bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative evaluation of China’s shipping decarbonization policies: The PMC-Index approach
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Chen Chen , Zheng Jian , Chen Liang
Published: February 2023

In the past few decades, ship-source GHG emissions have increased significantly. As a large country with massive shipping activities, China has issued a number of governmental policies with the aim of promoting shipping decarbonization and achieving green shipping. This study adopts the Policy Modeling Consistency Index (PMC-Index) approach to quantitatively evaluate 15 representative policies that are dealing with shipping decarbonization affairs to different extents in China. The results show that there exists an overall good policy consistency with the average PMC index scoring 6.26, but all studied policies have certain aspects to be further improved. By reviewing these representative policies, it reveals that more emphasis has been placed by the Chinese government on the development and application of clean energy, coordination between shipping and port industries, and governance mechanism for shipping decarbonisation issues. In addition, two policy implications are draw for policy-makers in China.
Annual variations of abundance, egg production rate, and community structure of Oithona similis in Jiaozhou Bay, the Yellow Sea
Authors: Yin Jiehui , Wu Cunchao , Shen Pingping , Wan Aiyong , Tao Zhencheng , Wang Yantao
Published: February 2023

In marine ecosystems, copepods (<2 mm) play an important role in the transfer of carbon and energy to higher tropic levels. Investigations in Jiaozhou Bay were carried out throughout 2017–2018, combined with laboratory experiments. The annual abundance, egg production, female prosome length, female carbon mass, clutch size, population composition, and development time of Oithona similis at different temperatures were analyzed to assess the life strategies and estimate generation cycles of O.similis in typical temperate regions at mid-latitude, represented by Jiaozhou Bay. The results include: 1) O.similis abundance was characterized by bimodal cycles, with the major peak in winter (1471 ± 206 ind/m³) and the minor peak in spring (740 ± 320 ind/m³). O. similis abundance was not subject to food limitations except in January. The lower abundance was mainly affected by temperature (>20°C) and low salinity in August. Predation from large size zooplankton was one of the factors in regulating O. similis abuncance in Jiaozhou Bay. 2) Over the year, the egg production rate, female prosome length, and female carbon mass of O.similis ranged from 0.03 ± 0.02 to 1.21 ± 0.25 eggs female-1d-1, 410 ± 6 to 472 ± 4 μm, and 0.35 ± 0.05 to 0.43 ± 0.03 μg c female-1 respectively. Female prosome length, and female carbon were both significantly negative correlated with temperature(P<0.01). The clutch size of O.similis varied between 4 and 21 and we did’t find it was related with other factors. 3) O. similis appeared at almost all stages, and reproduced continuously throughout the year. According to the sex ratio of O.similis and other factors, we inferred that O. similis produced four generations per year in Jiaozhou Bay.
Experimental investigation and optimization of lightweight concrete bricks developed using vermiculite
Authors: Ganasen Nakkeeran , Bahrami Alireza , Loganathan Krishnaraj
Published: February 2023

Concrete production requires a wealth of resources, including cement, aggregate, and water. Therefore, in terms of maintaining the Earth’s natural ecosystems and resources, researchers need to find sustainable and green methods for producing concrete. The focus of the current research was the use of potentially harmful alternative aggregates to manufacture lightweight concrete bricks. In this study, cement, fine aggregates, and vermiculite were the concrete brick mix components. Three trail mixes were followed by a replacement ratio of 60:40, 50:50, and 40:60 for fine aggregates in bricks. Statistical techniques were exerted to compare all the experimental results. Initially, regression analysis was employed to determine the precise relationship between the dependent and independent variables of the study. Furthermore, the compressive strength of the concrete brick was investigated. As a result of the research, vermiculite concrete bricks with the compressive strengths ranging from 3.2 to 5.9 N/mm2 and densities ranging from 1,780 to 2,142 kg/m3 were obtained. The regression model captured the variability of the data, as evidenced by the suitable R2 threshold (R2 > 0.9935). Subsequently, every property of the concrete bricks was predicted using regression, surface plots, main plots, and a heatmap. The conclusion of the study demonstrated that the models generated very effective results.
SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody responses following BNT162b2 vaccination in individuals with multiple sclerosis receiving different disease-modifying treatments
Authors: Lambrianides Anastasia , Deeba Elie , Hadjiagapiou Maria , Pantzaris Marios , Krashias George , Christodoulou Christina
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The study aims to evaluate the concentration of IgG antibodies against the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike1 protein (S1RBD) in BNT162b2- vaccinated relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) individuals receiving disease-modifying treatments (DMTs).

Methods

Serum from 126 RRMS volunteers was collected 3 months after the administration of the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 vaccine. Additional samples were analyzed after the administration of the booster dose in fingolimod- treated MS. Anti-S1RBD IgG antibody concentrations were quantified using the ABBOTT SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant assay.

Results

Anti-S1RBD IgG antibody concentrations in RRMS individuals receiving natalizumab, interferons, teriflunomide, and dimethyl fumarate showed no significant difference to those in healthy controls. However, fingolimod-treated MS individuals showed a marked inability to produce SARS-CoV-2- specific antibodies (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, a booster dose was not able to elicit the production of IgG antibodies in a large portion of matched individuals.

Discussion

A possible explanation for the altered immune response in fingolimod- treated MS individuals could be due to the medication inhibiting the circulation of lymphocytes, and possibly in turn inhibiting antibody production. Overall, patients on DMTs are generally of no disadvantage toward mounting an immune response against the vaccine. Nevertheless, further studies require evaluating non-humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2 following vaccination, as well as the suitability of such vaccinations on patients treated with fingolimod.
A clinical study of C arm-guided selective spinal nerve block combined with low-temperature plasma radiofrequency ablation of dorsal root ganglion in the treatment of zoster-related neuralgia
Authors: Zhang Zhen-Wu , Zhao Yan , Du Tian-Yi , Zhang Juan , Wu Qiong , Wang Zhe-Yin
Published: February 2023

Background

This study evaluated the analgesic efficacy and psychological response of low-temperature plasma ablation of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) combined with selective spinal nerve block in patients with acute or subacute zoster-related neuralgia (ZRN).

Methods

Totally 90 ZRN patients were randomly and evenly divided into three groups. Treatment was given to Group A using C arm-guided selective spinal nerve block (C-SSVB), Group B using C-SSVB and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF), and Group C using C-SSVB and low-temperature plasma ablation of the DRG. The outcomes were examined using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Anxiety and depression of patients were evaluated using the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS). Quality of life was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and postoperative Satisfaction scale. In addition, data on adverse events and medication usage rates were collected.

Results

The 90 patients were eligible for this study. The three treatments reduced VAS scores with no significant difference between groups A and B at the same time points; however, group B tended to have numerically lower VAS scores. Comparatively, group C had significantly reduced VAS scores on day 1 and 1 month after treatment compared with the other two groups. In terms of the decreasing SAS, SDS and PSQI scores, all the three treatments improved the anxiety, depression and sleep quality of the patients. In addition, significant alleviation in anxiety was found in group C compared with group A at all- time points. However, there was no statistically significant difference among the three groups in treatment-related adverse events that mainly focused on puncture pain at the surgical-site, skin numbness and medication usage rates.

Conclusions

C-SSVB and LTPRA of DRG will be considered as a promising treatment option for ZRN patients if those results can be confirmed after further validation.
Rise and metabolic roles of Vibrio during the fermentation of crab paste
Authors: Xiong Tian-Han , Shi Ce , Mu Chang-Kao , Wang Chun-Lin , Ye Yang-Fang
Published: February 2023

Microbial community may systematically promote the development of fermentation process of foods. Traditional fermentation is a spontaneous natural process that determines a unique nutritional characteristic of crab paste of Portunus trituberculatus, However, rare information is available regarding the development pattern and metabolic role of bacterial community during the fermentation of crab paste. Here, using a 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing technology, we investigated dynamics of bacterial community and its relationship with metabolites during the fermentation of crab paste. The results showed that bacterial community changed dynamically with the fermentation of crab paste which highlighted by consistently decreased α-diversity and overwhelming dominance of Vibrio at the later days of fermentation. Vibrio had a positive correlation with trimethylamine, hypoxanthine, formate, and alanine while a negative correlation with inosine and adenosine diphosphate. In contrast, most of other bacterial indicators had a reverse correlation with these metabolites. Moreover, Vibrio presented an improved function potential in the formation of the significantly increased metabolites. These findings demonstrate that the inexorable rise of Vibrio not only drives the indicator OTUs turnover in the bacterial community but also has incriminated the quality of crab paste from fresh to perished.
Case report: Transcatheter arterial embolization in a newborn with cervical rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma and Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon
Authors: Peng Ying-Hsuan , Lin Ming-Chih , Liu Wei-Li , Jan Sheng-Ling
Published: February 2023

Congenital hemangiomas (CHs) are rare vascular tumors and do not exhibit progressive postnatal growth. The incidence is less than 3% of all hemangiomas. Most CHs have a favorable prognosis; however, the Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon (KMP) is a rare but life-threatening complication in CHs that requires aggressive treatment. Medical treatments with corticosteroids and interferon have been suggested. Surgical resection can be considered for the treatment of complicated CHs in medically resistant lesions. Vascular embolization could be an alternative method if surgery is not considered feasible. Herein, we report a case of a 9-day-old newborn who underwent arterial embolization for a CH with KMP, combined with sirolimus treatment, and the outcome was favorable. The hemangioma completely regressed by 3 months and rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma (RICH) was diagnosed. Our successful experience with treating RICH associated with KMP revealed that RICH can have potentially serious complications although they usually resolve rapidly after birth without treatment. Surgical resection is considered to be the standard method for the treatment of medically resistant vascular tumors, but it is difficult to perform during the active phase of KMP due to acute bleeding and severe coagulopathy. Arterial embolization is feasible and can be used as an alternative to surgical resection, even in small babies.
Resveratrol attenuates staphylococcal enterotoxin B-activated immune cell metabolism via upregulation of miR-100 and suppression of mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Alghetaa Hasan , Mohammed Amira , Singh Narendra , Wilson Kiesha , Cai Goushuai , Putluri Nagireddy , Nagarkatti Mitzi , Nagarkatti Prakash
Published: February 2023

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is triggered by a variety of insults, such as bacterial and viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, leading to high mortality. In the murine model of ARDS induced by Staphylococcal enterotoxin-B (SEB), our previous studies showed that while SEB triggered 100% mortality, treatment with Resveratrol (RES) completely prevented such mortality by attenuating inflammation in the lungs. In the current study, we investigated the metabolic profile of SEB-activated immune cells in the lungs following treatment with RES. RES-treated mice had higher expression of miR-100 in the lung mononuclear cells (MNCs), which targeted mTOR, leading to its decreased expression. Also, Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA seq) unveiled the decreased expression of mTOR in a variety of immune cells in the lungs. There was also an increase in glycolytic and mitochondrial respiration in the cells from SEB + VEH group in comparison with SEB + RES group. Together these data suggested that RES alters the metabolic reprogramming of SEB-activated immune cells, through suppression of mTOR activation and its down- and upstream effects on energy metabolism. Also, miR-100 could serve as novel potential therapeutic molecule in the amelioration of ARDS.
Natural flavonoids derived from herbal medicines are potential anti-atherogenic agents by inhibiting oxidative stress in endothelial cells
Authors: Li Ruo-Lan , Wang Ling-Yu , Duan Hu-Xinyue , Qian Die , Zhang Qing , He Li-Sha , Li Xue-Ping
Published: February 2023

As the common pathological basis of various cardiovascular diseases, the morbidity and mortality of atherosclerosis (AS) have increased in recent years. Unfortunately, there are still many problems in the treatment of AS, and the prevention and treatment of the disease is not ideal. Up to now, the occurrence and development of AS can roughly include endothelial cell dysfunction, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, inflammation, foam cell production, and neoangiogenesis. Among them, endothelial dysfunction, as an early event of AS, plays a particularly important role in promoting the development of AS. In addition, oxidative stress occurs throughout the causes of endothelial dysfunction. Some previous studies have shown that flavonoids derived from herbal medicines are typical secondary metabolites. Due to its structural presence of multiple active hydroxyl groups, it is able to exert antioxidant activity in diseases. Therefore, in this review, we will search PubMed, Web of Science, Elesvier, Wliey, Springer for relevant literature, focusing on flavonoids extracted from herbal medicines, and summarizing how they can prevent endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting oxidative stress. Meanwhile, in our study, we found that flavonoid represented by quercetin and naringenin showed superior protective effects both in vivo and in vitro, suggesting the potential of flavonoid compounds in the treatment of AS.
Construction of quaternary quantum error-correcting codes via orthogonal arrays
Authors: Pang Shanqi , Yang Fuyuan , Yan Rong , Du Jiao , Wang Tianyin
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a method based on orthogonal arrays of constructing pure quaternary quantum error-correcting codes. As an application of the method, some infinite classes of quantum error-correcting codes with distances 2, 3, and 4 can be obtained. Moreover, the infinite class of quantum codes with distance 2 is optimal. The advantage of our method also lies in the fact that the quantum codes we obtain have less items for a basis quantum state than existing ones.
Post-translational palmitoylation of metabolic proteins
Authors: Dennis Kaitlyn M. J. H. , Heather Lisa C.
Published: February 2023

Numerous cellular proteins are post-translationally modified by addition of a lipid group to their structure, which dynamically influences the proteome by increasing hydrophobicity of proteins often impacting protein conformation, localization, stability, and binding affinity. These lipid modifications include myristoylation and palmitoylation. Palmitoylation involves a 16-carbon saturated fatty acyl chain being covalently linked to a cysteine thiol through a thioester bond. Palmitoylation is unique within this group of modifications, as the addition of the palmitoyl group is reversible and enzyme driven, rapidly affecting protein targeting, stability and subcellular trafficking. The palmitoylation reaction is catalyzed by a large family of Asp-His-His-Cys (DHHCs) motif-containing palmitoyl acyltransferases, while the reverse reaction is catalyzed by acyl-protein thioesterases (APTs), that remove the acyl chain. Palmitoyl-CoA serves an important dual purpose as it is not only a key metabolite fueling energy metabolism, but is also a substrate for this PTM. In this review, we discuss protein palmitoylation in regulating substrate metabolism, focusing on membrane transport proteins and kinases that participate in substrate uptake into the cell. We then explore the palmitoylation of mitochondrial proteins and the palmitoylation regulatory enzymes, a less explored field for potential lipid metabolic regulation.
ASSVd infection inhibits the vegetative growth of apple trees by affecting leaf metabolism
Authors: Li Guofang , Li Jinghong , Zhang He , Li Jiuyang , Jia Linguang , Zhou Shiwei , Wang Yanan , Sun Jianshe , Tan Ming , Shao Jianzhu
Published: February 2023

Apple scar skin viroid (ASSVd) can infect apple trees and cause scar skin symptoms. However, the associated physiological mechanisms are unclear in young saplings. In this study, ASSVd-infected and control ‘Odysso’ and ‘Tonami’ apple saplings were examined to clarify the effects of ASSVd on apple tree growth and physiological characteristics as well as the leaf metabolome. The results indicated that leaf ASSVd contents increased significantly after grafting and remained high in the second year. Leaf size, tree height, stem diameter, branch length, and leaf photosynthetic efficiency decreased significantly in viroid-infected saplings. In response to the ASSVd infection, the chlorophyll a and b contents decreased significantly in ‘Odysso’, but were unchanged in ‘Tonami’. Moreover, the N, P, K, Fe, Mn, and Ca contents decreased significantly in the leaves of viroid-infected ‘Odysso’ or ‘Tonami’. Similarly, the CAT and POD contents decreased significantly in the viroid-infected saplings, but the SOD content increased in the viroid-infected ‘Tonami’ saplings. A total of 15 and 40 differentially abundant metabolites were respectively identified in the metabolome analyses of ‘Odysso’ and ‘Tonami’ leaves. Specifically, in the viroid-infected ‘Odysso’ and ‘Tonami’ samples, the L-2-aminobutyric acid, 6″-O-malonyldaidzin, and D-xylose contents increased, while the coumarin content decreased. These metabolites are related to the biosynthesis of isoflavonoids and phenylpropanoids as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids. These results imply that ASSVd affects apple sapling growth by affecting physiological characteristics and metabolism of apple leaves. The study data may be useful for future investigations on the physiological mechanisms underlying apple tree responses to ASSVd.
Algorithmic management, preferences for autonomy/security and gig-workers' wellbeing: A matter of fit?
Authors: Felix Bruno , Dourado Diego , Nossa Valcemiro
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study was to understand how gig-workers interpret the effects of their laboral activity on their wellbeing. We developed a grounded theory based on interviews with 57 Brazilian gig-workers. The results show that (1) workers and gig-work organizations have preferences for work relationships with more autonomy or security; (2) when there is a congruence of preferences, the worker experiences greater wellbeing, and when the preferences diverge, there are episodes of preference violations that, when repeated, reduce worker wellbeing; and (3) however, not everything is a matter of fit: when both individuals and organizations have the same preference (for example, for more autonomy and less security), worker wellbeing may be vulnerable to abuse, for example, in terms of an unsustainable workload. Our study draws attention to an integrated discussion of the benefits and harms of algorithmic management, which allows overcoming a polarized view in which it would be seen only as beneficial or harmful to workers.
The effect of subliminal priming on team trust: The mediating role of perceived trustworthiness
Authors: Cai Jie , Wu Rongxiu , Zhang Jingyu , Sun Xianghong
Published: February 2023

The present study aimed to explore the effect of subliminal priming on team trust and the mechanism through the mediating role of perceived trustworthiness. A total of 144 participants were asked to complete a lexical decision task that was embedded with the “trust” or “suspicion” Chinese words as the subliminal stimuli. Then, they played a public good game and evaluated the perceived trustworthiness of the team. The results of the study showed that subliminal stimuli had a significant effect on team trust [β = –0.99, 95% CI = (−1.64, −0.33)]. Perceived trustworthiness was found to have a significant mediating effect between the priming condition and team trust [β = −0.35, 95% CI = (−0.72, −0.02)]. The current study revealed the underlying mechanism through which subliminal priming techniques influence team trust and informed efforts by altering perceived trustworthiness.
Abnormal amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation values as a neuroimaging biomarker for major depressive disorder with suicidal attempts in adolescents: A resting-state fMRI and support vector machine analysis
Authors: Zhou Yang , Song Yu , Chen Cheng , Yan Shu , Chen Mo , Liu Tao
Published: February 2023

Objective

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with suicidal attempts (SAs) among adolescents, with suicide being the most common cause of mortality in this age group. This study explored the predictive utility of support vector machine (SVM)-based analyses of amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) results as a neuroimaging biomarker for aiding the diagnosis of MDD with SA in adolescents.

Methods

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) analyses of 71 first-episode, drug-naive adolescent MDD patients with SA and 54 healthy control individuals were conducted. ALFF and SVM methods were used to analyze the imaging data.

Results

Relative to healthy control individuals, adolescent MDD patients with a history of SAs showed reduced ALFF values in the bilateral medial superior frontal gyrus (mSFG) and bilateral precuneus. These lower ALFF values were also negatively correlated with child depression inventory (CDI) scores while reduced bilateral precuneus ALFF values were negatively correlated with Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire Junior (SIQ-JR) scores. SVM analyses showed that reduced ALFF values in the bilateral mSFG and bilateral precuneus had diagnostic accuracy levels of 76.8% (96/125) and 82.4% (103/125), respectively.

Conclusion

Adolescent MDD patients with a history of SA exhibited abnormal ALFF. The identified abnormalities in specific brain regions may be involved in the pathogenesis of this condition and may help identify at-risk adolescents. Specifically, reductions in the ALFF in the bilateral mSFG and bilateral precuneus may be indicative of MDD and SA in adolescent patients.
Gauging response time distributions to examine the effect of facial expression inversion
Authors: Bimler David L. , Paramei Galina V.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

We used images of facial expressions (FEs) of emotion in a speeded Same/Different task to examine (i) distributional characteristics of response times (RTs) in relation to inter-stimulus similarity and (ii) the impact of inversion on FE processing.

Methods

Stimuli were seven emotion prototypes, posed by one male and one female, and eight intermediate morphs. Image pairs (N = 225) were presented for 500 ms, upright or inverted, in a block design, each 100 times.

Results

For both upright and inverted FEs, RTs were a non-monotonic function: median values were longest for stimulus pairs of intermediate similarity, decreasing for both more-dissimilar and more-similar pairs. RTs of “Same” and “Different” judgments followed ex-Gaussian distributions. The non-monotonicity is interpreted within a dual-process decision model framework as reflecting the infrequency of identical pairs, shifting the balance between the Same and Different processes. The effect of stimulus inversion was gauged by comparing RT-based multidimensional scaling solutions for the two presentation modes. Solutions for upright and inverted FEs showed little difference, with both displaying some evidence of categorical perception. The same features appeared in hierarchical clustering solutions.

Discussion

This outcome replicates and reinforces the solutions derived from accuracy of “Different” responses reported in our earlier companion paper. We attribute this lack of inversion effect to the brief exposure time, allowing low-level visual processing to dominate Same/Different decisions while elevating early featural analysis, which is insensitive to face orientation but enables initial positive/negative valence categorization of FEs.
Slower tempo makes worse performance? The effect of musical tempo on cognitive processing speed
Authors: Lin Hung-Ming , Kuo Su-Hui , Mai Thao Phuong
Published: February 2023

The effects of musical tempo on cognitive processing speed were investigated, and the mediating effect of arousal was empirically tested. In an experiment, participants were divided into fast tempo, slow tempo, and no-music groups and completed three cognitive processing speed tests measuring motor speed, visuospatial processing speed, and linguistic processing speed. The results indicated a significant effect of musical tempo on processing speed and task performance in all three tasks. The slow-tempo group exhibited slower processing speed and worse performance than the no-music group in all three tasks. The fast tempo group displayed no significant difference in processing speed or performance compared with the no-music group. In the linguistic processing task, those who listened to slow-tempo music had better accuracy than those in the other conditions. Arousal did not mediate the relationship between musical tempo and cognitive processing speed.
Psychomotor performances relevant for driving under the combined effect of ethanol and synthetic cannabinoids: A systematic review
Authors: Giorgetti Arianna , Orazietti Vasco , Busardò Francesco Paolo , Giorgetti Raffaele
Published: February 2023

Objective

To determine whether the acute co-consumption of ethanol and synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) increases the risk of a motor vehicle collision and affects the psychomotor performances relevant for driving.

Design

Systematic review of the literature.

Data sources

Electronic searches were performed in two databases, unrestricted by year, with previously set method and criteria. Search, inclusion and data extraction were performed by two blind authors.

Results

Twenty articles were included, amounting to 31 cases of SCs-ethanol co-consumption. The impairment of psychomotor functions varied widely between studies, ranging from no reported disabilities to severe unconsciousness. Overall, a dose-effect relationship could not be observed.

Conclusion

Despite the biases and limitations of the literature studies, it seems likely that the co-consumption poses an increased risk for driving. The drugs might exert a synergistic effect on the central nervous system depression, as well as on aggressiveness and mood alterations. However, more research is needed on the topic.
Utilization of sexual and reproductive health services among young people in refugee settings in Uganda
Authors: Bukuluki Paul Mukisa Wako , Kisaakye Peter , Wandiembe Symon Peter , Kiwujja Victor , Kajungu Christine , Mugwanya Wilberforce , Nabakooza Shakira , Anyii Cyprian , Kaikai Fiona
Published: February 2023

There is a considerable high level of unmet need for reproductive health services among refugees. Yet, there is limited research about the provision and utilization of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services among young people in refugee settings. Drawing on a sample of 575 young refugees (15–24 years) from a cross-sectional survey, this study aims to fill this gap by identifying the factors associated with SRH utilization among young people living in refugee settings in Northern Uganda. The utilization of SRH services at the health facilities was significantly different between female and male young people after adjusting for all other variables (aOR = 2.46, 95% CI, 1.58, 3.84). Young people who were not living in a marital union (aOR = 0.38, 95% CI, 0.20, 0.71), or held inequitable gender norms about services (aOR = 0.28, 95% CI, 0.12, 0.66) had about a third of the odds of utilizing SRH services. Young women with comprehensive knowledge about contraception, modern contraceptives, and HIV and STI prevention, had more than twice the odds of utilizing SRH services (aOR = 2.23, 95% CI, 2.67, 6.90). There is need to integrate social norm measurements and social norm change strategies in strategies for promoting utilization of SRH services among refugees in low-income countries especially in Uganda
Surgical decision-making for individuals with differences of sex development: Stakeholders’ views
Authors: Weidler Erica M. , Gardner Melissa , Suorsa-Johnson Kristina I. , Schafer-Kalkhoff Tara , Rutter Meilan M. , Sandberg David E. , van Leeuwen Kathleen
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Advocacy and human rights organizations have called for a moratorium on elective surgical procedures until the patient is able to fully participate in the decision-making process. Due to the controversial nature surrounding surgery in differences of sex development (DSD) care, we aimed to assess the factors that teens and adults with DSD, parents, healthcare providers and other allied professionals consider pertinent to complex surgical decisions in DSD.

Methods

Stakeholders (n=110) in DSD care participated in semi-structured interviews exploring features and potential determinants of successful healthcare outcomes. Audio-recordings were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using qualitative data software. Codes for “Process of Decision-Making” and “Successful Outcome–Surgery/Appearance/Function” were further searched using keywords “surgery,” “procedure,” and “timing.”

Results

Several themes were identified: 1) The nature or type of the decision being made; 2) Who should be involved in the decision-making process; 3) Timing of conversations about surgery; 4) Barriers to decision-making surrounding surgery; 5) The elements of surgical decision-making; and 6) The optimal approach to surgical decision-making. Many stakeholders believed children and adolescents with DSD should be involved in the process as developmentally appropriate.

Conclusion

DSD include a wide range of diagnoses, some of which may require urogenital reconstruction to relieve obstruction, achieve continence, and/or address other anatomical differences whether cosmetic or functional. Adolescents and adults with DSD desired autonomy and to be part of the decision-making process. Parents were divided in their opinion of who should be involved in making elective surgical decisions: the child or parents as proxy medical decision-makers. Providers and other professionals stressed the importance of process and education around surgical decisions. Ongoing research examines how decision-makers evaluate tradeoffs associated with decision options.
Standard approach and future perspective for the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia from a health-economics point of view: the role of transperineal laser ablation
Authors: Lorenzoni Valentina , Palla Ilaria , Manenti Guglielmo , Ditonno Pasquale , de Reijke Theo M. , Turchetti Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common diagnosis among the ageing male population over 60 years and it is associated with the development of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS): dysuria, nocturia, increased frequency of urination, etc. LUTS negatively affect the patient’s daily activities and the quality of life. Patients with severe and persisting symptoms, not responding to pharmacological therapy, are candidates for surgical intervention. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) has been the gold standard for surgical approach despite it can be associated with significant complications. Indeed, laser vaporization or enucleation are today the most broadly used surgical techniques and other minimally invasive surgical therapies (MISTs) have been introduced to reduce some complications during- and post-surgery. Moreover, a new micro-invasive approach for LUTS is represented by EchoLaser SoracteLite™ transperineal laser ablation (TPLA), an innovative, safe and feasible approach that can be performed under local anaesthesia and in an outpatient setting.

Objective

The paper aims to analyse and discuss the economic implications of standard surgical techniques and innovative approaches with a focus on TPLA thought a literature review.

Results

The literature review highlights that at present there are few studies related to the economic implications of surgical therapies for LUTS. Preliminary results show that the TPLA is a promising technique in terms of clinical and economic benefit for the treatment of obstructive LUTS. Furthermore, TPLA can be performed in an outpatient setting implying an advantage from an economic and also organizational point of view, in particular in a health emergency situation.

Conclusions

Economic literature on minimally invasive techniques and surgical approaches for the treatment of BPH is still lacking. Multicentre and long-term economic studies are needed to assess the estimated disease burden. However, direct and indirect costs associated with TPLA are minimized vs TURP and laser vaporization/enucleation.
Underground Heroes: Plants and Microbes Partner to Shape Our World
Authors: Berrios Louis , Van Nuland Michael E. , Alvarez Manjarrez Julieta , Yeam Jay , Saarunya Clarke Geetha , Clarke Aaron , Peay Kabir G.
Published: February 2023

Did you know that microbes and plants can help each other survive? Microbes—like bacteria and fungi, for example—can help plants find food and water and can even make them healthier during stressful times. In return, plants give microbes food and a place to live. The world as we know it would not exist without plants, microbes, and their partnerships. Unfortunately, changes to climate will also change our environments. Therefore, studying how plants and microbes partner will help us predict environmental changes to our planet and its inhabitants. In this article, we discuss how microbes and plants partner to support life on Earth.
The free bilamellar autograft (FBA) procedure: A comprehensive case series of an alternative surgical approach to reconstruction of large eyelid defects
Authors: McDonald Heather M. , McDonald Katherine A. , McDonald Hector
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The free bilamellar autograft (FBA) procedure involves harvesting a free, full-thickness section of eyelid tissue from one of the patient’s healthy eyelids to reconstruct a large defect of the involved eyelid. No vascular augmentation is employed. The purpose of this study was to determine the structural and cosmetic results of this procedure.

Methods

A case series was performed, looking at patients who underwent the FBA procedure for large, full-thickness eyelid defects (>50% eyelid length) between 2009 and 2020 at a single oculoplastic surgical centre. Basal cell carcinomas most frequently met criteria for the procedure. OHSN-REB waived ethics approval. All surgeries were performed by one surgeon. A single operation, with surgical steps reported in detail, was completed with follow-up documentation at ideally 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. The mean follow-up period was 28 months.

Results

Thirty-one patients (17 males, 14 females, mean age 78-years-old) were included in the case series. Comorbidities included diabetes and smoking. Most patients had known basal cell carcinomas removed from the upper or lower eyelid. The mean widths of the recipient and donor sites were 18.8 and 11.5 mm, respectively. All 31 FBA surgeries resulted in structurally functional, cosmetically pleasing, and viable eyelids. Six patients developed minor graft dehiscence, 3 developed an ectropion, and 1 developed mild superficial graft necrosis secondary to frostbite, which fully recovered. Three healing phases were identified.

Conclusion

This case series adds to the currently sparse data on the free bilamellar autograft procedure. The surgical technique is clearly articulated and illustrated. The FBA procedure is a simple and efficient alternative to current surgical techniques in the reconstruction of full-thickness upper and lower eyelid defects. The FBA provides functional and cosmetic success, despite the absence of an intact blood supply, with decreased operative time and faster recovery.
Clinical features and independent predictors of postoperative refractory trauma to anal fistula combined with T2DM: A propensity score-matched analysis-retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tang Xiao , He Taohong , Li Xinyi , Liu Ya , Wu Yuqi , You Gehang , Li Jie , Yun Yu , Wu Lei , Li Li , Kang Jian
Published: February 2023

Background

Refractory wound is a common postoperative complication in anal fistula surgery, when combined with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) it presents a slower recovery time and more complex wound physiology. The study aims to investigate factors associated with wound healing in patients with T2DM.

Materials and methods

365 T2DM patients who underwent anal fistula surgery at our institution were recruited from June 2017 to May 2022. Through propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis, multivariate logistic regression analysis was applied to determine independent risk factors affecting wound healing.

Results

122 pairs of patients with no significant differences were successfully established in matched variables. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that uric acid (OR: 1.008, 95% CI: 1.002–1.015, p = 0.012), maximal fasting blood glucose (FBG) (OR: 1.489, 95% CI: 1.028–2.157, p = 0.035) and random intravenous blood glucose (OR: 1.130, 95% CI: 1.008–1.267, p = 0.037) elevation and the incision at 5 o’clock under the lithotomy position (OR: 3.510, 95% CI: 1.214–10.146, p = 0.020) were independent risk factors for impeding wound healing. However, neutrophil percentage fluctuating within the normal range can be considered as an independent protective factor (OR: 0.906, 95% CI: 0.856–0.958, p = 0.001). After executing the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, it was found that the maximum FBG expressed the largest under curve area (AUC), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) showed the strongest sensitivity at the critical value and maximum postprandial blood glucose (PBG) had the highest specificity at the critical value. To promote high-quality healing of anal wounds in diabetic patients, clinicians should not only pay attention to surgical procedures but also take above-mentioned indicators into consideration.
Research progress and limitation analysis of RNA interference in Haemonchus contortus in China
Authors: Hou Bin , Hai Ying , Buyin Buhe , Hasi Surong
Published: February 2023

Haemonchus contortus is a highly pathogenic and economically important parasitic nematode that affects small ruminants worldwide. While omics studies hold great promise, there are fewer research tools available for analyzing subsequent gene function studies. RNA interference (RNAi) technology offers a solution to this problem, as it especially allows for the knockout or shutting off of the expression of specific genes. As a result, RNAi technology has been widely used to explore gene function and disease treatment research. In this study, we reviewed the latest advancements in RNAi research on Haemonchus contortus in China, with the aim of providing a reference for the identification of key genes involved in growth and development, anthelmintic resistance, diagnostic markers, and diagnostic drug targets for the treatment of Haemonchus contortus.
Transfer of passive immunity and survival in Jersey heifer calves fed heat-treated pooled colostrum
Authors: Bandlow Katherine S. , King Ailbhe , Kennicutt Kelsie C. , Brody Shoshana , Chigerwe Munashe
Published: February 2023

Acquisition of adequate transfer of passive immunity (ATPI) by calves depends on the absorption of sufficient mass of colostral immunoglobulin G (IgG). Several studies report conflicting evidence regarding the ability of feeding pooled colostrum to achieve ATPI. Pooling colostrum is practical and efficient for some dairies, and recommendations are required to prevent failure of transfer of passive immunity (FTPI) in calves following pooling. This study aimed to determine the effect of pooling colostrum on serum IgG concentrations, FTPI, and preweaning mortality in calves. A prospective study was performed on two conventional Jersey dairy farms where heat treatment of colostrum occurred in the same colostrum processing kitchen. Four to 10 cows contributed to colostrum pools. A sample of the colostrum pool fed to the calves and serum from calves at 24–72 h was collected for IgG concentration determination by single radial immunodiffusion assay. Multivariable and logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate factors that predicated serum IgG concentrations and the probability of FTPI, respectively. A Cox proportional hazard model analysis was performed to determine risk factors for mortality over the preweaning period. A total of 164 calves fed 28 colostrum pools were enrolled. Birth weight, number of colostrum feedings and pool IgG concentrations were significant predictors of calf serum IgG concentrations at 24–72 h, whereas the number of colostrum feedings and age at bleeding to determine passive transfer status were not significant predictors of calf serum IgG concentrations at 24–72 h. The prevalence of FTPI was 4.9%. Birth weight, pool IgG concentrations, number of colostrum feedings, and age at bleeding to check for passive transfer status were not significant predictors of the probability of FTPI at 24–72 h. The incidence of mortality was 4.3%. Passive transfer status was not a predictor of mortality. Our study demonstrates the effect of pooling colostrum on serum IgG concentrations even in herds where colostrum with higher median colostrum IgG concentrations is fed to calves. The results emphasize the recommendations to assess pooled colostrum IgG concentrations before feeding calves.
The life cycle of Dermacentor nuttalli from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau under laboratory conditions and detection of spotted fever group Rickettsia spp.
Authors: Ma Hejia , Ai Jingkai , Kang Ming , Li Jixu , Sun Yali
Published: February 2023

Dermacentor nuttalli has been a focus of study because tick-borne pathogens have been widely identified in this tick from northern and southwestern China. The aim of this study was to characterize the life cycle of D. nuttalli under laboratory conditions and to detect spotted fever group (SFG) Rickettsia in the midgut and salivary glands of both field-collected and first laboratory generation adults. D. nuttalli ticks were collected in the field on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau from March to April 2021 and their life cycle was studied under laboratory conditions. Tick identify was molecularly confirmed, and SFG Rickettsia were detected in the midgut and salivary glands of males and females by PCR targeting different rickettsial genes. The results showed that the life cycle of D. nuttalli under laboratory conditions was completed in an average of 86.1 days. High positivity of Rickettsia spp. was detected in the midgut and salivary glands of both males (92.0%) and females (93.0%) of field-collected D. nuttalli ticks. However, a relatively lower positivity (4.0–6.0%) was detected in first laboratory generation adults. Furthermore, sequencing analysis showed that the Rickettsia sequences obtained in this study shared 98.6 to 100% nucleotide identity with Rickettsia slovaca and Rickettsia raoultii isolated from Dermacentor spp. in China. Phylogenetic analysis of Rickettsia spp. based on the gltA, ompA, ompB and sca4 genes revealed that the Rickettsia sequences obtained could be classified as belonging to R. slovaca and R. raoultii clades. This study described for the first time the life cycle of D. nuttalli from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau under laboratory conditions. Two species of SFG Rickettsia were detected in the midgut and salivary glands of males and females in both field-collected and first laboratory-generation adults of D. nuttalli. Our study provides new insights into pathogen detection in ticks in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and the relationships among hosts, ticks, and pathogens.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product improves robustness of equine gut microbiome upon stress
Authors: Ganda Erika , Chakrabarti Anirikh , Sardi Maria I. , Tench Melissa , Kozlowicz Briana K. , Norton Sharon A. , Warren Lori K. , Khafipour Ehsan
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Nutritional and environmental stressors can disturb the gut microbiome of horses which may ultimately decrease their health and performance. We hypothesized that supplementation with a yeast-derived postbiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product-SCFP) would benefit horses undergoing an established model of stress due to prolonged transportation.

Methods

Quarter horses (n = 20) were blocked based on sex, age (22 ± 3 mo) and body weight (439 ± 3 kg) and randomized to receive either a basal diet of 60% hay and 40% concentrate (CON) or the basal diet supplemented with 21 g/d Diamond V TruEquine C (SCFP; Diamond V, Cedar Rapids, IA) for 60 days. On day 57, horses were tethered with their heads elevated 35cm above wither height for 12 h to induce mild upper respiratory tract inflammation. Fecal samples were collected at days 0, 28, and 56 before induction of stress, and at 0, 12, 24, and 72 h post-stress and subjected to DNA extraction and Nanopore shotgun metagenomics. Within sample (alpha) diversity was evaluated by fitting a linear model and between sample (beta) diversity was tested with permutational ANOVA.

Results

The SCFP stabilized alpha diversity across all time points, whereas CON horses had more fluctuation (P < 0.05) at 12, 24, and 72 h post-challenge compared to d 56. A significant difference between CON and SCFP was observed at 0 and 12 h. There was no difference in beta-diversity between SCFP and CON on d 56.

Discussion

Taken together, these observations led us to conclude that treatment with SCFP resulted in more robust and stable microbial profiles in horses after stress challenge.