bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intact glycopeptides identified by LC-MS/MS as biomarkers for response to chemotherapy of locally advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Li Jing , Feng Xiaoxiao , Zhu Chongying , Jiang Yahui , Liu Hua , Feng Weiwei , Lu Haojie
Published: July 2023

Objective

For locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC), patients who respond to chemotherapy have a potential survival advantage compared to nonresponsive patients. Thus, it is necessary to explore specific biological markers for the efficacy of chemotherapy, which is beneficial to personalized treatment.

Methods

In the present study, we performed a comprehensive screening of site-specific N-glycopeptides in serum glycoproteins to identify glycopeptide markers for predicting the efficacy of chemotherapy, which is beneficial to personalized treatment. In total, 20 serum samples before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) from 10 LACC patients (NACT response, n=6) and NACT nonresponse, n=4) cases) were analyzed using LC-MS/MS, and 20 sets of mass spectrometry (MS) data were collected using liquid chromatography coupled with high-energy collisional dissociation tandem MS (LC-HCD-MS/MS) for quantitative analysis on the novel software platform, Byos. We also identified differential glycopeptides before and after chemotherapy in chemo-sensitive and chemo-resistant patients.

Results

In the present study, a total of 148 glycoproteins, 496 glycosylation sites and 2279 complete glycopeptides were identified in serum samples of LACC patients. Before and after chemotherapy, there were 13 differentially expressed glycoproteins, 654 differentially expressed glycopeptides and 93 differentially expressed glycosites in the NACT responsive group, whereas there were 18 differentially expressed glycoproteins, 569 differentially expressed glycopeptides and 99 differentially expressed glycosites in the NACT nonresponsive group. After quantitative analysis, 6 of 570 glycopeptides were identified as biomarkers for predicting the sensitivity of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in LACC. The corresponding glycopeptides included MASP1, LUM, ATRN, CO8A, CO8B and CO6. The relative abundances of the six glycopeptides, including MASP1, LUM, ATRN, CO8A, CO8B and CO6, were significantly higher in the NACT-responsive group and were significantly decreased after chemotherapy. High levels of these six glycopeptides may indicate that chemotherapy is effective. Thus, these glycopeptides are expected to serve as biomarkers for predicting the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer.

Conclusion

The present study revealed that the N-glycopeptide of MASP1, LUM, ATRN, CO8A, CO8B and CO6 may be potential biomarkers for predicting the efficacy of chemotherapy for cervical cancer.
Pediatric diencephalic tumors: a constellation of entities and management modalities
Authors: Pinto Soniya N. , Chiang Jason , Qaddoumi Ibrahim , Livingston David , Bag Asim
Published: July 2023

The diencephalon is a complex midline structure consisting of the hypothalamus, neurohypophysis, subthalamus, thalamus, epithalamus, and pineal body. Tumors arising from each of these diencephalic components differ significantly in terms of biology and prognosis. The aim of this comprehensive review is to describe the epidemiology, clinical symptoms, imaging, histology, and molecular markers in the context of the 2021 WHO classification of central nervous system neoplasms. We will also discuss the current management of each of these tumors.
Identify and validate RUNX2 and LAMA2 as novel prognostic signatures and correlate with immune infiltrates in bladder cancer
Authors: Jin Yi , Huang Siwei , Wang Zhanwang
Published: July 2023

Background

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) develops lymph node (LN) metastasis or distant metastasis, leading to recurrence and poor prognosis. The five-year survival rate of MIBC with LN or distant metastasis is only 8.1%; therefore, there is an urgent need to identify reliable biomarkers for prognosis and treatment regimen for patients with bladder cancer (BLCA).

Methods

SEER database was used to select important clinical characteristics for MIBC. Then, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was employed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) to recognize significant co-expression modules by calculating the correlation between the modules and clinical data. Furthermore, Cox regression and lasso analysis were applied to screen prognostic hub genes and establish the risk predictive model. Bladder cancer cell lines (UMUC3 and 5637) were used for experimental validation in vitro.

Results

Cox analysis of 122,600 MIBC patients showed that the N stage was the most important clinical factor. A total of 4,597 DEGs were calculated between N0 and N+ patients, and WGCNA with these DEGs in 368 samples revealed that expression of turquoise was positively and strongly correlated with the N stage. Eight genes were identified as important prognostic candidates using lasso regression based on Cox analysis and STRING database. Combining GEO datasets, literature, and clinical factors, we identified LAMA2 and RUNX2 as novel prognostic biomarkers. CCK8 assay showed that depletion of LAMA2 or RUNX2 significantly inhibited the proliferation of BLCA cells, and flow cytometry indicated that knockdown of LAMA2 or RUNX2 induced the apoptosis of BLCA cells. Transwell assay also showed that silencing of LAMA2 or RUNX2 weakened the migration and invasiveness of BLCA cells.

Conclusions

We constructed a new eight-gene risk model to provide novel prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for BLCA.
Congenital hepatoblastoma presenting with hepatic arteriovenous fistulas: a case report
Authors: Lin Jiao , Guo Jialing , Chen Chun , Jiang Liqiong , Lai Can , Wang Chunlin
Published: July 2023

Aim

Congenital hepatoblastoma, a rare malignant liver tumor in infancy, typically presents with abdominal distension or mass. Tumors detected antenatally or during the first three months of age are considered congenital hepatoblastoma. Hepatic arteriovenous fistulas (HAVF) are associated with high mortality in the neonatal period and can be caused by many secondary factors. This case report focuses on a patient with congenital hepatoblastoma accompanied by HAVF, highlighting the clinical and imaging characteristics and management strategies.

Case presentation

A term infant presented with sudden tachypnea and heart failure on his first day of life. A cystic-solid mixed lesion in the fetus’s liver was detected by an antenatal ultrasound scan. Postnatal digital subtraction angiography confirmed the presence of arteriovenous fistulas, which were treated with trans-arterial embolization. However, despite the intervention, the patient’s heart failure did not improve. The patient underwent a left hepatectomy, and hepatoblastoma was discovered by histology of the resected hepatic lobe. Unfortunately, metastases were later discovered in the intracranial and ocular regions. Ultimately, the family decided to discontinue further treatment.

Conclusion

Congenital hepatoblastoma presenting with hepatic arteriovenous fistulas has not been previously described. Hepatoblastoma should be considered when alpha-fetoprotein levels show a significant elevation in newborns. Prenatal diagnosis may improve pre- and postnatal management.
Renal mitochondrial restoration by gymnemic acid in gentamicin-mediated experimental nephrotoxicity: evidence from serum, kidney and histopathological alterations
Authors: Gumbar Shubhangi , Bhardwaj Sudeep , Mehan Sidharth , Khan Zuber , Narula Acharan S. , Kalfin Reni , Tabrez Shams , Zughaibi Torki A. , Wasi Samina
Published: July 2023

Background: Nephrotoxicity refers to the toxigenic impact of compounds and medications on kidney function. There are a variety of drug formulations, and some medicines that may affect renal function in multiple ways via nephrotoxins production. Nephrotoxins are substances that are harmful to the kidneys.

Purpose: This investigation examines the renoprotective effect of gymnemic acid (GA) on Wistar rats in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity by analyzing serum, kidney, and histopathological markers.

Study-design/methods: The current study investigated the protective effect of GA at doses of 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Vitamin E was administered to compare the antioxidant capacity and efficacy of GA. In addition to the treatment groups, 100 mg/kg of gentamicin was administered intraperitoneal for 14 days. At the end of the study protocol, kidney homogenate, blood, and serum were evaluated biochemically. Serum creatinine, blood urea, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), mitochondrial dysfunctions, inflammatory cytokines, and renal oxidative stress were examined to assess gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity. In addition, the impact of GA on the above-mentioned nephrotoxic markers were evaluated and further confirmed by histological analysis.

Results: This study establishes a correlation between antibiotic use, especifically aminoglycosides and acute renal failure. The research demonstrates the nephrotoxic effects of aminoglycosides, inducing mitochondrial ETC-complex dysfunction, and renal tissue inflammation in experimental rats. GA’s antioxidant properties restored renal oxidative stress markers, reducing kidney inflammation and injury. Histopathological analysis revealed a significant reduction in renal injury with GA treatment. Additionally, GA demonstrated greater efficacy than Vitamin E in restoring antioxidant potential and mitochondrial enzymes.

Conclusion: Consequently, our findings imply that long-term use of GA may be a suitable therapeutic strategy for reducing aminoglycoside toxicity. The current study suggests GA’s potential in treating gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity and acute renal failure, meriting further investigation using advanced techniques.
Accurate segmentation of infrared images for circuit board diagnosis using an improved Deeplabv3+ network
Authors: Hao Jianxin , Xia Xuan , Wang Li , Li Zhixin , Zhu Meng
Published: July 2023

An effective infrared image segmentation algorithm is essential for non-contact fault diagnosis of circuit boards. However, the uneven grayscale of the infrared images, multiple target regions, and large radiation noise pose challenges to achieving accurate segmentation and efficient data extraction for the interested regions. In this paper, we propose a segmentation algorithm based on the Deeplabv3+ network, using the lightweight MobileNetV2 as a replacement for the original Xception backbone network to improve computational efficiency and reduce overfitting. We also employ a composite loss function and cosine annealing learning rate to balance foreground-background segmentation and avoid local optima. Furthermore, we integrate the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) to extract and combine important spatial and channel features, allowing the algorithm to focus on identifying elements of the circuit board instead of background pixels, thereby improving segmentation accuracy. Experimental results demonstrate that our proposed algorithm achieves state-of-the-art performance in terms of both segmentation accuracy and computational efficiency on our self-built infrared circuit board dataset, with a MIoU of 90.34%, MPA of 95.26%, and processing speed of 25.19 fps. Overall, our proposed segmentation algorithm can effectively identify the key regions of interest in infrared images of circuit boards, providing technical support for non-contact diagnosis.
Bayesian optimization for design of high-repetition-rate laser-driven muon source
Authors: Sha Rong , Wang Bing-Lin , Zhao Jie , Duan Xiao-Jun , Yan Liang , Xia Guo-Xing , Yu Tong-Pu
Published: July 2023

With the increasing repetition rate of ultra-intense laser pulses, ion beams accelerated by these lasers show great potential for achieving high-repetition-rate, high-average-flux muon sources. Nonetheless, generating high-quality ion beams is a challenging feat as it demands a careful balance among numerous physical effects. In this study, we utilize Bayesian optimization to fine-tune laser and plasma parameters to produce high-charge energetic ion beams, consequently leading to a high-yield muon source via pitcher-catcher scheme. Beginning with initial points steered by Latin hypercube sampling, Bayesian optimization conducts an adaptive, multi-parameter exploration of input parameter space, significantly faster than univariate uniform scans, and results in a mm-scale ps-duration laser-ion-based muon source scheme providing 106π± and 104μ+ at a 10 Hz frequency, using only several tens of simulations.
Strategies for identifying stable lentil cultivars (Lens culinaris Medik) for combating hidden hunger, malnourishment, and climate variability
Authors: Aski Muraleedhar S. , Mishra Gyan Prakash , Tokkas Jayanti P. , Yadav Prachi S. , Rai Neha , Bansal Ruchi , Singh Akanksha , Gupta Sanjeev , Kumar Jitendra , Parihar Ashok , Kumar Shiv , Kumar Vinod , Saxsena Ashok Kumar , Das Tapas Ranjan , Kumar Anil , Dikshit Harsh Kumar
Published: July 2023

Iron and zinc malnutrition is a global humanitarian concern that mostly affects newborns, children, and women in low- and middle-income countries where plant-based diets are regularly consumed. This kind of malnutrition has the potential to result in a number of immediate and long-term implications, including stunted growth, an elevated risk of infectious diseases, and poor development, all of which may ultimately cause children to not develop to the fullest extent possible. A determination of the contributions from genotype, environment, and genotype by environment interactions is necessary for the production of nutrient-dense lentil varieties that offer greater availability of iron and zinc with a high level of trait stability. Understanding the genotype and environmental parameters that affect G x E (Genotype x Environment) interactions is essential for plant breeding. We used GGE(Genotype, Genotype x Environment interactions) and AMMI (Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction) models to study genetic stability and GE(Genotype x Environment interactions) for grain Fe, Zn, Al, and anti-nutritional factors like phytic acid content in sixteen commercially produced lentil cultivars over several different six geographical locations across India. Significant genetic variability was evident in the Fe and Zn levels of different genotypes of lentils. The amounts of grain iron, zinc, and phytic acid varied from 114.10 to 49.90 mg/kg, 74.62 to 21.90 mg/kg, and 0.76 to 2.84 g/100g (dw) respectively. The environment and GE (Genotype x Environment interactions) had an impact on the concentration of grain Fe, Zn, and phytic acid (PA). Heritability estimations ranged from low to high (53.18% to 99.48%). The study indicated strong correlation between the contents of Fe and Zn, a strategy for simultaneously increasing Fe and Zn in lentils may be recommended. In addition, our research revealed that the stable and ideal lentil varieties L4076 (Pusa Shivalik) for Fe concentration and L4717 (Pusa Ageti) for Zn content, which have lower phytic acid contents, will not only play an essential role as stable donors in the lentil bio-fortification but will also enable the expansion of the growing area of bio-fortified crops for the security of health and nutrition.
Comparative genomic analysis of 5Mg chromosome of Aegilops geniculata and 5Uu chromosome of Aegilops umbellulata reveal genic diversity in the tertiary gene pool
Authors: Yadav Inderjit S. , Rawat Nidhi , Chhuneja Parveen , Kaur Satinder , Uauy Christobal , Lazo Gerard , Gu Yong Q. , Doležel Jaroslav , Tiwari Vijay K.
Published: July 2023

Wheat is one of the most important cereal crops for the global food security. Due to its narrow genetic base, modern bread wheat cultivars face challenges from increasing abiotic and biotic stresses. Since genetic improvement is the most sustainable approach, finding novel genes and alleles is critical for enhancing the genetic diversity of wheat. The tertiary gene pool of wheat is considered a gold mine for genetic diversity as novel genes and alleles can be identified and transferred to wheat cultivars. Aegilops geniculata and Ae. umbellulata are the key members of the tertiary gene pool of wheat and harbor important genes against abiotic and biotic stresses. Homoeologous-group five chromosomes (5Uu and 5Mg) have been extensively studied from Ae. geniculata and Ae. umbellulata as they harbor several important genes including Lr57, Lr76, Yr40, Yr70, Sr53 and chromosomal pairing loci. In the present study, using chromosome DNA sequencing and RNAseq datasets, we performed comparative analysis to study homoeologous gene evolution in 5Mg, 5Uu, and group 5 wheat chromosomes. Our findings highlight the diversity of transcription factors and resistance genes, resulting from the differential expansion of the gene families. Both the chromosomes were found to be enriched with the “response to stimulus” category of genes providing resistance against biotic and abiotic stress. Phylogenetic study positioned the M genome closer to the D genome, with higher proximity to the A genome than the B genome. Over 4000 genes were impacted by SNPs on 5D, with 4-5% of those genes displaying non-disruptive variations that affect gene function.
Identification of T-DNA structure and insertion site in transgenic crops using targeted capture sequencing
Authors: Magembe Eric Maina , Li Hui , Taheri Ali , Zhou Suping , Ghislain Marc
Published: July 2023

The commercialization of GE crops requires a rigorous safety assessment, which includes a precise DNA level characterization of inserted T-DNA. In the past, several strategies have been developed for identifying T-DNA insertion sites including, Southern blot and different PCR-based methods. However, these methods are often challenging to scale up for screening of dozens of transgenic events and for crops with complex genomes, like potato. Here, we report using target capture sequencing (TCS) to characterize the T-DNA structure and insertion sites of 34 transgenic events in potato. This T-DNA is an 18 kb fragment between left and right borders and carries three resistance (R) genes (RB, Rpi-blb2 and Rpi-vnt1.1 genes) that result in complete resistance to late blight disease. Using TCS, we obtained a high sequence read coverage within the T-DNA and junction regions. We identified the T-DNA breakpoints on either ends for 85% of the transgenic events. About 74% of the transgenic events had their T-DNA with 3R gene sequences intact. The flanking sequences of the T-DNA were from the potato genome for half of the transgenic events, and about a third (11) of the transgenic events have a single T-DNA insertion mapped into the potato genome, of which five events do not interrupt an existing potato gene. The TCS results were confirmed using PCR and Sanger sequencing for 6 of the best transgenic events representing 20% of the transgenic events suitable for regulatory approval. These results demonstrate the wide applicability of TCS for the precise T-DNA insertion characterization in transgenic crops.
Weed infestation and productivity of wheat crop sown in various cropping systems under conventional and conservation tillage
Authors: Minhas Waqas Ahmed , Mumtaz Naima , Ur-Rehman Hafeez , Farooq Shahid , Farooq Muhammad , Ali Hayssam M. , Hussain Mubshar
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Climate change, pest infestation, and soil degradation are significantly reducing wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield. Wheat is cultivated in rice-wheat and cotton-wheat cropping systems and escalating global population is exerting substantial pressure on the efficiency of these systems. Conservation tillage and crop rotation could help in lowering soil degradation and pest infestation, and improving wheat yield.

Methods

This three-year study evaluated soil properties, weed infestation and wheat yield under various tillage and cropping systems. Six different cropping systems, i.e., cotton-wheat, sorghum-wheat, mungbean-wheat, rice-wheat, sunflower-wheat, and fallow-wheat (control) and three tillage systems, i.e., conventional tillage (CT), zero-tillage (ZT) and minimum tillage (MT) were included in the study.

Results

The individual and interactive effects of tillage and cropping systems significantly affected soil properties, weed infestation and yield of wheat crop. Overall, CT resulted in lower soil bulk density and higher porosity, while ZT behaved oppositely at all locations in this regard. Similarly, mungbean-wheat cropping system resulted in lower bulk density and higher porosity and nitrogen (N) contents, while fallow-wheat cropping system resulted in higher bulk density, and lower soil porosity and N contents. Similarly, ZT and CT resulted in higher and lower weed infestation, respectively. Likewise, lower and higher weed density and biomass were recorded in wheat-sorghum and wheat-fallow cropping systems, respectively at all locations. In the same way higher number of productive tillers, number of grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, grain yield, and economic returns of wheat crop were recorded for CT, whereas ZT resulted in lower values of these traits. Regarding interactions, wheat-mungbean cropping system with CT resulted in lower bulk density and higher porosity and N contents, whereas wheat-fallow system with ZT behaved oppositely at all locations in this regard. Similarly, higher and lower values for yield-related traits and economic returns of wheat crop were noted for mungbean-wheat cropping system under CT and fallow-wheat and sorghum-wheat cropping systems under ZT, respectively. It is concluded that the mungbean-wheat cropping system improved wheat productivity and soil health and sorghum-wheat cropping system could lower weed infestation. Therefore, these cropping systems can be practiced to lower weed infestation and improve wheat yield and economic returns.
If graffiti changed anything, it would be illegal. The influence of political graffiti on the perception of neighborhoods and intergroup attitudes
Authors: Pollmanns Claas , Asbrock Frank
Published: July 2023

In a series of three studies (total N = 956), we examined how political graffiti, which serves as a representation of prevailing social norms, influences the evaluation of social cohesion and neighborhood inhabitants depending on the individuals political orientation. In line with our hypothesis, results of Study 1 (N = 199) indicated that individuals tended to express more positive evaluations of the social cohesion within a neighborhood when the political graffiti aligns with their own political orientation. Conversely, when confronted with counter-attitudinal political graffiti, participants reported lower evaluations of social cohesion. In Study 2, a sensitive scale to assess social cohesion was developed. Study 3 (N = 550) investigated the dose–response relationship of right-wing political graffiti and replicated the results from Study 1. Consistent with our hypotheses, even a minimal presence of right-wing graffiti exerted a significant impact on participants’ evaluations of the neighborhood and interacted with the participants political orientation. Taken together, our studies shed light on the crucial role of the individuals’ own political orientation for the evaluation of neighborhoods and their inhabitants. Furthermore, we offer insights into how these perceptions may influence intergroup attitudes toward foreigners living in Germany. The implications of our findings are highly relevant to ongoing discussions surrounding social norms within neighborhoods. By highlighting the significance of political graffiti as a representation of social norms, our research contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in evaluating neighborhoods and their social fabric.
Effects of emotionally oriented parental interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zahl-Olsen Rune , Severinsen Linda , Stiegler Jan Reidar , Fernee Carina Ribe , Simhan Indra , Rekdal Sondre Sverd , Bertelsen Thomas Bjerregaard
Published: July 2023

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigates the effects of emotionally oriented parental interventions.

Background

Several emotionally oriented parental interventions have been developed during the last decade. Some of these have gained popularity and spread across several continents. The literature is growing and consists of qualitative studies; intervention only, quasi-experimental, case-control studies; and randomized controlled trials. They indicate effects for parents and children. However, no systematic review or meta-analysis has, to our knowledge, summarized the results.

Method

Using several search engines, we located 8,272 studies. After abstract and full-text screening, 33 studies were assessed for bias and included in the study. Outcomes for parents and children were extracted and combined into three constructs for parents and two for children. Meta-analyses were conducted for each construct to estimate the effect of the interventions using a robust Bayes meta-analysis.

Results

The results indicate the presence of a small to medium effect on parents' mental health, behavior, and use of emotionally oriented parenting, as well as on children's internalizing and externalizing difficulties. Most participants were recruited from the general population, and clinical settings were rare. The results show little evidence of publication bias.

Conclusion

There is evidence of a small to medium effect of emotionally oriented interventions on parents and children.

Systematic review registration

https://osf.io/un3q4/.
Efficacy of interpersonal psychotherapy in mainland China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Luhan , Xu Fangzhong , Yu Ge , Li Chong , Wen Sijin , Zheng Wanhong
Published: July 2023

Objective

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) is an evidence-based therapy. There have been increasing demand and training opportunities of IPT in China. Reviewing current evidence on its use in Chinese patients can help us understand the applicability of IPT in China and identify knowledge gaps to encourage and better future research in this field.

Method

We did a comprehensive search of three major electronic databases: PubMed (English), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and WanFang Data (Chinese). We examined overall study design, outcome measures, data analyses and other parameters. We only selected articles of Randomized Clinical Trials (RCT) for this review. All study findings were grouped and summarized per psychiatric diagnoses. The meta-analysis and forest plots were performed whereas studies could be combined.

Results

After a full text review of 132 articles, 40 were selected for the final review. Comparing with control groups, evidences supported the efficacy of IPT in Chinese patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Postpartum depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Post Stress Traumatic Disorder (PTSD), and Post-psychotic Depression. It was also beneficial to college students and Chinese first-time mothers. Meta-analysis using a random-effects model consistently yielded significant score differences between the IPT and control groups (p < 0.0001) on MDD.

Conclusion

This systematic review has identified the current best evidence for IPT efficacy in Chinese population. The findings support IPT as an effective treatment in Chinese with certain psychiatric conditions, consistent with those from many other studies throughout the world.
Demonstration of an app-delivered digital therapeutic program for methamphetamine use disorder
Authors: Muhlner Kristin , DeFlavio Jeff , Ang Alfonso , Zito Michael , McLellan A. Thomas , Perrochet Brian
Published: July 2023

This study assessed the feasibility and utility of a digital, all-virtual program designed for treatment of methamphetamine use disorder (MUD). Forty-nine adults with moderate- to severe-level MUD (per DSM-5 criteria) commenced the 8-week intervention. All aspects of the program were delivered via smartphone-based app. Intervention components included counseling (cognitive behavioral therapy in group and individual sessions), app-based therapeutic tasks, remote biological drug testing, medical oversight by psychiatrists/nurse practitioners, and contingency management procedures (including rewards for methamphetamine-free saliva drug tests, accomplishing tasks, and engaging in assigned activities). Of the 49 participants who commenced treatment, 27 participants (55%) completed the program. Repeated-measures mixed-model analyses show that participants were more likely to test negative for meth use from week 1 to week 8 (OR = 1.57, 95% CI [1.28, 1.97]; p = 0.034). Well-being and social functioning improved among the majority of participants. These results demonstrate the utility of the all-virtual, digital therapeutic program and its ability to help individuals with MUD to reduce or cease methamphetamine use. The program was efficiently implemented and was well received by participants and clinical personnel, indicating its ability to deliver comprehensive, effective care and to retain the difficult-to-engage population of persons with MUD. Of the 27 completers, 16 responded to a 1-month follow-up survey and reported no meth use in the month since completing the program.
Rate and correlates of self-stigma in adult patients with early psychosis
Authors: Chu Ryan Sai Ting , Ng Chung Mun , Chu Sheung Chit , Lui Tsz Ting , Lau Fu Chun , Chan Sherry Kit Wa , Lee Edwin Ho Ming , Hui Christy Lai Ming , Chen Eric Yu Hai , Lui Simon Sai Yu , Chang Wing Chung
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Self-stigma impedes recovery process and is associated with poorer clinical and functional outcomes in people with psychotic disorders. However, there is limited research specifically examining self-stigma in the early stage of illness, and mixed findings were observed regarding factors associated with increased self-stigma. We aimed to investigate the rate and correlates of self-stigma in a cohort of adult patients with early psychosis using a comprehensive array of clinical, treatment and other illness-related variables.

Methods

A total of 101 Chinese adult early psychosis patients aged 26–55 years who had received three-year psychiatric treatment for first psychotic episode in Hong Kong and completed self-stigma assessment were included for the current investigation. A broad range of assessments encompassing socio-demographics, premorbid adjustment, onset and illness profiles, symptom severity, psychosocial functioning, treatment characteristics and medication side-effects were conducted.

Results

Twenty-eight (27.7%) patients had moderate-to-high levels of self-stigma. Univariate linear regression analyses showed that age at study entry, sex, educational level, age at psychosis onset, duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), insight level, global psychosocial functioning, and the use of second-generation antipsychotic were related to self-stigma levels. Final multivariable regression model revealed that female sex, younger age at entry, longer DUP and better insight were independently associated with higher levels of self-stigma.

Conclusion

More than one-fourth of early psychosis patients experienced significant self-stigma, highlighting an unmet need for early detection and intervention of self-stigma in the initial years of illness. Further investigation is warranted to clarify trajectories and predictors of self-stigma in the early illness course.
Vitamin E intake and multiple health outcomes: an umbrella review
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Yi Xianyanling , Li Jin , Zheng Xiaonan , Xu Hang , Liao Dazhou , Ai Jianzhong
Published: July 2023

Background

The benefits of vitamin E (VE) for multiple health outcomes have been well evaluated in many recent studies.

Objective

The purpose of this umbrella review was to conduct a systematic evaluation of the possible associations between VE intake and various health outcomes.

Methods

We systematically searched various databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and the Web of Science, to identify related meta-analyses of observational studies and randomized trials. We estimated the effect size of each association by using the random or fixed effects models and the 95% confidence intervals. We used standard approaches to evaluate the quality of the articles (AMSTAR) and classified the evidence into different levels of quality (GRADE).

Results

A total of 1,974 review articles were searched, and 27 articles with 28 health outcomes were yielded according to our exclusion criteria. The intake of VE was inversely associated with the risk of breast cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, cervical neoplasms, cardiovascular disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, age-related cataracts, metabolic syndrome, and fracture. Overall, most of the quality of the evidence was low or very low. Three outcomes (stroke, age-related cataracts, obesity) were identified as having a “moderate” level of quality. The AMSTAR scores for all health outcomes ranged from 5 to 10.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that VE intake is beneficially related to multiple health outcomes. However, future studies on recommended doses and recommended populations of VE are also needed.

Systematic review registration

http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42022339571.
Quality of adolescent and youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services and associated factors in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zenebe Getachew Assefa , Ewunie Temesgen Muche , Belay Moges Mareg , Abose Abinet Meno
Published: July 2023

Background

Low-quality health care services are linked to a variety of health problems, which can have negative effects on adolescent and youth health. As a result, national data is crucial to providing high-quality healthcare to adolescents and youths in order to promote their health, wellness, and growth.

Objective

To examine the quality of young people's sexual and reproductive health care services and factors associated with service satisfaction in Ethiopia.

Methods

This review was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA guideline. We reviewed published data related to the quality of adolescent and youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services (AYSRHS) in Ethiopia from January 02, 2002 to December 30, 2022. Relevant studies were identified through Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and HINARI. The extracted data was imported into STATA version 14.0 software for analysis. Heterogeneity among the reported prevalence of studies was checked using χ2 and I2 tests. The publication bias was examined by Egger's correlation and Begg's regression intercept tests at a 5% significance level.

Results

The national pooled magnitude of structural, process, and output dimensions of quality of AYSRHS is 54.22% (95% CI: 33.21, 75.24%), 35.44% (95% CI: 24.95, 45.93%), and 57.01% (95% CI: 50.32, 63.7%), respectively. Being female (AOR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.14–2.27), employed (AOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.06–3.14), waiting <30 min to get services (AOR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.69–4.31), and getting information on the availability of services (AOR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.15–2.11) were significantly associated with client satisfaction with AYSRHS.

Conclusion

The overall magnitude of quality of AYSRHS in the three dimensions is far below WHO quality standards, which are 75 percent for good quality. Sex, employment status, waiting time to get services, and information on the availability of services were significantly associated with client satisfaction with AYSRHS. Therefore, different stakeholders on different levels should work together to strengthen the quality of AYSRHS concidering the above factors.

Systematic review registration

Identifier [CRD42023422667].
Conducting quantitative mask fit tests: application details and affecting factors
Authors: Xu Xiaodan , Zhao Liangliang , Zhu Yong , Du Bing , Zhu Baoli , Zhang Hengdong , Han Lei , Liu Xin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Respirators chosen based on their assigned protection factor (APF) enable wearers to effectively reduce particulate matter concentrations to safe levels when used correctly. As a crucial factor in achieving the intended APF, the fit test has become a necessary procedure in respiratory disease protection.

Methods

This study involved 225 participants who underwent a fit test using two reusable types of half masks and two types of full masks. Condensation nuclei counting (CNC) and controlled negative pressure (CNP) were performed.

Results

The results revealed that the passing rate of full masks was higher compared to half masks. Specifically, the passing rate for the half masks and the full masks were 84.7 and 91.6%, respectively. Gender exerted a statistically significant effect on the passing rate. Nevertheless, age, educational background, and training exhibited relatively negligible effects. Certain movements, such as facing forward, were identified as key actions with strong correlation. Additionally, talking was considered a key action with a high failure rate due to instantaneous leakages. Most participants failed at the initial step of CNP, but nearly all of them passed the fit test using CNC.

Discussion

Therefore, putting on full masks, especially for women, provides optimal protection during work. Furthermore, attention should be given to the displacement and deformation of the respirator during the key actions. When it comes to fit test methods, CNC was found to be more practical and comprehensive compared to CNP. Moreover, additional physiological characteristics, such as double chins, could be explored as potential influential factors.
The COVID-19 pandemic and leisure providers—Challenges, opportunities and adaptation strategies for ski area operators in Austria
Authors: Steiger Robert , Graiff Lukas , Peters Mike , Schnitzer Martin
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 crisis and the related nationwide lockdowns reduced the available types of physical activity, especially in the winter season. Besides closed indoor sports facilities, some outdoor sports were also inaccessible because of curfews and/or the closure of outdoor sports facilities. However, in Austria, the operation of alpine ski areas was permitted even during the full lockdown in the winter season 2020/21, albeit under strict hygiene requirements and capacity restrictions. This posed a challenge for ski area operators, with those heavily dependent on foreign multi-day guests facing severe declines in demand due to closed accommodation and closed borders while others were challenged by demand pressures from nearby population centers. We therefore want to examine how Austrian ski area operators managed these challenges, how they evaluated this extraordinary season and whether these new experiences and established measures can be used to improve customer experience in the future. We used a mixed-methods approach with a quantitative survey (n = 65) and follow-up qualitative interviews with managers (n = 20) of Austrian ski areas. For 75% of respondents, the reason for keeping the ski areas open, despite the fact that 95 % suffered average revenue declines of 80%, was to provide an outlet for physical activity for the local population. Respondents noticed a lot of gratitude and growing trust from local customers that could be used to increase the approval of tourism in the local population. The COVID-19 pandemic has also advanced the spread of technological innovations in the cable car industry, such as online ticketing and dynamic pricing. Furthermore, the COVID-19 crisis has continued to drive the sustainability debate around ski resorts. Customers are seeking further deceleration resulting in a stronger focus on qualitative rather than quantitative development for Austrian ski area operators.
In situ measurement and sampling of acidic alteration products at Río Tinto in support of the scientific activity of the Ma_MISS instrument
Authors: Ferrari Marco , De Angelis Simone , Frigeri Alessandro , Bruschini Enrico , Gómez Felipe , De Sanctis Maria Cristina
Published: July 2023

We describe the procedures and results of a geological field analysis campaign in the Río Tinto area. This geologically/biologically well-documented site with its rock/water/biology interaction represents an ideal open-air laboratory where to collect spectral data and samples useful for testing space instruments. During the field campaign, we collected a large set of VIS-NIR (0.35–2.5 μm) measurements using the ASD FieldSpec4 portable spectrometer both on biosignature-bearing rocks and on alteration hydrated products (sulfates, clays, oxides, etc.). Furthermore, as a comparison to the data collected in the field, we report the results of the micro-Raman analyses carried out in the laboratory on the collected mineral/rock samples. This work was conducted in the framework of the Mars Multispectral Imager for Subsurface Studies (Ma_MISS) instrument that is a miniaturized visible and near-infrared (VIS-NIR) spectrometer (0.5–2.3 μm) devoted to the Martian subsurface exploration and integrated into the drilling system of the ESA Rosalind Franklin rover mission. Ma_MISS will acquire spectral data on the Martian subsurface from the excavated borehole wall. The scientific results obtained by this campaign confirm that the Río Tinto site is important for enriching the scientific community’s grasp on the Martian environment and for obtaining key information on the mineralogical and geochemical evolution of the Martian surface/subsurface. In addition, this work provides crucial preparation for the exploitation and interpretation of the scientific data that the Ma_MISS instrument will supply during the active phase of the mission. This activity is also useful for defining the priorities of the astrobiological objectives on the ground.
Periodic Disturbance Compensation Control of a Rope-Driven Lower Limb Rehabilitation Robot
Authors: Wang Zhijun , Li Mengxiang , Zhang Xiaotao
Published: July 2023

In order to solve the external periodic disturbance and unknown dynamics influence in the passive rehabilitation process of a rope-driven lower limb rehabilitation robot, a control method with periodic repeated learning was designed. In this control method, the closed-loop dynamics are divided into a periodic disturbance term, an unknown dynamics term, and a basic term, and the shape function is designed by using the Stone–Weirstrass theorem. In the process of periodic operation, the estimated value of the shape function coefficient is repeatedly learned to obtain the periodic disturbance term approximation and to realize the compensation in advance. Through the design of the impedance learning rate, the unknown dynamic term is periodically learned, and the unknown dynamics approximation is obtained. By combining the two approximations with the basic terms which can be solved directly, the external periodic disturbance is compensated for in advance and the control precision is improved. The control algorithm was verified by simulation, and the error fluctuation of the system gradually decreases and reaches the ideal value within several cycles. The performance of the control system is stable, and the problem of limb impedance caused by different patients is well solved.
Unwanted Supplementary Vibrations of Helicopter Radio Communication Systems
Authors: Češkovič Marek , Schrötter Martin , Huňady Róbert , Kurdel Pavol , Gecejová Natália
Published: July 2023

A helicopter in flight can be considered an unstable dynamic system with many unwanted vibrations originating from multiple sources, such as the operation of the engines and individual components. These vibrations cause the degradation of the structural and functional components of a helicopter, thereby generally reducing the utility and technical efficiency of the aircraft. During the analysis of frequently recurring errors of medium-heavy helicopters, partial damage to antenna elements with vertical polarisation was detected. These damages provided the basis for the presented research, based on which supplementary vibrations caused by unwanted electromagnetic oscillations were revealed. These oscillations were detected in the process of communication between the helicopter crew and the ground ATC (air traffic control) station. This phenomenon’s existence and negative influence were confirmed via measurements and modal analysis, based on which an exact synergy between harmonic frequencies of the helicopter’s normal vibrations was discovered. The obtained results serve as a theoretical and practical basis for the future monitoring of this phenomenon, especially in the process of determining the “health status” of medium-heavy helicopters.
Photosynthetic Efficiency and Antioxidative Response of Soybean Exposed to Selective Herbicides: A Field Study
Authors: Begović Lidija , Jurišić Nikola , Šrajer Gajdošik Martina , Mikuška Alma , Mlinarić Selma
Published: July 2023

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is one of the most economically important crops in the world due to its nutritional value. To optimize soybean growth and yield, a wide range of commercial herbicides intended for weed control in crops are used. Although the herbicides used are selective, they can still cause oxidative stress and disturb photosynthetic reactions in soybean crops. In this work, the influence of commercial selective herbicides for weed control on the photosynthetic efficiency and antioxidative response of two soybean cultivars was investigated. The parameters describing the photosynthetic performance of soybean were derived by measuring in vivo chlorophyll a fluorescence while the antioxidative response was evaluated by determining activities of the selected antioxidative enzymes and parameters of oxidative stress at different development stages. The results showed a different response of the two soybean cultivars to herbicide treatment. Both investigated soybean cultivars showed that herbicide treatment did not cause oxidative damage. However, they revealed different adaptation mechanisms of photosynthetic apparatus. A negative impact of herbicide application was observed mainly on the electron transport chain in both varieties.
Opportunities of Digital Transformation in Post-Harvest Activities: A Single Case Study of an Engineering Solutions Provider
Authors: Schmidt Daniel , Butturi Maria Angela , Sellitto Miguel Afonso
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this article is to identify opportunities that digital transformation in post-harvest activities offers to an engineering solution provider. The research method is a simple case study. The object is a company based in southern Brazil that provides engineering-integrated digital solutions to grain producers, including products and services. The specific objectives are to describe the company’s digital products and services, identify opportunities and players, and discuss how players can take advantage of opportunities owing to business process digitalization. The main results include separating products into three technological layers and identifying five types of opportunities (financing, commercialization, operation, logistics, traceability, and insurance), eight types of players, and the main opportunities for each player. The most significant opportunities are risk reduction in insurance contracts, improvement in grain quality, increments in food safety, and accurate information on grain movements. The main implication of the study is that grain producers and other players can explore opportunities, and solution providers can evolve toward complete digitalization by integrating service into the current offerings of post-harvest engineering solutions.
Abiotic Stress Responses and Microbe-Mediated Mitigation in Plants
Authors: Ma Ying
Published: July 2023

Agriculture bears the brunt of degraded ecosystems, as climate change, soil degradation, and biodiversity imbalances impede both productivity and quality [...]