bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OsWRKY53 Promotes Abscisic Acid Accumulation to Accelerate Leaf Senescence and Inhibit Seed Germination by Downregulating Abscisic Acid Catabolic Genes in Rice
Authors: Xie Wenya , Li Xinru , Wang Shiping , Yuan Meng
Published: January 2022

Abscisic acid (ABA) largely promotes leaf senescence and inhibits seed germination in plants. Endogenous ABA content is finely tuned by many transcription factors. In this study, we showed that OsWRKY53 is a positive regulator of leaf senescence and a negative regulator of seed germination in rice. OsWRKY53 expression was induced in leaves under aging, dark, and ABA treatment. The OsWRKY53-overexpressing (OsWRKY53-oe) plants showed early yellowing leaves, while the OsWRKY53 (oswrky53) knockout mutants maintained green leaves than the wild type under natural, dark-induced, and ABA-induced senescence conditions. Transcriptional analysis revealed that ABA catabolic genes, namely, OsABA8ox1 and OsABA8ox2, two key genes participating in ABA catabolism harboring ABA 8′-hydroxylase activity, were markedly downregulated in OsWRKY53-oe leaves. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and protoplast transient assays revealed that OsWRKY53 directly bound to the promoters of OsABA8ox1 and OsABA8ox2 to repress their transcription, resulting in elevated endogenous ABA contents that promoted premature leaf senescence in the OsWRKY53-oe plants. It indicates that OsWRKY53 is a positive regulator through regulating ABA accumulation to promote leaf senescence. In addition, accumulated ABA simultaneously inhibited seed germination and post-germination growth in OsWRKY53-oe plants. Taken together, OsWRKY53 suppresses the transcript of ABA catabolic genes to promote ABA accumulation to modulate ABA-induced leaf senescence and ABA-mediated inhibition of seed germination.
Histone Deacetylation Controls Xylem Vessel Cell Differentiation via Transcriptional Regulation of a Transcription Repressor Complex OFP1/4–MYB75–KNAT7–BLH6
Authors: Hirai Risaku , Wang Shumin , Demura Taku , Ohtani Misato
Published: January 2022

Xylem vessels are indispensable tissues in vascular plants that transport water and minerals. The differentiation of xylem vessel cells is characterized by secondary cell wall deposition and programmed cell death. These processes are initiated by a specific set of transcription factors, called VASCULAR-RELATED NAC-DOMAIN (VND) family proteins, through the direct and/or indirectly induction of genes required for secondary cell wall deposition and programmed cell death. In this study, we explored novel regulatory factors for xylem vessel cell differentiation in Arabidopsis thaliana. We tested the effects of cellular stress inducers on VND7-induced differentiation of xylem vessel cells with the VND7–VP16–GR system, in which VND7 activity is post-translationally induced by dexamethasone application. We established that the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors trichostatin A (TSA) and sirtinol inhibited VND7-induced xylem vessel cell differentiation. The inhibitory effects of TSA and sirtinol treatment were detected only when they were added at the same time as the dexamethasone application, suggesting that TSA and sirtinol mainly influence the early stages of xylem vessel cell differentiation. Expression analysis revealed that these HDAC inhibitors downregulated VND7-downstream genes, including both direct and indirect targets of transcriptional activation. Notably, the HDAC inhibitors upregulated the transcript levels of negative regulators of xylem vessel cells, OVATE FAMILY PROTEIN1 (OFP1), OFP4, and MYB75, which are known to form a protein complex with BEL1-LIKE HOMEODOMAIN6 (BLH6) to repress gene transcription. The KDB system, another in vitro induction system of ectopic xylem vessel cells, demonstrated that TSA and sirtinol also inhibited ectopic formation of xylem vessel cells, and this inhibition was partially suppressed in knat7-1, bhl6-1, knat7-1 bhl6-1, and quintuple ofp1 ofp2 ofp3 ofp4 ofp5 mutants. Thus, the negative effects of HDAC inhibitors on xylem vessel cell differentiation are mediated, at least partly, by the abnormal upregulation of the transcriptional repressor complex OFP1/4–MYB75–KNAT7–BLH6. Collectively, our findings suggest that active regulation of histone deacetylation by HDACs is involved in xylem vessel cell differentiation via the OFP1/4–MYB75–KNAT7–BLH6 complex.
Transition Zone1 Negatively Regulates Arabidopsis Aluminum Resistance Through Interaction With Aconitases
Authors: Liu Jiajia , Shi Benhui , Zhang Mengxin , Liu Guangchao , Ding Zhaojun , Tian Huiyu
Published: January 2022

The soluble form of aluminum (Al) is a major constraint to crop production in acidic soils. The Al exclusion correlated with the Al-induced organic acid is considered as an important mechanism of Al resistance. The regulation of organic acid exudation in response to Al stress mediated by the root organic acid transporters has been extensively studied. However, how plants respond to Al stress through the regulation of organic acid homeostasis is not well understood. In this study, we identified the functionally unknown Transition zone1 (TZ1) as an Al-inducible gene in the root transition zone, the most sensitive region to Al stress, in Arabidopsis. tz1 mutants showed enhanced Al resistance and displayed greatly reduced root growth inhibition. Furthermore, TZ1 was found to interact with the aconitases (ACOs) which can catalyze the conversion from citrate, one of the most important organic acids, into isocitrate. Consistently, in tz1 mutants, the citric acid content was highly increased. Collectively, this study provides evidence to show that TZ1 negatively regulates root growth response to Al stress through interacting with ACOs and regulating citric acid homeostasis.
Effect of Drought on Bean Yield Is Mediated by Intraspecific Variation in Crop Mixtures
Authors: Singh Akanksha , Lehner Inea , Schöb Christian
Published: January 2022

Increasing plant diversity in agricultural systems provides promising solutions for sustainably increasing crop yield. It remains unclear; however, how plant–plant interactions in diverse systems are mediated by plant genetic variation. We conducted a greenhouse experiment in which we grew three varieties of common beans with three companion plant species (chickpeas, sorghum, and sunflower) in different combinations (crop mixtures, bean cultivar mixtures, and monocultures), with and without drought stress. We hypothesized that under drought stress, the effect of companion plant species on bean yield would be mediated by the drought tolerance potential of the species. We further hypothesized that this effect would vary across different bean cultivars. Overall, we show that the effect of companion plant species on bean yield was not influenced by drought stress; instead, it was dependent on the identity of the bean variety. This could partially be explained by variation in growth rate between bean varieties, where the fastest growing variety recorded the highest yield increase in plant mixtures. The effect of companion plant species on chickpea biomass, however, was potentially influenced by chickpea drought tolerance potential; chickpea biomass was recorded to be higher in plant mixtures than in its monoculture under drought conditions. Our study highlights that to develop plant mixtures, it is not only important to consider the functional traits of the interacting plant species, but also those of the different plant varieties. We further suggest that stress tolerance can be a useful trait for initial selection of plant varieties when developing crop mixtures.
Morphological and Developmental Features of Stone Cells in Eriobotrya Fruits
Authors: Lin Shoukai , Lin Dahe , Wu Bisha , Ma Shiwei , Sun Shengfeng , Zhang Ting , Zhang Wenting , Bai Yunlu , Wang Qiong , Wu Jincheng
Published: January 2022

Some members of the Rosaceae family, particularly pear, contain stone cells in their fruits. Although stone cells in pear fruits are well studied, relatively little attention has been given to loquat stone cells. Only a few reports have suggested a relationship between stone cell traits and storage and transport tolerance of loquat fruits. Previously, we generated the variety JT8 from the interspecific hybrid of the loquat cultivar Jiefangzhong (JFZ; Eriobotrya japonica Lindl. cv. Jiefangzhong, female parent) and wild Taiwanese loquat (TL; E. deflexa Nakai, male parent). The JT8 fruits had a granular feel, similar to that of pear fruits, due to the presence of stone cells. In this study, the shape, size, development, and distribution dynamics of stone cells of Eriobotrya plants were thoroughly investigated. The results showed that loquat stone cells are brachysclereids and often contain typical branching pits. Loquat stone cells were distributed as both single stone cells and in stone cell clusters (SCCs), and the density of the stone cells near the core was higher than that near the peel. Stone cell density first increased and then decreased during fruit development. These traits noted in Eriobotrya were very similar to those observed in pear, indicating a close relationship between loquat and pear. Moreover, the contents, density dynamics, and aggregation traits of stone cells of the interspecific hybrid JT8 were derived from the male parent (TL). Transgressive segregation was likely exhibited in the content of stone cells and the size of the SCCs. More specifically, the content of stone cells reached 1.61% (w/w). In extreme cases, SCCs of JT8 exceeded 1,000 μm in length and 500 μm in width. This demonstrated that stone cell traits could be transmitted from parent to progeny through interspecific hybridization. The density dynamics of stone cells in two loquat cultivars with different storage and transport tolerances were also investigated, which indicated that the cultivar with more stone cells was more tolerant to storage and transport. We suggest that wild loquat genetic resources containing stone cells in Eriobotrya plants can be used to gradually improve the storage and transport tolerance of loquat fruits.
Cultivating Compassion and Reducing Stress and Mental Ill-Health in Employees—A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Andersson Christina , Mellner Christin , Lilliengren Peter , Einhorn Stefan , Bergsten Katja Lindert , Stenström Emma , Osika Walter
Published: January 2022

Stress and mental ill-health carry considerable costs for both individuals and organizations. Although interventions targeting compassion and self-compassion have been shown to reduce stress and benefit mental health, related research in organizational settings is limited. We investigated the effects of a 6-week psychological intervention utilizing compassion training on stress, mental health, and self-compassion. Forty-nine employees of two organizations were randomly assigned to either the intervention (n = 25) or a physical exercise control condition (n = 24). Multilevel growth models showed that stress (p = 0.04) and mental ill-health (p = 0.02) decreased over 3 months in both groups (pre-intervention to follow-up: Cohen’s d = −0.46 and d = 0.33, respectively), while self-compassion only increased in the intervention group (p = 0.03, between group d = 0.53). There were no significant effects on life satisfaction in any of the groups (p > 0.53). The findings show promising results regarding the ability of compassion training within organizations to decrease stress and mental ill-health and increase self-compassion.
Perceptions and Challenges of Engineering and Science Transfer Students From Community College to University in a Chinese Educational Context
Authors: Lau Yui-yip , Tang Yuk Ming , Yiu Nicole S. N. , Ho Ceci Sze Wing , Kwok Wilson Yeung Yuk , Cheung Kin
Published: January 2022

In Hong Kong, transfer students encounter different challenges unfolding in their transition from community college to university study. However, limited research has been conducted to explore their discipline-specific challenges. To address this gap, in this study three engineering and science faculties were selected from which to collect data through 35 in-depth interviews with transfer students, followed by a thorough thematic analysis. With the concept of in-betweenness, three main themes were identified: (1) “shifted the focus of study” (three sub-themes: (i) academic excellence in community college; (ii) future career in the university; and (iii) university life); (2) “encountered challenges in the transition” (four sub-themes: (i) non-matching program articulation; (ii) heavy study workload and its associated consequences; and (iii) non-specific administration arrangement and support from university); and (3) “students’ voices to enhance learning experiences” (four sub-themes: (i) modify the study duration; (ii) improve program articulation; (iii) improve social adjustment; and (iv) overseas exchange). The results of this study indicate the challenges faced by transfer students in their transition from community college to university and have implications for universities to design and implement appropriate strategies to prepare for the future.
Rwanda's Resiliency During the Coronavirus Disease Pandemic
Authors: Louis Elizabeth Farrah , Eugene Dominique , Ingabire Willy Chrysostome , Isano Sandra , Blanc Judite
Published: January 2022

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has illustrated the wide range of preventative measures and responsive strategies of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). LMICs have implemented lessons learned from previous periods of epidemics and uncertainties. Rwanda's pre-existing decentralized healthcare and mental health system which are in response to the mental health distress from the 1994 genocide, continues to be a formidable system that collaborate and combine efforts to address people's mental health needs. COVID-19 has heightened or exacerbated people's mental health within the country. Rwandans have been exposed to and endured adversities, yet their cultural forms of resilience serve as a mental health protective factor to also overcome COVID-19. Nonetheless, Rwanda has engaged in interventions targeting public safety, social and economic protection that specifically address vulnerable communitie's mental health needs. Lessons from preparedness for the Ebola virus disease (EVD) epidemic has contributed to Rwanda's organization and approach to combating COVID-19. Policies and best practices that were enacted during the EVD outbreak have guided Rwanda's response within the healthcare and mental health system. Coincidentally, this outbreak emerged during the 26th commemoration of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Although for the first-time post genocide, Rwanda was not able to engage in public traditional forms of collective mourning and community healing, evidence of Rwandan's resilient spirit is demonstrated. Community resilience has been defined by Magis [401] as the “existence, development and engagement of community resources by community members to thrive in an environment characterized by change, uncertainty, unpredictability and surprise.”. Referring to this definition, community resilience has been an interwoven into the cultural framework that guided Rwandans in past challenges and continues to be evident now. Rwanda's resilience throughout this pandemic remains through ongoing psychoeducation, community awareness of mental health concerns, collective messages of highlighting mental health support, and solidarity. The global community can gain knowledge from Rwanda's learned lessons of their past which has positioned itself to stand on its resilient values in times of uncertainty such as COVID-19 and endeavor to overcome through national cohesion.
Perceived Psychological Feelings Make Important Contributions to the Symptoms of Common Mental Disorders of Medical Staff During the COVID-19
Authors: Han Bing , Ma Chao , Liu Zhaorui , Jiang Rongmeng , Zhang Tingting , Wang Ying , Chen Hongguang , Wen Jing , Huang Yueqin
Published: January 2022

Objective

Lack of information about mental health status among medical staff during the epidemic of COVID-19 in China is one of the major barriers to psychological interventions. This paper aims to evaluate the contributions of perceived psychological feelings to the symptoms of common mental disorders among medical staff during the epidemic of COVID-19 in China.

Method

A large sample of medical staff based on a non-probability sampling design was collected from February 17 to 24, 2020. The symptoms of common mental disorders were screened based on self-reported instruments to evaluate psychological distress, anxious symptoms, and depressive symptoms during the past week. Perceived psychological feelings were based on self-report. Logistic regressions and elastic net regularizations were used to evaluate the independent effect of the psychological feelings controlled by hospitals and participants characteristics.

Results

Totally 4,677 medical staff completed the survey. The prevalence of psychological distress, anxious symptoms, and depressive symptoms were 15.9% (95% CI 14.8–16.9), 16.0% (95% CI 15.0–17.1), and 34.6% (95% CI 33.2–35.9). Feelings of having adequate personal protective equipment, receiving enough emotional supports from both family members and colleagues were significantly associated with fewer symptoms of common mental disorders, while the feelings of overloaded work and insufficient rest times contributed to more psychological problems.

Conclusions

Psychological feelings make important contributions to the symptoms of common mental disorders of medical staff during the epidemic of COVID-19. Strategies of psychological aids or interventions could be developed based on these feelings.
Default Mode Network Alterations Induced by Childhood Trauma Correlate With Emotional Function and SLC6A4 Expression
Authors: Tian Tian , Li Jia , Zhang Guiling , Wang Jian , Liu Dong , Wan Changhua , Fang Jicheng , Wu Di , Zhou Yiran , Qin Yuanyuan , Zhu Wenzhen
Published: January 2022

As one of the most studied resting-state functional networks, default mode network (DMN) is related to pathogenesis in neuropsychiatry. However, it is unclear whether changed DMN connectivity is transformed into vulnerability to psychopathology in adults who experienced childhood trauma, and what is the underlying genetic basis. Exploring the effect of DMN on environment-behavior pathway and the related genetic modulation mechanisms could further a better understanding of psychiatric pathogenesis and early prevention strategy. Two hundred and sixteen young adults with varying levels of early trauma indexed by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) were recruited from the community. Static and dynamic functional connectivity based on DMN seeds and independent component analysis based on whole-brain voxels were combined to explore DMN alterations related to the CTQ score. Relationships between CTQ score, DMN connectivity, and behavioral scores were confirmed by mediation effect analysis. Imaging-genomic correlations were further used to identify risk genes whose expression was associated with the DMN changes. Dysregulated DMN connectivity was found both in seed-level and voxel-level analyses. Moreover, the functional disruption in the left temporal pole, right parahippocampal gyrus, and frontoparietal connectivity mediated the effects of childhood trauma on emotional behavior. The serotonin transporter gene was identified and might suggest the biological underpinning of the relationship between childhood trauma, DMN, and emotion regulation. Changed DMN may be useful as biomarkers to provide a powerful supplement to psychological evaluation related to childhood trauma. Combined with gene expression profiles, our findings advance a more integrative understanding of DMN alterations induced by childhood trauma, and clarify its implications for psychiatric pathogenesis and early prevention strategies.
The Use of Helplines and Telehealth Support in Aotearoa/New Zealand During COVID-19 Pandemic Control Measures: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Pavlova Alina , Witt Katrina , Scarth Bonnie , Fleming Theresa , Kingi-Uluave Denise , Sharma Vartika , Hetrick Sarah , Fortune Sarah
Published: January 2022

Background

Early evidence suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic and associated interventions have affected mental well-being and associated health service use.

Aims

the aim of this study was to examine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health measures on helpline and telehealth service demand.

Methods

the study utilized a mixed methods research design. Segmented regression analyses were used first to identify changes in patterns of demand for Aotearoa/New Zealand national helplines (n = 11) from January 2020 until the end of March 2021. Thematic analysis of 23 in-depth interviews was used next to explore the reasons behind the quantitative findings from the perspective of various organizational stakeholders.

Results

the data from 1,244,293 Aotearoa/New Zealand national helplines' contacts between January 2020 and March 2021 showed a non-significant (1.4%) upward trend for the full range of observations. Throughout this period, a peak and trough pattern was observed. Significant demand increases were observed in anticipation of containment measures (12.4% increase from January to March 2020) and significant demand decreases coincided with relaxation of restrictions (6.9% decrease from April to June 2020). There were spikes in demand during public health interventions (i.e., mental health promotion, introduction of new helpline services) and regional lockdowns, but these did not result in significant changes in trends. In general, the demand for helplines stabilized at a new higher level. Most of the contacts occurred by telephone calls. Contacts by other methods (webchat, text, email) have shown higher uptake during the periods of lockdowns. Quantitative-qualitative data triangulation showed that youth and populations who were disproportionally negatively affected by unstable economic conditions and underemployment made more frequent contacts. Providers emphasized that increased demand could be viewed positively as a successful outcome of public health messaging; however, greater capacity is needed to better serve higher demand.

Conclusions

COVID-19, related interventions, and measures of control were associated with an increase in contacts to helplines. However, the extent of the demand increases was lower than observed internationally. Moreover, in Aotearoa/New Zealand the reasons for increases in demand were often beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and measures of control.
Needs and Experiences in Psychiatric Treatment (NEPT)- Piloting a Collaboratively Generated, Initial Research Tool to Evaluate Cross-Sectoral Mental Health Services
Authors: von Peter Sebastian , Krispin Helene , Kato Glück Rosa , Ziegenhagen Jenny , Göppert Lena , Jänchen Patrick , Schmid Christine , Neumann Anne , Baum Fabian , Soltmann Bettina , Heinze Martin , Schwarz Julian , Beeker Timo , Ignatyev Yuriy
Published: January 2022

Background

Research tools to evaluate institutions or interventions in the field of mental health have rarely been constructed by researchers with personal experience of using the mental health system (“experiential expertise”). This paper presents a preliminary tool that has been developed within a participatory-collaborative process evaluation as part of a controlled, multi-center, prospective cohort study (PsychCare) to evaluate psychiatric flexible and integrative treatment, FIT for short, models in Germany.

Method

The collaborative research team consisting of researchers with and without experiential expertise developed 12 experiential program components of FIT models by an iterative research process based on the Grounded Theory Methodology. These components were transformed into a preliminary research tool that was evaluated by a participatory expert panel, and during a pilot and validation study, the latter using a random sample of 327 users from 14 mental health departments. Internal consistency of the tool was tested using Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was evaluated using a Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and a Jonckheere Terpstra test in relation to different implementation levels of the FIT model. Concurrent validity was tested against a German version of the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (ZUF-8) using correlation analysis and a linear regression model.

Results

The evaluation of the expert panel reduced 29 initial items to 16 that were further reduced to 11 items during the pilot study, resulting into a research tool (Needs and Experiences in Psychiatric Treatment—NEPT) that demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha of 0.89). PCA yielded a 1-component structure, which accounted for 49% of the total variance supporting the unidimensional structure of the tool. The total NEPT score increased alongside the increasing implementation of the FIT model (p < 0.05). There was evidence (p < 0.001) for convergent validity assessed against the ZUF-8 as criterion measure.

Conclusions

The NEPT tool seems to be promising for further development to assess the experiences with and fulfillment of needs of psychiatric care models from the perspective of users. This paper demonstrates that it is possible to use a participatory-collaborative approach within the methodologically rigorous confines of a prospective, controlled research design.
Evidence for Schizophrenia-Specific Pathophysiology of Nicotine Dependence
Authors: Ward Heather Burrell , Beermann Adam , Nawaz Uzma , Halko Mark A. , Janes Amy C. , Moran Lauren V. , Brady Roscoe O.
Published: January 2022

Tobacco use is the top preventable cause of early mortality in schizophrenia. Over 60% of people with schizophrenia smoke, three times the general prevalence. The biological basis of this increased risk is not understood, and existing interventions do not target schizophrenia-specific pathology. We therefore used a connectome-wide analysis to identify schizophrenia-specific circuits of nicotine addiction. We reanalyzed data from two studies: In Cohort 1, 35 smokers (18 schizophrenia, 17 control) underwent resting-state fMRI and clinical characterization. A multivariate pattern analysis of whole-connectome data was used to identify the strongest links between cigarette use and functional connectivity. In Cohort 2, 12 schizophrenia participants and 12 controls were enrolled in a randomized, controlled crossover study of nicotine patch with resting-state fMRI. We correlated change in network functional connectivity with nicotine dose. In Cohort 1, the strongest (p < 0.001) correlate between connectivity and cigarette use was driven by individual variation in default mode network (DMN) topography. In individuals with greater daily cigarette consumption, we observed a pathological expansion of the DMN territory into the identified parieto-occipital region, while in individuals with lower daily cigarette consumption, this region was external to the DMN. This effect was entirely driven by schizophrenia participants. Given the relationship between DMN topography and nicotine use we observed in Cohort 1, we sought to directly test the impact of nicotine on this network using an independent second cohort. In Cohort 2, nicotine reduced DMN connectivity in a dose-dependent manner (R = −0.50; 95% CI −0.75 to −0.12, p < 0.05). In the placebo condition, schizophrenia subjects had hyperconnectivity compared to controls (p < 0.05). Nicotine administration normalized DMN hyperconnectivity in schizophrenia. We here provide direct evidence that the biological basis of nicotine dependence is different in schizophrenia and in non-schizophrenia populations. Our results suggest the high prevalence of nicotine use in schizophrenia may be an attempt to correct a network deficit known to interfere with cognition.
Influence of Professional Identity on the E-Learning Adaptability Among Chinese Nursing Students During COVID-19
Authors: Wang Huixiao , Yang Mingying
Published: January 2022

Background

The traditional face-to-face education methods have been altered to E-learning due to the outbreak, and the E-learning adaptability of nursing students will directly affect the effectiveness of online education. The professional identity of nursing students refers to the positive perception, evaluation, and emotional experience of the nursing profession and identity to be undertaken, which may affect the E-learning adaptability of nursing students during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aimed to explore the impact of professional identity on the E-learning adaptability of the Chinese nursing students during COVID-19.

Methods

This study was conducted in three medical schools in Yunnan Province, China from August to October 2020. Data collection consisted of three sections: participants' characteristics, learning adaptability, and professional identity.

Results

A total of 585 nursing students had a moderate level of E-learning adaptability. There was a positive correlation between E-learning adaptability and professional identity (r = 0.316~0.505, p < 0.001). In addition, the professional identity was associated with predictors of the E-learning adaptability among nursing students (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

There was a moderate level of E-learning adaptability among the Chinese nursing students during the COVID-19 crisis. Enhancing the professional identity is critical in improving the E-learning adaptability among nursing students.
Acceptability of COVID-19 Vaccine Among Hospital Employees in the Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics in the University Hospitals of Geneva, Switzerland
Authors: Peirolo Anna , Posfay-Barbe Klara M. , Rohner Dominic , Wagner Noémie , Blanchard-Rohner Geraldine
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

COVID-19 vaccination has been in the spotlight for almost a year now, both within the scientific community and in the general population. The issue of healthcare workers' (HCWs) hesitancy is particularly salient, given that they are at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19. Not only could unvaccinated HCW spread the disease, but HCWs are also critical messengers in building confidence towards COVID-19 vaccines. The goal of this study was to examine the perception of COVID-19 risk and of its vaccine acceptance among employees (i.e., HCW plus administrative staff) in the Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics at the University Hospitals of Geneva, for the purpose of drawing lessons on the determinants of vaccination morale.

Methods

We conducted an anonymous online survey comparing vaccination attitudes among vaccinated and unvaccinated workers in June 2021. It included questions on perception of COVID-19 risks and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccination was not mandatory in our institution but was strongly recommended.

Results

In June 2021, 66% of the 1,800 employees of our department had received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine by the time of the survey. Among the employees, 776 participated (43%) to the survey, and among them 684 (88%) had chosen to be vaccinated. Participants working for longer in a hospital, with a chronic disease and a household contact with chronic disease were more likely to be vaccinated. Doctors were twice as likely to be vaccinated than nurses. Among unvaccinated hospital employees, 48 (52%) responded that they would not change their mind. Further, 35 (38%) were not feeling in danger of contracting severe COVID-19, and 32 (35%) had fears about possible side effects of COVID-19 vaccines that they wanted to discuss with a specialist.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that, while two-third of the employees had been vaccinated, quite many were still hesitant. The unvaccinated explained their choice by not feeling at risk of complicated COVID-19, and because of fear of possible side effects associated with the vaccine. Investments in COVID-19 vaccine education is a critical component for increasing vaccine acceptance among the unvaccinated.
Factors Associated With Early Elementary Child Health-Related Quality of Life: The Generation R Study
Authors: You Yueyue , van Grieken Amy , Estévez-López Fernando , Yang-Huang Junwen , Raat Hein
Published: January 2022

Aim

To identify the factors associated with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among early elementary age children (5–6 years) from a general population sample.

Methods

We analyzed data of 4,202 children from the Generation R Study, a population-based cohort study in the Netherlands. Children's physical and psychosocial HRQOL were measured using the Child Health Questionnaire Parent Form 28 (CHQ-PF28). Associations between socio-demographic characteristics (child age, sex, ethnic background, family situation, parental educational level, parental employment status, and net household income), health-related lifestyle behaviors (physical activity and screen time), health conditions (number of chronic conditions, emotional and behavioral problems, and family functioning) and children's physical and psychosocial HRQOL were assessed using multivariate regression analyses.

Results

Mean child age was 6.0 years (SD: 0.43); 63.6% had a majority (Dutch) ethnic background. Children with a non-western ethnic background, and children of unemployed mothers had a lower physical HRQOL (all p < 0.05). Older children, boys, and children from single-parent or low educated families had a lower psychosocial HRQOL (all p < 0.05). Children from a low income household family, children having chronic conditions or emotional and behavioral problems, or from families with relatively high “pathological family functioning” reported both lower physical and psychosocial HRQOL (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Indicators of adverse socioeconomic and family circumstances and indicators of child health problems were associated with lower HRQOL. Public health initiatives to improve HRQOL of children should prioritize children from a low socioeconomic status or with less favorable health conditions from early age onwards.
The Role of Debt in the Maintenance of Homelessness
Authors: Maguire Nick
Published: January 2022

Debt is highly prevalent within the homeless population. This narrative review makes use of a varied literature to explore the relationship between debt and homelessness, focussing particularly on organisational (systemic) and individual factors and formulating the relationship between the two. A number of forms of debt and the causes of that debt are explored, in terms of individual factors such as motivation and organisational factors such as inflexible rent protocols. These factors are considered within the context of the cash economy operated by people who are homeless, together with the survival behaviours that drive such a way of operating. Conclusions are drawn about the nature of interventions and how individual psychological approaches to motivation need to be taken into account.
Analyzing COVID-19 Vaccination Behavior Using an SEIRM/V Epidemic Model With Awareness Decay
Authors: Zuo Chao , Zhu Fenping , Ling Yuting
Published: January 2022

Information awareness about COVID-19 spread through multiple channels can stimulate individuals to vaccinate to protect themselves and reduce the infection rate. However, the awareness individuals may lose competency over time due to the decreasing quality of the information and fading of awareness. This paper introduces awareness programs, which can not only change people from unaware to aware state, but also from aware to unaware state. Then an SEIRM/V mathematical model is derived to study the influence of awareness programs on individual vaccination behavior. We evaluate the dynamical evolution of the system model and perform the numerical simulation, and examine the effects of awareness transformation based on the COVID-19 vaccination case in China. The results show that awareness spread through various information sources is positively associated with epidemic containment while awareness fading negatively correlates with vaccination coverage.
Formal Modelling and Runtime Verification of Autonomous Grasping for Active Debris Removal
Authors: Farrell Marie , Mavrakis Nikos , Ferrando Angelo , Dixon Clare , Gao Yang
Published: January 2022

Active debris removal in space has become a necessary activity to maintain and facilitate orbital operations. Current approaches tend to adopt autonomous robotic systems which are often furnished with a robotic arm to safely capture debris by identifying a suitable grasping point. These systems are controlled by mission-critical software, where a software failure can lead to mission failure which is difficult to recover from since the robotic systems are not easily accessible to humans. Therefore, verifying that these autonomous robotic systems function correctly is crucial. Formal verification methods enable us to analyse the software that is controlling these systems and to provide a proof of correctness that the software obeys its requirements. However, robotic systems tend not to be developed with verification in mind from the outset, which can often complicate the verification of the final algorithms and systems. In this paper, we describe the process that we used to verify a pre-existing system for autonomous grasping which is to be used for active debris removal in space. In particular, we formalise the requirements for this system using the Formal Requirements Elicitation Tool (FRET). We formally model specific software components of the system and formally verify that they adhere to their corresponding requirements using the Dafny program verifier. From the original FRET requirements, we synthesise runtime monitors using ROSMonitoring and show how these can provide runtime assurances for the system. We also describe our experimentation and analysis of the testbed and the associated simulation. We provide a detailed discussion of our approach and describe how the modularity of this particular autonomous system simplified the usually complex task of verifying a system post-development.
Specific Types of Physical Exercises, Dietary Preferences, and Obesity Patterns With the Incidence of Hypertension: A 26-years Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhao Fayun , Zhao Qiang , Wang Kun , Kong Shenke , Ma Peiyao , Huang Bingsen , Du Changchun
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To examine the associations of specific types of physical exercises, dietary preferences, and obesity patterns with incident hypertension.

Methods: In this cohort study, obesity patterns were defined using general and abdominal obesity as G-/A-, G+/A- or G-/A+, and G+/A+. The type of physical exercises and dietary preferences were collected using a validated questionnaire. Participants with systemic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg/90 mmHg, use of antihypertensive medications, or a self-reported diagnosis were identified as hypertension.

Results: There were 10,713 participants in this study. Martial arts, gymnastics, and ping pong could decrease the risk of hypertension (HR: 0.792, 0.884, and 0.855; and 95% CI: 0.743–0.845, 0.825–0.948, and 0.767–0.953, respectively). However, TV or computer usage, and consumption of fast food, soft/sugared drinks, and salty snack food could increase incident hypertension (HR: 1.418, 1.381, 1.233, and 1.225; and 95% CI: 1.315–1.529, 1.269–1.504, 1.157–1.314, and 1.139–1.316, respectively). Obese subjects had an increased risk of hypertension.

Conclusion: The type of physical exercises, dietary preferences, and obesity patterns were associated with incident hypertension. More attention should be paid to these lifestyles to benefit health outcomes.
Electric-Field Induced Doping Polarity Conversion in Top-Gated Transistor Based on Chemical Vapor Deposition of Graphene
Authors: Peng Songang , Zhang Jing , Jin Zhi , Zhang Dayong , Shi Jingyuan , Wei Shuhua
Published: January 2022

The top-gated graphene field effect transistor (GFET) with electric-field induced doping polarity conversion has been demonstrated. The polarity of channel conductance in GFET can be transition from p-type to n-type through altering the gate electric field scanning range. Further analysis indicates that this complementary doping is attributed to the charge exchange between graphene and interface trap sites. The oxygen vacancies in Al2O3filmare are considered to be the origin of the trap sites. The trapping–detrapping process, which may be tuned by the electric field across the metal/oxide/graphene gate stack, could lead to the changing of the intrinsic electric property of graphene. This study promises to produce the complementary p- and n-type GFET for logic applications.
The Expression Quantitative Trait Loci in Immune Response Genes Impact the Characteristics and Survival of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Chan Ren-Hao , Chen Po-Chuan , Yeh Yu-Min , Lin Bo-Wen , Yang Kai-Di , Shen Meng-Ru , Lin Peng-Chan
Published: January 2022

The impact of germline variants on the regulation of the expression of tumor microenvironment (TME)-based immune response genes remains unclear. Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) provide insight into the effect of downstream target genes (eGenes) regulated by germline-associated variants (eVariants). Through eQTL analyses, we illustrated the relationships between germline eVariants, TME-based immune response eGenes, and clinical outcomes. In this study, both RNA sequencing data from primary tumor and germline whole-genome sequencing data were collected from patients with stage III colorectal cancer (CRC). Ninety-nine high-risk subjects were subjected to immune response gene expression analyses. Seventy-seven subjects remained for further analysis after quality control, of which twenty-two patients (28.5%) experienced tumor recurrence. We found that 65 eQTL, including 60 germline eVariants and 22 TME-based eGenes, impacted the survival of cancer patients. For the recurrence prediction model, 41 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) achieved the best area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.93. In total, 19 survival-associated eGenes were identified among the DEGs. Most of these genes were related to the regulation of lymphocytes and cytokines. A high expression of HGF, CCR5, IL18, FCER1G, TDO2, IFITM2, and LAPTM5 was significantly associated with a poor prognosis. In addition, the FCER1G eGene was associated with tumor invasion, tumor nodal stage, and tumor site. The eVariants that regulate the TME-based expression of FCER1G, including rs2118867 and rs12124509, were determined to influence survival and chromatin binding preferences. We also demonstrated that FCER1G and co-expressed genes in TME were related to the aggregation of leukocytes via pathway analysis. By analyzing the eQTL from the cancer genome using germline variants and TME-based RNA sequencing, we identified the eQTL in immune response genes that impact colorectal cancer characteristics and survival.
Direct Chromosome Preparation Method in Avian Embryos for Cytogenetic Studies: Quick, Easy and Cheap
Authors: Barcellos Suziane Alves , de Souza Marcelo Santos , Tura Victoria , Pereira Larissa Rodrigues , Kretschmer Rafael , Gunski Ricardo José , Garnero Analía Del Valle
Published: January 2022

Avian cell culture is widely applied for cytogenetic studies, the improvement of which increasingly allows for the production of high-quality chromosomes, essential to perform both classical and molecular cytogenetic studies. Among these approaches, there are two main types: fibroblast and bone marrow culture. Despite its high cost and complexity, fibroblast culture is considered the superior approach due to the quality of the metaphases produced. Short-term bone marrow cultivation provides more condensed chromosomes but nonetheless is quicker and easier. In the search for a quicker, cheaper way to prepare metaphases without losing quality, the present work developed a novel, widely applicable protocol for avian chromosome preparation. Twenty-one bird embryos from distinct families were sampled: Icteridae, Columbidae, Furnariidae, Estrildidae, Thraupidae, Troglodytidae and Ardeidae. The protocol was based on a combination of modified fibroblast culture and bone marrow cultivation, taking the advantages of both. The results show that all species consistently presented good mitotic indexes and high-quality chromosomes. Overall, the application of this protocol for bird cytogenetics can optimize the time, considering that most fibroblast cultures take at least 3 days and often much longer. However, our protocol can be performed in 3 h with a much-reduced cost of reagents and equipment.
Assessment of Thermophysical Performance of Ester-Based Nanofluids for Enhanced Insulation Cooling in Transformers
Authors: Khan Suhaib Ahmad , Tariq Mohd , Khan Asfar Ali , Alamri Basem , Mihet-Popa Lucian
Published: January 2022

Nanotechnology provides an effective way to upgrade the thermophysical characteristics of dielectric oils and creates optimal transformer design. The properties of insulation materials have a significant effect on the optimal transformer design. Ester-based nanofluids (NF) are introduced as an energy-efficient alternative to conventional mineral oils, prepared by dispersing nanoparticles in the base oil. This study presents the effect of nanoparticles on the thermophysical properties of pure natural ester (NE) and synthetic ester (SE) oils with temperature varied from ambient temperature up to 80 °C. A range of concentrations of graphene oxide (GO) and TiO2 nanoparticles were used in the study to upgrade the thermophysical properties of ester-based oils. The experiments for thermal conductivity and viscosity were performed using a TC-4 apparatus that follows Debby’s concept and a redwood viscometer apparatus that follows the ASTM-D445 experimental standard, respectively. The experimental results show that nanoparticles have a positive effect on the thermal conductivity and viscosity of oils which reduces with an increase in temperature.
Can Agents Model Hydrocarbon Migration for Petroleum System Analysis? A Fast Screening Tool to De-Risk Hydrocarbon Prospects
Authors: Steffens Bastian , Corlay Quentin , Suurmeyer Nathan , Noglows Jessica , Arnold Dan , Demyanov Vasily
Published: January 2022

Understanding subsurface hydrocarbon migration is a crucial task for petroleum geoscientists. Hydrocarbons are released from deeply buried and heated source rocks, such as shales with a high organic content. They then migrate upwards through the overlying lithologies. Some hydrocarbon becomes trapped in suitable geological structures that, over a geological timescale, produce viable hydrocarbon reservoirs. This work investigates how intelligent agent models can mimic these complex natural subsurface processes and account for geological uncertainty. Physics-based approaches are commonly used in petroleum system modelling and flow simulation software to identify migration pathways from source rocks to traps. However, the problem with these simulations is that they are computationally demanding, making them infeasible for extensive uncertainty quantification. In this work, we present a novel dynamic screening tool for secondary hydrocarbon migration that relies on agent-based modelling. It is fast and is therefore suitable for uncertainty quantification, before using petroleum system modelling software for a more accurate evaluation of migration scenarios. We first illustrate how interacting but independent agents can mimic the movement of hydrocarbon molecules using a few simple rules by focusing on the main drivers of migration: buoyancy and capillary forces. Then, using a synthetic case study, we validate the usefulness of the agent modelling approach to quantify the impact of geological parameter uncertainty (e.g., fault transmissibility, source rock location, expulsion rate) on potential hydrocarbon accumulations and migrations pathways, an essential task to enable quick de-risking of a likely prospect.