bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: Diagnosis of a patient with Sifrim–Hitz–Weiss syndrome, development and epileptic encephalopathy-14, and medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Zeka Naim , Zeka Eris , Zhubi Esra , Hoxha Ilir
Published: September 2023

Background

It is generally recognized that genetic metabolic disorders can result in neurological symptoms such as seizures, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. Heterogeneous clinical presentations make the diagnosis challenging.

Case presentation

In this case report, we present a unique and complex genetic disorder observed in a female patient who exhibited three pathogenic gene variants in the KCNT1, ACADM, and CHD4 genes. The convergence of these variants resulted in a multifaceted clinical presentation characterized by severe seizures of combined focal and generalized onset, metabolic dysfunction, and neurodevelopmental abnormalities. The identification and functional characterization of these gene variants shed light on the intricate interplay between these genes and the patient's phenotype. EEG revealed an epileptiform abnormality which presented in the inter-ictal period from the left frontal-central area and in the ictal period from the left mid-temporal area. The brain MRI revealed volume loss in the posterior periventricular area and parietal parenchyma, myelin destruction with no sign of hypoxic involvement, and left dominant enlargement of the lateral ventricles secondary to loss of central parenchyma. The patient was diagnosed through exome sequencing with Sifrim–Hitz–Weiss syndrome, development and epileptic encephalopathy-14, and medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency. An antiseizure medication regimen with valproic acid, levetiracetam, phenobarbital, and clonazepam was initiated. However, this led to only partial control of the seizures.

Conclusion

Clinical follow-up of the patient will further define the clinical spectrum of KCNT1, ACADM, and CHD4 gene variants. It will also determine the long-term efficacy of the treatment of seizures and the development of precision medicine for epilepsy syndromes due to gain-of-function variants. Special emphasis should be put on the role and importance of large-scale genomic testing in understanding and diagnosing complex phenotypes and atypical epileptic syndromes.
A quick algorithmic review on management of viral infectious diseases in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Moghadamnia Marjan , Eshaghi Hamid , Alimadadi Hosein , Dashti-Khavidaki Simin
Published: September 2023

Pediatric solid organ transplant is a life-saving procedure for children with end-stage organ failure. Viral infections are a common complication following pediatric solid organ transplantation (SOT), which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Pediatric solid organ transplant recipients are at an increased risk of viral infections due to their immunosuppressed state. The most commonly encountered viruses include cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), adenoviruses, and BK polyomavirus. Prevention strategies include vaccination prior to transplantation, post-transplant prophylaxis with antiviral agents, and preemptive therapy. Treatment options vary depending on the virus and may include antiviral therapy and sometimes immunosuppression modification. This review provides a Quick Algorithmic overview of prevention and treatment strategies for viral infectious diseases in pediatric solid organ transplant recipient.
Network pharmacology combined with molecular docking and in vitro verification reveals the therapeutic potential of Delphinium roylei munz constituents on breast carcinoma
Authors: Mir Wajahat Rashid , Bhat Basharat Ahmad , Kumar Ashish , Dhiman Rohan , Alkhanani Mustfa , Almilaibary Abdullah , Dar Mohd Younis , Ganie Showkat Ahmad , Mir Manzoor Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Delphinium roylei Munz is an indigenous medicinal plant to India where its activity against cancer has not been previously investigated, and its specific interactions of bioactive compounds with vulnerable breast cancer drug targets remain largely unknown. Therefore, in the current study, we aimed to evaluate the anti-breast cancer activity of different extracts of D. roylei against breast cancer and deciphering the molecular mechanism by Network Pharmacology combined with Molecular Docking and in vitro verification. The experimental plant was extracted with various organic solvents according to their polarity index. Phytocompounds were identified by High resolution-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HR-LC/MS) technique, and SwissADME programme evaluated their physicochemical properties. Next, target(s) associated with the obtained bioactives or breast cancer-related targets were retrieved by public databases, and the Venn diagram selected the overlapping targets. The networks between overlapping targets and bioactive were visualized, constructed, and analyzed by STRING programme and Cytoscape software. Finally, we implemented a molecular docking test (MDT) using AutoDock Vina to explore key target(s) and compound(s). HR-LC/MS detected hundreds of phytocompounds, and few were accepted by Lipinski’s rules after virtual screening and therefore classified as drug-like compounds (DLCs). A total of 464 potential target genes were attained for the nine quantitative phytocompounds and using Gene Cards, OMIM and DisGeNET platforms, 12063 disease targets linked to breast cancer were retrieved. With Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment, a total of 20 signalling pathways were manifested, and a hub signalling pathway (PI3K-Akt signalling pathway), a key target (Akt1), and a key compound (8-Hydroxycoumarin) were selected among the 20 signalling pathways via molecular docking studies. The molecular docking investigation revealed that among the nine phytoconstituents, 8-hydroxycoumarin showed the best binding energy (−9.2 kcal/mol) with the Akt1 breast cancer target. 8-hydroxycoumarin followed all the ADME property prediction using SwissADME, and 100 nanoseconds (ns) MD simulations of 8-hydroxycoumarin complexes with Akt1 were found to be stable. Furthermore, D. roylei extracts also showed significant antioxidant and anticancer activity through in vitro studies. Our findings indicated for the first time that D. roylei extracts could be used in the treatment of BC.
The multiple functions of miR-574-5p in the neuroblastoma tumor microenvironment
Authors: Proestler Eva , Donzelli Julia , Nevermann Sheila , Breitwieser Kai , Koch Leon F. , Best Tatjana , Fauth Maria , Wickström Malin , Harter Patrick N. , Kogner Per , Lavieu Grégory , Larsson Karin , Saul Meike J.
Published: September 2023

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor in childhood and arises from neural crest cells of the developing sympathetic nervous system. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) has been identified as a key pro-inflammatory mediator of the tumor microenvironment (TME) that promotes neuroblastoma progression. We report that the interaction between the microRNA miR-574-5p and CUG-binding protein 1 (CUGBP1) induces the expression of microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase 1 (mPGES-1) in neuroblastoma cells, which contributes to PGE2 biosynthesis. PGE2 in turn specifically induces the sorting of miR-574-5p into small extracellular vesicles (sEV) in neuroblastoma cell lines. sEV are one of the major players in intercellular communication in the TME. We found that sEV-derived miR-574-5p has a paracrine function in neuroblastoma. It acts as a direct Toll-like receptor 7/8 (TLR7/8) ligand and induces α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in fibroblasts, contributing to fibroblast differentiation. This is particularly noteworthy as it has an opposite function to that in the TME of lung carcinoma, another PGE2 dependent tumor type. Here, sEV-derived miR-574-5p has an autokrine function that inhibits PGE2 biosynthesis in lung cancer cells. We report that the tetraspanin composition on the surface of sEV is associated with the function of sEV-derived miR-574-5p. This suggests that the vesicles do not only transport miRs, but also appear to influence their mode of action.
Anesthetic drug concentrations and placental transfer rate in fetus between term and preterm infants, twins, and singletons
Authors: Liu Hao , Miao Jing-Kun , Cai Meng , Gan Lin , Zhao Hui-Qing , Lei Xiao-Feng , Yu Jin
Published: September 2023

Objective: This study aims to determine the drug concentration of etomidate, remifentanil, and rocuronium bromide for general anesthesia in fetus as well as the placental transport rate between term and preterm delivery, twins, and singleton.

Study design: Sixty parturients with 72 fetuses undergoing cesarean section under general anesthesia were included. According to whether the fetus was a twin or premature, parturients were divided into Group I (term singleton), Group II (premature singleton), Group III (term twins), and Group IV (premature twins). The preoperative demographic characteristics and laboratory examination of parturients, hemodynamic indicators, the Apgar score of neonates at 1, 5, and 10 min after delivery and at specific assigned values, umbilical artery blood gas analysis results, neonatal weight, and resuscitative measures were recorded. Anesthetic drug concentrations in maternal arterial (MA), umbilical arterial (UA), and umbilical venous (UV) blood were detected by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS).

Result: No significant differences were observed in the concentrations of etomidate, remifentanil, and rocuronium bromide in MA, UV, and UA blood, or in the UV/MA and UA/UV ratios between term and preterm infants, twins, and singletons. Moreover, there was no variation in the anesthetic drug concentration among each pair of twins. Additionally, no correlation was found between the neonatal weight and the plasma concentrations of anesthetic drugs in UV and UA blood, except for remifentanil in UA blood.

Conclusion: Preterm or twin deliveries do not affect the neonatal concentration of etomidate, remifentanil, and rocuronium bromide used in general anesthesia for cesarean sections.

Clinical Trial Registration:www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2100046547
Insulin and the sebaceous gland function
Authors: Okoro Obumneme Emeka , Camera Emanuela , Flori Enrica , Ottaviani Monica
Published: September 2023

Insulin affects metabolic processes in different organs, including the skin. The sebaceous gland (SG) is an important appendage in the skin, which responds to insulin-mediated signals, either directly or through the insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) axis. Insulin cues are differently translated into the activation of metabolic processes depending on several factors, including glucose levels, receptor sensitivity, and sebocyte differentiation. The effects of diet on both the physiological function and pathological conditions of the SG have been linked to pathways activated by insulin and IGF-1. Experimental evidence and theoretical speculations support the association of insulin resistance with acne vulgaris, which is a major disorder of the SG. In this review, we examined the effects of insulin on the SG function and their implications in the pathogenesis of acne.
Integrated phenotyping of root and shoot growth dynamics in maize reveals specific interaction patterns in inbreds and hybrids and in response to drought
Authors: Shi Rongli , Seiler Christiane , Knoch Dominic , Junker Astrid , Altmann Thomas
Published: September 2023

In recent years, various automated methods for plant phenotyping addressing roots or shoots have been developed and corresponding platforms have been established to meet the diverse requirements of plant research and breeding. However, most platforms are only either able to phenotype shoots or roots of plants but not both simultaneously. This substantially limits the opportunities offered by a joint assessment of the growth and development dynamics of both organ systems, which are highly interdependent. In order to overcome these limitations, a root phenotyping installation was integrated into an existing automated non-invasive high-throughput shoot phenotyping platform. Thus, the amended platform is now capable of conducting high-throughput phenotyping at the whole-plant level, and it was used to assess the vegetative root and shoot growth dynamics of five maize inbred lines and four hybrids thereof, as well as the responses of five inbred lines to progressive drought stress. The results showed that hybrid vigour (heterosis) occurred simultaneously in roots and shoots and was detectable as early as 4 days after transplanting (4 DAT; i.e., 8 days after seed imbibition) for estimated plant height (EPH), total root length (TRL), and total root volume (TRV). On the other hand, growth dynamics responses to progressive drought were different in roots and shoots. While TRV was significantly reduced 10 days after the onset of the water deficit treatment, the estimated shoot biovolume was significantly reduced about 6 days later, and EPH showed a significant decrease even 2 days later (8 days later than TRV) compared with the control treatment. In contrast to TRV, TRL initially increased in the water deficit period and decreased much later (not earlier than 16 days after the start of the water deficit treatment) compared with the well-watered plants. This may indicate an initial response of the plants to water deficit by forming longer but thinner roots before growth was inhibited by the overall water deficit. The magnitude and the dynamics of the responses were genotype-dependent, as well as under the influence of the water consumption, which was related to plant size.
From genes to policy: mission-oriented governance of plant-breeding research and technologies
Authors: Gerullis Maria , Pieruschka Roland , Fahrner Sven , Hartl Lorenz , Schurr Ulrich , Heckelei Thomas
Published: September 2023

Mission-oriented governance of research focuses on inspirational, yet attainable goals and targets the sustainable development goals through innovation pathways. We disentangle its implications for plant breeding research and thus impacting the sustainability transformation of agricultural systems, as it requires improved crop varieties and management practices. Speedy success in plant breeding is vital to lower the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, increase crop resilience to climate stresses and reduce postharvest losses. A key question is how this success may come about? So far plant breeding research has ignored wider social systems feedbacks, but governance also failed to deliver a set of systemic breeding goals providing directionality and organization to research policy of the same. To address these challenges, we propose a heuristic illustrating the core elements needed for governing plant breeding research: Genetics, Environment, Management and Social system (GxExMxS) are the core elements for defining directions for future breeding. We illustrate this based on historic cases in context of current developments in plant phenotyping technologies and derive implications for governing research infrastructures and breeding programs. As part of mission-oriented governance we deem long-term investments into human resources and experimental set-ups for agricultural systems necessary to ensure a symbiotic relationship for private and public breeding actors and recommend fostering collaboration between social and natural sciences for working towards transdisciplinary collaboration.
Short-term intervention complemented by wearable technology improves Trichotillomania – A naturalistic single-case report
Authors: Leibinger Konstantin W. , Murray Eileen , Aschenbrenner Steffen , Randerath Jennifer
Published: September 2023

There is a growing interest in using wearable technology for the treatment of body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), such as Trichotillomania. Yet, to our knowledge, few studies address the applicability and use of wearable technology as a therapeutic element in more naturalistic situations. Here we would like to introduce its potential use combined with a Habit-Reversal Training in a single-case experimental design. In practice, individuals with BFRBs frequently show complex constellations of psychiatric disorders. Accordingly, the here presented participant was diagnosed with Trichotillomania as well as comorbid ADHD and examination phobia. The participant was offered to wear an unobtrusive and user-friendly vibration device that sent an alarm when her critical hairpulling behaviors occurred. The complementing Habit-Reversal Training included an Awareness Training supported by the vibration alarm of the wearable device. It further included a Competing Response Training by learning benign behaviors that could replace the hairpulling behavior. The frequency of hairpulling episodes was assessed using daily self-reports and by using the monitoring function of the wearable device. The intervention procedure was implemented into the participant’s everyday life and evaluated over the course of 214 days. The results indicated a significant reduction in the daily episodes of hair pulling. Our preliminary findings suggest that the here applied intervention has the potential to effectively treat Trichotillomania in individuals with comorbid disorders in psychotherapeutic outpatient care. Certainly, group-studies will need to further validate the approach’s effectiveness.
Parental representations after preterm birth: a narrative review
Authors: Hamon Emeline , Bourdin Béatrice , Le Driant Barbara
Published: September 2023

Preterm birth accounts for nearly 15 million births annually worldwide and constitutes a considerable risk factor for atypical development. This birth context is a source of stress for the parents and often leads to an early separation between their child and them. Research on the influence of the birth status on the infant’s attachment style has shown no systematic link between preterm birth and the development of insecure attachment in children born preterm. This has opened up research perspectives in understanding the role of environmental factors. A literature review was conducted to present an overview of the current findings on parental representations (PR), particularly maternal ones, and their role in the context of preterm birth. PR quality appears to be associated with specific dyadic interaction patterns, thus exposing vulnerability factors. Studies exploring PR have pointed out the importance of considering parental mental elaboration mechanisms and contextual moderators in supporting socio-emotional development among children born preterm. We discussed the challenges of investigating PR in the context of preterm birth for future studies and emphasized the need for research studies to be conducted according to a developmental and non-deterministic perspective. This narrative review also aimed to highlight the importance of family centered care interventions in the context of a public policy focused on the child’s “First 1,000 days” of life.
Repressive and vigilant coping styles in stress and relaxation: evidence for physiological and subjective differences at baseline, but not for differential stress or relaxation responses
Authors: Exner Anna , Kampa Miriam , Finke Johannes B. , Stalder Tobias , Klapperich Holger , Hassenzahl Marc , Kleinke Kristian , Klucken Tim
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Previous research suggested differential stress reactivity depending on individuals’ coping style, e.g., as classified by the model of coping modes. Specifically, stronger physiological reactivity and weaker subjective stress ratings were found for repressors than for sensitizers. However, it remains to be investigated (i) whether these findings, which are largely based on social stress induction protocols, also generalize to other stressors, (ii) whether repressors vs. sensitizers also exhibit differential stress recovery following the application of a relaxation method, and (iii) which stress reactivity and recovery patterns are seen for the two remaining coping styles, i.e., fluctuating, and non-defensive copers. The current study thus examines stress reactivity in physiology and subjective ratings to a non-social stressor and the subsequent ability to relax for the four coping groups of repressors, sensitizers, fluctuating, and non-defensive copers.

Methods

A total of 96 healthy participants took part in a stress induction (Mannheim Multicomponent Stress Test) and a subsequent relaxation intervention. Subjective ratings of stress and relaxation, heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and blood pressure were assessed during the experiment. HR and blood pressure are markers of the sympathetic stress response that can be regulated by relaxation, while HRV should increase with relaxation. To investigate long-term relaxation effects, subjective ratings were also assessed on the evening of testing.

Results

Despite successful stress induction, no differential responses (baseline to stress, stress to relaxation) were observed between the different coping groups on any of the measures. In contrast, a strong baseline effect was observed that persisted throughout the experiment: In general, fluctuating copers showed lower HR and higher HRV than non-defensive copers, whereas repressors reported lower subjective stress levels and higher levels of relaxation during all study phases. No differences in subjective ratings were observed in the evening of testing.

Conclusion

Contrary to previous research, no differential stress reactivity pattern was observed between coping groups, which could be due to the non-social type of stressor employed in this study. The novel finding of physiological baseline differences between fluctuating and non-defensive individuals is of interest and should be further investigated in other stressor types in future research.
Addressing the autism mental health crisis: the potential of phenomenology in neurodiversity-affirming clinical practices
Authors: Pantazakos Themistoklis , Vanaken Gert-Jan
Published: September 2023

The neurodiversity movement has introduced a new era for autism research. Yet, the neurodiversity paradigm and the autism clinic remain largely unconnected. With the present work, we aim to contribute to filling this lacuna by putting forward phenomenology as a foundation for developing neurodiversity-affirming clinical interventions for autism. In the first part of this paper, we highlight that autistic people face a severe mental health crisis. We argue that approaches focused on reducing autistic ‘symptoms’ are unlikely to solve the problem, as autistic mental health is positively correlated with autism acceptance and perceived quality of support provided, not necessarily with lack of ‘symptomatologic severity’. Therefore, the development and dissemination of neurodiversity-affirming clinical interventions is key for addressing the autism mental health crisis. However, therapists and researchers exploring such neurodiversity-affirming practices are faced with two significant challenges. First, they lack concrete methodological principles regarding the incorporation of neurodiversity into clinical work. Second, they need to find ways to acknowledge rightful calls to respect the ‘autistic self’ within the clinic, while also challenging certain beliefs and behaviors of autistic clients in a manner that issine qua nonfor therapy, irrespective of neurotype. In the second part of the paper, we introduce phenomenological psychology as a potential resource for engaging with these challenges in neurodiversity-affirming approaches to psychotherapy. In this vein, we put forward specific directions for adapting cognitive behavioral and interpersonal psychotherapy for autism.
Reasons for migration, parental acculturation, and language: the case of Chinese American and Mexican American parents and dual language learners
Authors: Buttiler Maria Belen , Zhou Qing , Uchikoshi Yuuko
Published: September 2023

Migration is a complex process associated with a range of social, economic, and political reasons. In the U.S., almost one-quarter of the total population of parents are immigrant parents of children ages 0–10. Immigrant parents transmit values from their culture of origin as well as their language to their children. Additionally, they may undergo a process of cultural and psychological change known as acculturation. Research has shown that acculturation can be linked to parenting styles and adolescents’ psychological well-being and behavioral problems. However, little is known about the associations among immigrant parents’ acculturation, their home language and literacy practices, and their bilingual children’s language skills. This study explores the relationships among reasons for migration, parental acculturation, home language and literacy practices, and child expressive vocabulary in English and their heritage language (HL). A group of 190 Spanish-English (N = 66) and Chinese-English (N = 124) dual language learners (DLLs) (mean age = 48.98 months) and their Chinese and Mexican parents (mean age of migration = 18.57 and 21.38 years old respectively participated. Frequency counts revealed that Mexican American families migrated to the U.S. mostly for multiple reasons, including joining family members, getting married, and looking for better education or job opportunities, whereas most Chinese American families migrated for family reasons only. Path analysis models showed that, for both cultural groups, language input in Spanish and Chinese mediated the relationship between parents’ cultural orientations and DLLs’ HL expressive vocabulary. These findings emphasize that despite the heterogeneity of immigrant families and the variability in DLLs’ vocabulary skills in preschool, there exist some similarities across immigrant parents and bilingual children. A deeper understanding of acculturation practices and home language use can help educators better support children from diverse backgrounds and promote cultural awareness and sensitivity in the classroom.
Modafinil’s effects on cognition and sleep quality in affectively-stable patients with bipolar disorder: a pilot study
Authors: Lipschitz Jessica M. , Perez-Rodriguez Mercedes , Majd Marzieh , Larsen Emmett , Locascio Joseph , Pike Chelsea K. , Shanahan Megan , Burdick Katherine E.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Despite advances in the treatment of bipolar disorder (BD), most patients do not achieve complete inter-episode recovery and functional disability is common. During periods of relative remission, many patients continue to experience neurocognitive dysfunction, reduced daytime activity levels, and sleep disturbances. This 8-week, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study evaluated the feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of the wake-promoting drug, modafinil (Provigil®), on neurocognitive functioning, daytime sleepiness, and sleep quality in affectively-stable BD patients.

Methods

Twelve individuals with affectively-stable BD were recruited and randomized to a flexible dose of modafinil (100 to 200 mg/day) or placebo, adjunctive to a therapeutic dose of a mood stabilizer. Weekly in-person visits tracked sleep quality and daytime sleepiness as well as side effects and mood symptoms. Neurocognitive functioning was assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 8.

Results

No serious adverse events were reported. Newly emergent side effects in the modafinil group included heart palpitations, itching, fatigue, and decreased energy. Two patients discontinued modafinil owing to side effects and one of these patients withdrew from the study. One patient discontinued placebo and was withdrawn from the study. Preliminary evaluations of clinical efficacy showed a marginally significant interaction between treatment group and time in two cognitive domains (speed of processing and verbal learning), indicating greater improvement in the modafinil group versus placebo. Additionally, there was a marginally significant effect of treatment group on daytime sleepiness, suggesting lower daytime sleepiness in the modafinil group versus placebo. Counterintuitively, we found a significant treatment group by time interaction effect on sleep quality, suggesting greater improvement in sleep quality in the placebo group versus the modafinil group.

Discussion

Results suggest that modafinil is a relatively safe medication for affectively-stable BD patients when given with adjunctive mood stabilizers. Results are suggestive of cognitive benefit and improved daytime sleepiness, but worse sleep quality in those patients prescribed modafinil. A fully powered clinical trial is warranted with specific attention to the characteristics of patients who are most likely to benefit from treatment with modafinil and other methodological lessons learned from this pilot.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT01965925.
The relevance of integrated reporting in future standard setting of the International Sustainability Standards Board
Authors: van Wyk Milan , Els Gideon
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Sustainability reporting has become increasingly important to stakeholders, and therefore, there is a growing need for a global set of standards for sustainability reporting. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has recently published new sustainability standards under the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation. The consolidation of integrated reporting  into the IFRS Foundation creates the problem of whether there is still a need for  principles in the future of sustainability reporting and how these principles will be applied in the standard setting of the ISSB in future. This study provides insights into the similarities and differences between the  Framework and the ISSB's draft IFRS S1 standard and clarifies the role that  could play in the future of sustainability reporting within the context of the newly issued IFRS S1 standard.

Methods

The study uses thematic content analysis on the two frameworks and comment letters submitted to the ISSB as part of the standard-setting process to understand the relevance of integrated reporting in sustainability reporting and to identify important principles contained within  that can contribute to the ISSB standard-setting process in future.

Results

The study identified that there is a largely positive sentiment toward  in developing sustainability standards within the IFRS Foundation. The study also identified important aspects where  can play a significant role in standard development, such as the connectivity of information, integrated thinking, and the six capitals that can assist organizations in understanding the significant sustainability-related risks and opportunities.

Conclusion

The research points out pertinent sustainability principles that could be useful for the ISSB in future standard settings. Furthermore, the research adds to the existing literature on  and can act as an impetus for further research on the use of  principles in the standard-setting processes of the ISSB.
Inhalation of electronic cigarettes slightly affects lung function and inflammation in mice
Authors: Dai Yuxing , Duan Kun , Huang Guangye , Yang Xuemin , Jiang Xingtao , Chen Jianwen , Liu Peiqing
Published: September 2023

Electronic cigarettes have become increasingly popular, but the results of previous studies on electronic cigarette exposure in animals have been equivocal. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of electronic cigarette smoke (ECS) and cigarette smoke (CS) on lung function and pulmonary inflammation in mice to investigate whether electronic cigarettes are safer when compared to cigarettes. 32 specific pathogen-free BALB/c male mice were randomly grouped and exposed to fresh air (control), mint-flavored ECS (ECS1, 6 mg/kg), cheese-flavored ECS (ECS2, 6 mg/kg), and CS (6 mg/kg). After 3 weeks exposure to ECS or CS, we measured lung function (PIF and Penh) and blood oxygen saturation. The levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum were measured using ELISA. HE staining was performed to observe the pathological changes in the lung tissues. The levels of IL-6 in BALF and serum, and TNF-α in BALF, were elevated similarly in the ECS and CS groups compared to the control group. Significant elevation was observed in serum TNF-α levels in the CS group. The total count of cells in BALF were increased after ECS1 exposure and CS exposure. PIF and oxygen saturation decreased, and Penh increased markedly in the CS group but not in the ECS groups. Compared with the ECS groups, mice in the CS group had widened lung tissue septa and increased inflammatory cell infiltration. However, we did not detect significant differences between mint-flavored and cheese-flavored e-cigarettes in our study. Overall, our findings suggested that both ECS and CS impair lung function and histopathology while promoting inflammation. In contrast, ECS has a less negative impact than CS.
Case report: Lymphocytic-plasmacytic and eosinophilic enterocolitis presented with marked eosinophilia and basophilia in a cat
Authors: Kim Jin-Young , Hwang Tae-Sung , Jung Dong-In , Song Kun-Ho , Song Joong-Hyun
Published: September 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease is a common condition in cats, characterized by recurring gastrointestinal signs with histologic evidence of intestinal inflammation. A 9-month-old neutered male Sphynx cat was presented with a 5-week history of vomiting and hematochezia. Conservative patient management with a therapeutic gastrointestinal formula, antibiotics, and antiemetics resulted in a positive response to treatment, with relapse of signs when the medications were discontinued. A new finding of marked eosinophilia and basophilia was identified 3 months after the initial presentation. Colonoscopy revealed cecal erosions and a surgical biopsy with histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of lymphocytic-plasmacytic and eosinophilic enterocolitis. For this diagnosis, the patient was treated with prednisolone, tylosin, and metronidazole. Antibiotics were gradually tapered as the cat showed clinical improvement. The patient showed resolution of the gastrointestinal signs, and the numbers of eosinophils and basophils returned within the reference range 8 weeks after the treatment began. Basophilia and eosinophilia has been reported in conjunction with feline T-cell lymphoma. However, marked basophilia accompanying eosinophilia is extremely rare in cats with inflammatory bowel disease. We herein provide clinical details, including ultrasonography, endoscopy, histopathology, and disease course of feline lymphocytic-plasmacytic and eosinophilic enterocolitis with marked basophilia and eosinophilia. This case highlights the importance of considering enteritis as potential diagnoses when eosinophilia and basophilia are concurrently observed in cats.
Migranci wojenni z Ukrainy. Opinie Polaków na temat ich pobytu oraz zakresu udzielanej im pomocy
Authors: Kubiciel-Lodzińska Sabina , Kownacka Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

This article discusses the results of four editions of an opinion poll conducted among Poles that dealt with the reception of war migrants from Ukraine and referred to involvement in helping them. It was conducted on a survey panel on: 24.02.2022 (N = 1000), 4.03.2022 (N = 1653), 24.05.2022 (N = 1783), and 21.10.2022 (N = 1774). It showed, among other things, that the level of acceptance of Poles for reception people fleeing the war was high, as it oscillated between 70% and even 80%. Poles’ willingness to help Ukrainians has also been changing since the beginning of the war, as well as the perception of forced migrants in the labour market and in society. Poles showed a high degree of openness, as confirmed by research. They supported, financially, in kind, or through their own involvement, those who sought refuge due to the war. However, the survey also showed Poles’ concerns about the presence of forced migrants.
Współczesne ruchy antyimigracyjne w Polsce w kontekście kryzysów uchodźczego i migracyjnych. Zarys problematyki
Authors: Szyszlak Elżbieta
Published: September 2023

One of the consequences of the influx of refugees and immigrants to the European continent is the rise of anti-immigration sentiments. These translate, among other things, into the emergence of anti-immigrant social movements. The subject of consideration will be their activity in our country. They have intensified due to the immigration crisis, which has been de facto unnoticeable in Poland so far. In contrast, now, when Poland is facing an unprecedented influx of refugees and immigrants from Ukraine, anti-immigrant movements are of marginal significance. The study will show anti-immigration movements in Poland from the pe rspective of selected theories from the social sciences. Then, the factors influencing the development of this type of social activity in Poland will be discussed. The last part will present the previous activity of anti-immigration movements in our country. The central hypothesis is based on the assumption that factors potentially conducive to developing anti-immigrant movements have emerged in Poland. They took the form of an influx of immigrants and refugees on a previously unprecedented scale and under the conditions of watershed moments, including the migration crisis in Europe, the COVID-19 pandemic, the immigration crisis on the Polish-Belarusian border, the war in Ukraine and the deteriorating economic situation. On the other hand, a group of factors led by the political situation, which has so far effectively limited the growth of these movements on a broader scale, has emerged.
Kryzys uchodźczy w 2015 i 2022 – podobieństwa i różnice na przykładzie polityki względem uchodźców wojennych w Turcji i Polsce
Authors: Cesarz Maciej
Published: September 2023

The aim of the publication is a comparative analysis of the migration crisis of 2015 and 2022, with particular emphasis on refugee policy in Turkey and Poland and in the broadly understood context of the European Union. Embedded in the interdisciplinary field of European Studies, the article is based on the assumption that the dynamics and scale of migration flows in 2022 distinguish this crisis from the events of 2015, and the neighborly location of Ukraine influenced a different assessment of the situation than it was in the case of conflicts in sub-Saharan Africa or the Middle East. The cultural and ethnic proximity of Ukrainians has played a key role and is reflected in EU legislation regulating their status as displaced persons. The conclusions highlight the trend in Turkey and EU countries to renationalise refugee protection measures, the temporary nature of which is becoming a common standard. The research is based on the legal-dogmatic method, institutional analysis, comparative method and discourse analysis, using appropriate research techniques.
Grupa Wyszehradzka (V4) wobec kryzysu migracyjnego w Europie
Authors: Bąk-Pitucha Aneta
Published: September 2023

Mass immigration is one of the biggest challenge currently facing the European Union (EU). In retrospect, it can also be seen that it caused dissonance between the member states not only of the EU, but also of the V4 and revealed their lack of solidarity. The changes taking place in Central and Eastern Europe, which began in 1989, mainly included the internal and foreign policy of the four countries that make up the V4, i.e. the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary. 2015 is considered to be the beginning of the crisis, but the number of immigrants and refugees arriving in Europe has already increased. The aim of the article is to indicate the multifaceted activity of the V4 and the position towards migration. The key issue that needs to be answered will be the prospect of further activities of the V4 in the face of new threats such as the migration crisis. The article uses a comparative and systemic method.
Sexuality and Mental Health of Pakistani-Descent Adolescent Girls living in Canada: Perceptions and Recommendations
Authors: Punjani Neelam Saleem , Papathanassoglou Elizabeth , Hegadoren Kathy , Hirani Saima , Mumtaz Zubia , Jackson Margot
Published: September 2023

In Canada, the demands of female immigrant adolescents in terms of sexual health are largely unmet and have grown significantly in recent years. According to studies, racialized immigrant adolescents are less likely than non-immigrant adolescents to be knowledgeable about sexual and reproductive health and to use resources for sex education and related services. This difference seems to be related to socio-cultural and religious practices in Pakistani immigrant adolescents. This paper intends to explain the viewpoints of female adolescents of first- or second-generation Pakistani descent who reside in Canada with regard to their development of sexuality and psychological well-being. Moreover, this paper also describes how female adolescents perceive the necessity to support their sexuality as they go through the adolescent stage. Individual interviews and timelines were created using qualitative interpretative descriptive design. We included 21 female adolescents of first- or second-generation Pakistani ethnicity using a purposive sample. Data analysis was performed using a thematic analysis. The findings indicate that immigrant adolescent girls received conflicting messages about sexuality from their parents which impacted their psychological well-being. Additionally, survey participants noted that prejudice, exclusion from sex education classes, and a lack of sexual health information contributed to social isolation, health care avoidance, and poor mental health outcomes like melancholy and anxiety among adolescent girls. The absence of sexuality-related communication with parents and the scarcity of medical professionals who can relate to and address the needs and realities of immigrants may have an impact on the participants’ experiences. Female immigrant girls also spoke up on the need for open, honest, and stigma-free conversations as well as for the need to end the taboo around the subject of sexuality. This study used principles from both intersectionality and postmodern feminist theories to increase our understanding of the interplay between the experiences of developing sexuality and overall well-being in female immigrant adolescents of Pakistani descent. It is crucial to involve, listen to, and incorporate female adolescents’ voices when planning and implementing interventions to support healthy sexuality among immigrant adolescents.
Estimating Evapotranspiration of Greenhouse Tomato under Different Irrigation Levels Using a Modified Dual Crop Coefficient Model in Northeast China
Authors: Yao Mingze , Gao Manman , Wang Jingkuan , Li Bo , Mao Lizhen , Zhao Mingyu , Xu Zhanyang , Niu Hongfei , Wang Tieliang , Sun Lei , Niu Dongshuang
Published: September 2023

Accurate quantification of evapotranspiration (ETc) and its components are critical for enhancing water use efficiency and implementing precision irrigation. A two-year experiment was conducted for greenhouse-grown tomatoes under mulched drip irrigation with three irrigation treatments during 2020–2021 in Northeast China. Three different irrigation treatments were applied by setting upper and lower soil moisture irrigation thresholds (i.e., W1, 65%θFC–75%θFC, W2, 75%θFC–85%θFC, W3, 85%θFC–95%θFC, respectively, where θFC is field capacity). In this study, a modified dual crop coefficient (Kc) model was proposed to simulate daily ETc, plant transpiration (Tr) and soil evaporation (Es). The simulations of the model were validated against observed data from the sap flow system combined with the soil water balance method. The controlling factors on the variations of evapotranspiration and its components were also identified by using the path analysis method. Results showed that the modified dual Kc model can accurately simulate daily ETc, Es, and Tr for the greenhouse tomato under different irrigation conditions, with the coefficients of determination ranging from 0.88 to 0.98 and the index of agreement higher than 0.90. The seasonal cumulative ETc of tomato for W1–W3 were 138.5–194.4 mm, of which 9.5–15.8% was consumed by Es. Path analysis showed that the net radiation (Rn) was the dominant factor controlling the variations of Tr and ETc during the growing seasons. The canopy coverage degree (Kcc) was the dominant controlling factor of Es, while the temperature (Ta) was the primary limiting factor affecting Es. This study can provide reference information for developing proper irrigation management in a greenhouse-grown tomato in the north cold climate regions.
What Is the Willingness to Pay for a Basket of Agricultural Goods? Multi-Features of Organic, Animal Welfare-Based and Natural Products with No Additives
Authors: Chiou Yan-Shiang , Wu Pei-Ing , Liou Je-Liang , Huang Ta-Ken , Chen Chu-Wei
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study is to construct a model by combining the theory of planned behavior (TPB) with conjoint analysis to evaluate baskets of agricultural goods. Each basket of agricultural goods contains various different products, including white rice and leaf vegetables are either organic or non-organic, hens’ eggs and chicken drumsticks obtained from chickens bred with and without due consideration for animal welfare, and soy sauce and jam with or without additives. The evaluation of these various features is innovative and in accordance with the shopping behavior of most consumers who, most of the time, concurrently evaluate these multi-features and multi-products. The price premium for each feature and the willingness to pay, the highest amount that a consumer is willing to pay, for a specific basket of agricultural goods is evaluated by using the multinomial logit model and the linear regression model. The relationship between essential factors in the TPB and the sociodemographic characteristics of consumers is examined. In general, the ranking of the price premium paid for products from the highest to the lowest is soy sauce, jam, chicken drumsticks, white rice, hens’ eggs, and leaf vegetables, respectively. The price premium for natural products with no additives is higher than that for organic and animal welfare-based products. The evaluation of these multi-features of agricultural goods allows us to observe the relative importance of an agricultural product through the price premium, with different combinations of other products. This indicates that the evaluation of the price premium for only a single product or for multiple products with a single feature might be either over-estimated or under-estimated.
Origin Intelligent Identification of Angelica sinensis Using Machine Vision and Deep Learning
Authors: Zhang Zimei , Xiao Jianwei , Wang Shanyu , Wu Min , Wang Wenjie , Liu Ziliang , Zheng Zhian
Published: September 2023

The accurate identification of the origin of Chinese medicinal materials is crucial for the orderly management of the market and clinical drug usage. In this study, a deep learning-based algorithm combined with machine vision was developed to automatically identify the origin of Angelica sinensis (A. sinensis) from eight areas including 1859 samples. The effects of different datasets, learning rates, solver algorithms, training epochs and batch sizes on the performance of the deep learning model were evaluated. The optimized hyperparameters of the model were the dataset 4, learning rate of 0.001, solver algorithm of rmsprop, training epochs of 6, and batch sizes of 20, which showed the highest accuracy in the training process. Compared to support vector machine (SVM), K-nearest neighbors (KNN) and decision tree, the deep learning-based algorithm could significantly improve the prediction performance and show better robustness and generalization performance. The deep learning-based model achieved the highest accuracy, precision, recall rate and F1_Score values, which were 99.55%, 99.41%, 99.49% and 99.44%, respectively. These results showed that deep learning combined with machine vision can effectively identify the origin of A. sinensis.