bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Narcissistic Enough to Challenge: The Effect of Narcissism on Change-Oriented Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Lang Yi , Zhang Hongyu , Liu Jialin , Zhang Xinyu
Published: February 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations need to effectively manage changes, and employees need to proactively adapt to these changes. The present research investigated when and how individual employees’ narcissism was related to their change-oriented organizational citizenship behavior. Specifically, based on a trait activation perspective, this research proposed the hypotheses that individual employees’ narcissism and environmental uncertainty would interactively influence employees’ change-oriented organizational citizenship behavior via felt responsibility for constructive change; furthermore, the effect of narcissism on change-oriented organizational citizenship behavior via felt responsibility for constructive change would be stronger when the environmental uncertainty prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic was high rather than low. Two studies were conducted to test these hypotheses: an online survey of 180 employees in mainland China (Study 1) and a field study of 167 leader–follower dyads at two Chinese companies (Study 2). The current research reveals a bright side of narcissism, which has typically been recognized as a dark personality trait, and enriches the understanding of the antecedents of change-oriented organizational citizenship behavior. This research can also guide organizations that wish to stimulate employee proactivity.
Utilization of Drugs for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Among Young Patients in China, 2010–2019
Authors: Wang Zhiliang , Wu Xiaoyan , Yu Zhenwei , Yu Lingyan
Published: February 2022

Objective

The use of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication is increasing worldwide, but its status in China is unknown. This research aimed to assess the trends of ADHD medication use in young Chinese patients between 2010 and 2019.

Methods

Dispensing data related to ADHD medication use were extracted from the Hospital Prescription Analysis Cooperative Project of China. The trends in the yearly prescription number of ADHD drugs and corresponding cost were analyzed. We further stratified the data by age, sex, and specific drug.

Results

From 2010 to 2019, sampled prescriptions for ADHD medication increased from 902 to 4531, and the total expenditure increased rapidly from 276,580 to 2,412,308 Chinese Yuan. Prescriptions for males were almost fourfold more than that for females. Patients aged 6–11 years had the highest number of prescriptions for ADHD medication each year, accounting for more than 50% of the total number of prescriptions. The percentage of methylphenidate prescriptions decreased from 91.9% in 2010 to 76.9% in 2019, and the corresponding cost declined from 77.3% to 66.8%. In contrast, atomoxetine prescriptions increased progressively and accounted for about 24.5% of the total prescriptions at the end of the study.

Conclusions

The use of ADHD drugs and the corresponding cost increased rapidly in China, and methylphenidate was the most frequently prescribed medicine. The increase in ADHD prescriptions requires attention to ensure that it reflects appropriate use, especially in patients aged 6–11 years.
Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for Nicotine Dependence in Schizophrenia: A Mini Review
Authors: Ward Heather Burrell , Brady Roscoe O. , Halko Mark A. , Lizano Paulo
Published: February 2022

Individuals with schizophrenia are 10 times more likely to have a tobacco use disorder than the general population. Up to 80% of those with schizophrenia smoke tobacco regularly, a prevalence three-times that of the general population. Despite the striking prevalence of tobacco use in schizophrenia, current treatments are not tailored to the pathophysiology of this population. There is growing support for use of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) to treat substance use disorders (SUDs), particularly for tobacco use in neurotypical smokers. NIBS interventions targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex have been effective for nicotine dependence in control populations—so much so that transcranial magnetic stimulation is now FDA-approved for smoking cessation. However, this has not borne out in the studies using this approach in schizophrenia. We performed a literature search to identify articles using NIBS for the treatment of nicotine dependence in people with schizophrenia, which identified six studies. These studies yielded mixed results. Is it possible that nicotine has a unique effect in schizophrenia that is different than its effect in neurotypical smokers? Individuals with schizophrenia may receive additional benefit from nicotine's pro-cognitive effects than control populations and may use nicotine to improve brain network abnormalities from their illness. Therefore, clinical trials of NIBS interventions should test a schizophrenia-specific target for smoking cessation. We propose a generalized approach whereby schizophrenia-specific brain circuitry related to SUDs is be identified and then targeted with NIBS interventions.
Assessing Workplace Stress Among Nurses Using Heart Rate Variability Analysis With Wearable ECG Device–A Pilot Study
Authors: Li Xinxia , Zhu Weiwei , Sui Xiaofan , Zhang Aizhi , Chi Lijie , Lv Lu
Published: February 2022

This study aims to measure workplace stress of nurses using heart rate variability (HRV) analysis based on data derived from wearable ECG heart rate monitors. The study population consists of 17 nurses at a major public hospital in China. Data was collected from 7 DON nurses (department of neurosurgery; all females; mean age: 31.43 ± 4.50), and 9 ICU nurses (intensive care unit; 8 females and 1 male; mean age: 31.33 ± 5.43). Each participant was asked to wear a wireless ECG heart rate monitor to measure stress level during work, and to complete the Chinese Nurses Stress Response Scale (CNSRS) after work as subjective response criteria. Demographic information, body posture, heart rate, R-R intervals (RRI), low frequency components (LF) and high frequency components (HF) were collected. LF%, LnHF and the squared root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals (RMSSD) based on HRV analysis were used to estimate the stress level of nurses. DON nurses reported a higher LF%, lower LnHF and lower RMSSD than ICU nurses. Work shifts were shown to have significant effects on LF%, LnHF and RMSSD respectively, with nurses in long shifts and night shifts reported high stress levels. Higher LF%, lower LnHF and lower RMSSD were found during work shift. Posture analysis revealed negative correlations with LnHF and RMSSD in walking and standing/sitting positions, and a significant negative correlation with LF% in lying-down position. Nurses with higher LF% reported higher CNSRS scores in all subscales, whereas nurses with lower LnHF or RMSSD reported higher CNSRS scores in social phobia and fatigue subscales. The results of this study support the idea that HRV can be used to investigate workplace stress among nurses under real work condition, and can serve as a preventive measure for identifying stress-related illnesses among nurses.
Clinical and Radiological Comparisons of Percutaneous Low-Power Laser Discectomy and Low-Temperature Plasma Radiofrequency Ablation for Cervical Radiculopathy: A Prospective, Multicenter, Cohort Study
Authors: Lan Xueqin , Wang Ziyang , Huang Yuzhao , Ni Yuncheng , He Yunwu , Wang Xiaofeng , Wu Chunsheng , Hu Rong , Han Rui , Guo Gangwen , Li Zhenxing , Zhang Xuan , Zhang Jianping , Liao Qin , Huang Dong , Zhou Haocheng
Published: February 2022

Background

Minimally invasive techniques, such as percutaneous low-power laser discectomy (PLLD) and low-temperature plasma radiofrequency ablation (coblation) can be applied to treat degenerative cervical radiculopathy. However, less evidence supports the superiority of distinct minimally-invasive therapy. Our study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological characteristics of the PLLD and coblation for cervical radiculopathy.

Methods

This was a prospective, multicenter, cohort study (ChiCTR-ONC-17010356). The modified Macnab criteria was performed to assess the clinical improvement pre- and post-surgery. To evaluate the radiological effect, the Pfirrmann grading system and disk herniation index were applied with MRI.

Results

In this study, 28 patients were enrolled in the coblation group and 30 patients in the PLLD group. The mean good-excellent rate at 3-month follow-up was 82.1% for PLLD group, and 66.7% for coblation group, respectively (p = 0.179). The PLLD group achieved higher good-excellent rate 6 and 12 months after discharge (92.9 vs. 70.0%, p = 0.026). Radiological data revealed that PLLD but not coblation treatment achieved significant reduction of disk herniation index (p < 0.0001). Coblation treatment did not change the Pfirrmann grades of cervical radiculopathy patients (n = 18), and 7 out of 17 (41.2%) patients achieved improvement after PLLD therapy. None obvious adverse event was observed in this study.

Conclusion

Both PLLD and coblation are effective and safe option for patients with cervical radiculopathy. Better long-term clinical outcomes may be potentially associated with the improvement of disk degeneration after PLLD treatment.
Maximising Societal Benefit From the Control of Neglected Zoonoses: Identifying Synergies and Trade-Offs in the Control of Taenia solium
Authors: Soare Cristina , Garcia-Ara Amelia , Seguino Alessandro , Uys Matthys , Thomas Lian F.
Published: February 2022

Interventions to control or eradicate neglected zoonoses are generally paid for through the public purse and when these interventions focus on the animal hosts, they are often expected to be performed and financed through the state veterinary service. The benefits of control, however, accrue across the human, animal, and environmental spaces and enhance both public and private interests. Additionally, disease control interventions do not take place in a vacuum and the indirect impacts of our actions should also be considered if the societal benefit of interventions is to be maximised. With the caveat that unintended consequences can and will occur, pre-identifying potential synergies and trade-offs in our disease control initiatives allows for them to be considered in intervention design and monitored during programme roll-out. In this paper, using a One Health approach with the example of Taenia solium control, we identify potential indirect impacts which may arise and how these may influence both our choice of intervention and opportunities to optimise the animal, environmental, and societal benefits of control through maximising synergies and minimising trade-offs.
Phylogenetic Tests of Models of Viral Transmission
Authors: Zink Robert M. , Holck Kenedi , Morgan Grant L.
Published: February 2022

The hunt for the immediate non-human host of SARS-CoV-2 has centered on bats of the genus Rhinolophus. We explored the phylogenetic predictions of two models of viral transmission, the Spillover Model and the Circulation Model and suggest that the Spillover Model can be eliminated. The Circulation Model suggests that viral transmission occurs among susceptible hosts irrespective of their phylogenetic relationships. Susceptibility could be mediated by the ACE2 gene (important for viral docking) and we constructed a phylogeny of this gene for 159 mammal species, finding a phylogenetic pattern consistent with established mammalian relationships. The tree indicates that viral transfer occurs over large evolutionary distances. Although lacking consensus, some studies identify a virus from a particular R. affinis individual (RaTG13) as being most closely related phylogenetically to human SARS-CoV-2. However, other R. affinis harbor viruses that are relatively unrelated to human viruses, and viruses found in this species exhibit sequence differences of up to 20%, suggesting multiple transfers over time. There is little correspondence between viral and host (bat) species limits or phylogenetic relationships. An ACE2 phylogeny for Rhinolophus followed species limits, unlike the pattern in the viral phylogeny indicating that phylogenetic similarity of ACE2 is not a predictor of viral transmission at the bat species level. The Circulation Model could be modified to apply to any individual of any species of Rhinolophus; more individuals and species must be examined.
Knowledge and precautionary measures related to COVID-19 among university students of twin cities of Pakistan
Authors:   Riphah College of Rehabilitation & Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Ajaz Maryam , Waseem Mehwish ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation & Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Arif Shafaq ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation & Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Ehsan Naila Noor ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation & Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Kanwal Saira ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation & Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Fatima Abeer ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation & Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad
Published: February 2022

Background: As group activities are integral part of education, precautionary measures are vital to be taken by students to avoid spread of new strains of COVID 19. Perceptions and knowledge of students and their behavior are helpful to restrain the spread of disease. Objective: To assess knowledge and precautionary measures related to COVID-19 among university students of twin cities. Methods: It was a descriptive survey which was conducted through Google forms May to December 2020. Both male and female students aged 18 to 25 years, enrolled in different universities of twin cities participated. The data for the primary survey was gathered during the first wave of COVID-19, and for the second survey during the second wave. A total number of 280 male and female students participated in the primary survey. Similarly, 250 participated in the secondary survey. A semi structured questionnaire as Google form was posted on different online platforms (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook pages) which consisted of socio-demographics information; student's sources of information and knowledge regarding COVID and precautionary measures being practiced by them for prevention of disease spread. Results: Mean age of students participated in study was 22.26±2.58 years in primary survey and 22.68±2.28 years in secondary survey. In primary survey, 23.2% were male participants and 76.8% were females; while in secondary survey 16.8% were males and 83.2% were females. Majority of the students had sufficient knowledge and practiced precautionary measures during both waves of pandemic. Conclusion: Students of twin cities had sufficient knowledge regarding COVID-19 spread and they were practicing precautionary measures to avoid the disease.
Association between obesity and academic performance among college students of Umerkot, Sindh, Pakistan
Authors:   Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Science, Peoples University of Medical & Health Science for Women, Nawabshah (SBA), Pakistan, Waseem Maimuna , Kanwal Aisha ,   Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Science, Peoples University of Medical & Health Science for Women, Nawabshah (SBA), Pakistan, Khilji Memoona ,   Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Science, Peoples University of Medical & Health Science for Women, Nawabshah (SBA), Pakistan, Batool Shakeela ,   Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Science, Peoples University of Medical & Health Science for Women, Nawabshah (SBA), Pakistan, Ali Bahadur ,   Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Science, Peoples University of Medical & Health Science for Women, Nawabshah (SBA), Pakistan
Published: February 2022

Background: The obesity rate among adolescents is rising, similar to that of adults. Obese teenagers face a serious potential health problem as they get older. Obesity may have direct effect on academic performance. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of obesity and its association with academic performance among first year college students of Umerkot, Sindh, Pakistan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2019 to January 2020 in the private and government colleges of Umerkot, Sindh, Pakistan, and comprised of a systematic random sample of intermediate (part one) students. Body Mass Index (BMI) was measured to determine obesity, and academic performance was assessed through detailed marks certificate (DMC) of matriculation. SPSS v20 was used for data analysis. In order to determine the association Pearson's correlation coefficient was used, with p value <0.05 taken as statistically significant. Results: Overall, 378 students were included in the final analysis. The prevalence of obesity was only 5%. More boys than girls were obese (3.4% vs. 1.6%). The mean percentage of the students in all academic subjects was 76.4%. In addition, 5.8% overweight and 2.4% obese students received ≥80% marks. There was a significant positive association between BMI and academic performance (r=0.13, p<0.012). Conclusion: This study showed the positive relationship between obesity and academic performance in Umerkot, Pakistan. Obese students are likely to have better academic performance. The prevalence of obesity among students is low. Male students tend to be more obese and overweight than female students. However, large-scale, longitudinal studies are recommended.
Effects of sensory stimulation training on gross motor abilities in hemiplegic cerebral palsy
Authors:   Abasyn University Islamabad Campus, Arshad Imran , Razzaq Maria ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation and Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad Pakistan, Naweed Jaweed ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation and Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad Pakistan, Wali Sonia ,   Abasyn University Islamabad Campus, Obaid Sumaiyah ,   Riphah College of Rehabilitation and Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad Pakistan, Hameed Falak ,   Rehman Medical Institute Peshawar
Published: February 2022

Background: Cerebral palsy is treated by various techniques but still more advancement is needed to find out the effects of sensory stimulation training on gross motor abilities in patients with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Objectives: To determine the effect of sensory stimulation training on gross motor abilities in hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Methods: A single-blind randomized control trial was conducted at Al Rehman Hospital Phase II, Gulraiz Rawalpindi, spanning over 06 months from Feb 2019 to Jun 2019. The sampling technique was non-probability purposive sampling, Total sample size was 40, calculated through open epi, and randomly allocated into two groups equally by lottery method. Diagnosed hemiplegic cerebral palsy patients between 4 to 14 years of age, of both genders, did not receive special education and were not treated with sensory stimulation therapy, were included while any medical or surgical treatment before or during the study period was excluded. The Control group received Bobath Neurodevelopmental treatment, while the experimental group received sensory stimulation training by using Rody, swivel Cars, Foam Pogo Stick, Wobble Deck, Platform swing, trampoline, and Spooner board training five days a week for 6 weeks. Data was analyzed by SPSS 21, a Normality test was applied and results showed that data was normally distributed as the p-value of Shapiro-Wilk was <0.05. Results: Out of 40 hemiplegic cerebral palsy patients, 20 were in the experimental while 20 were in the control group among them 23(57.5%) were females and 17(42.5%) were males. GMFCS before the training in the experimental group was 3.65 + 0. 67, while in the control group was 3.55 + 0.60 with the P-value of 0.62. After the exercise program, the experimental group was 3.60 + 0.75, and the control group was 3.60 + 0.50 with the P-value of 1.00. Within-group analysis showed before and after training P-value was <0.01 in both experimental and control groups. Conclusion: It is concluded that sensory stimulation training improves gross motor abilities in hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
Experimental Investigation of Methane Generation in the Presence of Surface and Un-Surface Nanoparticles of Iron Oxide
Authors: Ali Asim , Keerio Hareef Ahmed , Panhwar Sallahuddin , Ahad Muhammad Zeshan
Published: February 2022

The exploitation and harnessing of renewable energies are becoming increasingly important throughout the world. This study presents a method of methane (CH4) generation using biological disintegration of food waste (FW) by anaerobic digestion (AD). The CH4 production was enhanced by the addition of three different types of iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) (Cetyletrimethlebromide (CTAB), urea-capped Fe3O4 NPs and Fe3O4 NPs without capping). The bio generation of CH4 and biodegradation of volatile solids (VS) were carried out in an AD treatment at mesophilic conditions (35–37 °C) for more than 50 days in batch mode. The concentration of all three types of NPs was kept constant at 75 mg/L. It was noticed that urea-capped NPs produced the maximum CH4 (5.386 L), followed by Fe3O4 NPs (5.212 L). Methane production in the control bioreactor was 2.143 L. The experimental results of CH4 generation (a dependent variable) were analyzed against the concentrations of NPs used (as independent variables) in multiple regression analysis (MRA). The overall model for the experiments resulted in R2 and R-adjusted values of 0.995 and 0.993, respectively.
Development, Performance, and Vehicle Applications of High Energy Density Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Burke Andrew F. , Zhao Jingyuan
Published: February 2022

This paper is concerned with the development and performance of high-energy density electrochemical supercapacitors (ECCs) and their application in HEVs, PHEVs, and HFCVs. Detailed test data are shown for the Skeleton Technology 5000 F carbon/carbon EDLC device and the Aowei 9000 F hybrid (4 V) supercapacitor (HSC). The EDLC device had an energy density of 8.4 Wh/kg and the hybrid SC had an energy density between 30 and 65, depending on its rated voltage and the power of the discharge. These energy densities are significantly higher than previous ECCs tested. They indicate that good progress is being made in increasing the energy density of commercial ECCs. Vehicle applications of the advanced ECCs were evaluated based on Advisor simulations on city and highway driving cycles. Simulations were made for six vehicle types ranging from compact passenger cars to Class 8 long haul trucks. The fuel economy was calculated for each vehicle type using a lithium battery, the EDLC Skeleton Technology capacitor and the two Aowei hybrid capacitors as energy storage in the powertrain. The 4.1 V hybrid capacitor in all cases was lighter and smaller than the lithium battery. The fuel economies of the HEVs on the FUDS cycle were significantly higher (30–50%) than that of the corresponding ICE vehicle, except for the long haul truck, for which the fuel economy improvement was 20%. In almost all cases, the fuel economy improvement was highest when using the 4.1 V hybrid capacitor. Simulations were also run for fuel cell-powered vehicles. For the fuel cell vehicles, the fuel economies using the three energy storage technologies varied only slightly. For all the fuel cell vehicles simulated, the 4.1 V hybrid capacitor was the lightest and smallest of the energy storage options, and produced the best fuel economy. As in the case of HEVs, the hybrid capacitors appeared to be the best option for energy storage in fuel cell vehicle applications.
Hedgehogs and Hedgehog-Head Boats in Ancient Egyptian Religion in the Late 3rd Millennium BCE
Authors: Hamilton Julia Clare Francis
Published: February 2022

Hedgehogs held a special place in ancient Egyptian life like many other desert- and marsh-dwelling animals. Their natural defensive qualities were admired by ancient Egyptians and their bodily parts, notably their hardened spines, were used as ingredients in medico-magical prescriptions. In tomb reliefs of the late 3rd Millennium BCE, hedgehogs are represented being carried alive by offering bearers or as background participants in desert hunting scenes. In later periods of Egyptian history, rattles, small unguent vessels, and scaraboid amulets were made in their shape, all of which are presumed to have had apotropaic purposes. A particular votive object of the Old Kingdom (c. 2686–2181 BCE) is a palm-sized modelled boat with a prow in the shape of a hedgehog head, which has been discovered at sites throughout Egypt. A similar representation of this motif is the so-called ‘Henet’-boat (from the word ḥnt[j]) with a hedgehog head at the prow facing inwards, which is found in late Old Kingdom art. This article reassesses the role of hedgehogs as protective or apotropaic entities and their association with boats, considering how ancient Egyptians understood their ecology and their predation of snakes, scorpions, and similar stinging creatures. An updated list is provided of known representations of hedgehog-head boats, including petroglyphs and as yet unpublished examples from tombs at Giza and Saqqara. The meaning of the ancient Egyptian word ḥnt(j) is also rexamined in relation to the representation of riverine and marsh-water boats in Old Kingdom tombs.
An Analysis of the Microstructure of the Melting Layer of a Precipitating Stratiform Cloud at the Dissipation Stage
Authors: Wei Lei , Lei Hengchi , Hu Wenhao , Huang Minsong , Zhang Rong , Zhang Xiaoqing , Hou Tuanjie , Lü Yuhuan
Published: February 2022

In this study, we investigated the macro- and microstructures of layered precipitation clouds in spring in Jilin Province, China. The premise of the campaign was to observe cloud particles in the melting layer (ML). The weather was developed under the influence of the Mongolia cyclone, which brought a large range of precipitation to the northeast. Combining the Droplet Measurement Technology (DMT) and Particle Measuring Systems (PMS) data, small particles accounted for the majority of all particles at each level above and below the ML. In our observations, both ice crystals (50–300 μm) and snowflakes (>300 μm) had two peaks between −5 and −2 °C. The high concentration of ice crystals at a temperature of −2.65 °C (4865 m) attained a maximum value of 287 L−1 and snowflakes with 47 L−1, which was similar to the previous studies. The Hallett–Mossop ice multiplication process operated most effectively at the temperature of −5 °C in this study. Even at the cloud dissipation stage, new droplets were still generated between −5 and −6 °C, providing abundant liquid water content (LWC) for the upper cloud. Although irregulars were observed, needles and spheres dominated in the observed cloud region of low LWC (<0.1 g m−3) at temperatures of −6 to −3 °C. These cloud conditions fit into the Hallett–Mossop criteria.
Heme-Based Gas Sensors in Nature and Their Chemical and Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Gondim Ana Claudia Silva , Guimarães Wellinson Gadelha , Sousa Eduardo Henrique Silva
Published: February 2022

Sensing is an essential feature of life, where many systems have been developed. Diatomic molecules such as O2, NO and CO exhibit an important role in life, which requires specialized sensors. Among the sensors discovered, heme-based gas sensors compose the largest group with at least eight different families. This large variety of proteins also exhibits many distinct ways of sensing diatomic molecules and promote a response for biological adaptation. Here, we briefly describe a story of two impressive systems of heme-based oxygen sensors, FixL from Rhizobium and DevS(DosS)/DosT from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Beyond this, we also examined many applications that have emerged. These heme-based gas sensors have been manipulated to function as chemical and biochemical analytical systems to detect small molecules (O2, CO, NO, CN−), fluorophores for imaging and bioanalysis, regulation of processes in synthetic biology and preparation of biocatalysts among others. These exciting features show the robustness of this field and multiple opportunities ahead besides the advances in the fundamental understanding of their molecular functioning.
mTBI-Induced Systemic Vascular Dysfunction in a Mouse mTBI Model
Authors: Lv Weizhen , Wang Zhuang , Wu Hanxue , Zhang Weiheng , Xu Jiaxi , Chen Xingjuan
Published: February 2022

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) without skull fracturing is the most common occurrence of all TBIs and is considered as a serious public health concern. Animal models of mTBI are essential to investigation of TBI and its effects. In the current study, we developed and characterized a reproducible mouse model of mild TBI, meanwhile, the effects of this mTBI model, as well as repetitive mTBIs (rmTBIs), on the endothelial function of mouse aortas were also studied. In variety of closed-head models of mTBI, impact velocity, weight, and dwell time are the main parameters that affect the severities of injury. Here, we used a device, converting parameters of velocity, tip weight, and dwell time into impact force, to develop a mouse model of close-head mTBI. Mice were subjected to a mild TBI induced by the impact forces of 500, 600, 700 and 800 kdyn, respectively. Later, brain injuries were assessed histologically and molecularly. Systemic and brain inflammation were measured by plasma cytokine assay and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) staining. The composite neurobehavioral test revealed significant acute functional deficits in mice after mTBI, corresponding to the degree of injury. Mice brain undergoing mTBI had significant elevated GFAP staining. Plasma cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly increased within 2 h after mTBI. Taken together, these data suggest that the mTBI mouse model introduce within our study exhibits good repeatability and comparable pathological characters. Moreover, we used this mTBI mouse model to determine the effect of single or rmTBIs on systemic vasoconstriction and relaxation. The isometric-tension results indicate that rmTBIs induce a pronounced and long-lasting endothelial dysfunction in mouse aorta.
Dose-Intense Cisplatin-Based Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Increases Survival in Advanced Cervical Cancer: An Up-to-Date Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Van Tai , Winterman Sabine , Playe Margot , Benbara Amélie , Zelek Laurent , Pamoukdjian Frédéric , Bousquet Guilhem
Published: February 2022

Purpose: We set out to demonstrate the benefit of using dose-intense cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in terms of overall survival and progression-free survival. Methods: We searched through MEDLINE and Cochrane Library databases up to May 2021 to identify randomized clinical trials comparing the benefit of using cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by local treatment with local treatment alone for the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer. The PRISMA statement was applied. Results: Twenty-two randomized clinical trials were retrieved between 1991 and 2019, corresponding to 3632 women with FIGO stages IB2-IVA cervical cancer. More than 50% of the randomized clinical trials were assessed as having a low risk of bias. There was no benefit of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on overall survival, but there was significant heterogeneity across studies (I2 = 45%, p = 0.01). In contrast, dose-intense cisplatin at over 72.5 mg/m2/3 weeks was significantly associated with increased overall survival (RR = 0.87, p < 0.05) with no heterogeneity across the pooled studies (I2 = 36%, p = 0.11). The survival benefit was even greater when cisplatin was administered at a dose over 105 mg/m2/3 weeks (RR = 0.79, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Even though radiotherapy combined with weekly cisplatin-based chemotherapy remains standard of care for the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer, our meta-analysis makes it possible to consider the use of dose-intense cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy when local treatment is suboptimal and opens perspectives for designing new clinical trials in this setting. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy could be proposed when surgery is local treatment instead of standard chemoradiotherapy for the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer.
Functional Therapeutic Target Validation Using Pediatric Zebrafish Xenograft Models
Authors: Gatzweiler Charlotte , Ridinger Johannes , Herter Sonja , Gerloff Xenia F. , ElHarouni Dina , Berker Yannick , Imle Roland , Schmitt Lukas , Kreth Sina , Stainczyk Sabine , Ayhan Simay , Najafi Sara , Krunic Damir , Frese Karen , Meder Benjamin , Reuss David , Fiesel Petra , Schramm Kathrin , Blattner-Johnson Mirjam , Jones David T. W. , Banito Ana , Westermann Frank , Oppermann Sina , Milde Till , Peterziel Heike , Witt Olaf , Oehme Ina
Published: February 2022

The survival rate among children with relapsed tumors remains poor, due to tumor heterogeneity, lack of directly actionable tumor drivers and multidrug resistance. Novel personalized medicine approaches tailored to each tumor are urgently needed to improve cancer treatment. Current pediatric precision oncology platforms, such as the INFORM (INdividualized Therapy FOr Relapsed Malignancies in Childhood) study, reveal that molecular profiling of tumor tissue identifies targets associated with clinical benefit in a subgroup of patients only and should be complemented with functional drug testing. In such an approach, patient-derived tumor cells are exposed to a library of approved oncological drugs in a physiological setting, e.g., in the form of animal avatars injected with patient tumor cells. We used molecularly fully characterized tumor samples from the INFORM study to compare drug screen results of individual patient-derived cell models in functional assays: (i) patient-derived spheroid cultures within a few days after tumor dissociation; (ii) tumor cells reisolated from the corresponding mouse PDX; (iii) corresponding long-term organoid-like cultures and (iv) drug evaluation with the corresponding zebrafish PDX (zPDX) model. Each model had its advantage and complemented the others for drug hit and drug combination selection. Our results provide evidence that in vivo zPDX drug screening is a promising add-on to current functional drug screening in precision medicine platforms.
4-Unit Molar Fixed Partial Dentures Made from Highly Translucent and Multilayer Zirconia Materials: An In Vitro Investigation
Authors: Strasser Thomas , Schmid Alois , Huber Christina , Rosentritt Martin
Published: February 2022

Background: Modern zirconia blanks for the fabrication of dental CAD/CAM restorations provide a layer structure with color and strength transitions. Variation in the yttria content has a particular effect on the characteristics of the materials. The properties of dental restorations may vary depending on the milling position within the blank. Especially for wide-span fixed partial dentures (FPDs), relevant effects on clinical performance might result. This study investigated if the application of high-translucent zirconia and positioning within multilayer zirconia blanks affect the in vitro performance of 4-unit FPDs. Methods: 4-unit FPDs were fabricated from monolayer 3Y-TZP-A, 3Y-TZP, 4Y-TZP, 5Y-TZP, 4Y/5Y-TZP, and different positions within multilayer zirconia blanks (3Y-TZP/5Y-TZP). The FPDs were adhesively luted to resin abutment teeth, divided into groups (n = 8 each): “baseline” (24 h water-storage)/“TCML” (chewing simulation by means of thermalcycling and mechanical loading), and loaded to fracture. The statistics included mean and standard deviation, one-way ANOVA, Bonferroni post hoc test, and Pearson correlation (α = 0.05). Results: The mean fracture force values varied between 803.8 ± 171.7 N (5Y) and 1474.1 ± 193.0 N (3Y) (baseline) and 713.5 ± 190.9 N (5Y) and 1337.4 ± 205.6 N (3Y) (TCML). Significantly different (p = 0.000) results between the groups and individual significant differences (p ≤ 0.039) were found. Conclusions: Positioning within multilayer blanks affected the fracture force only slightly. Multilayer, 3Y-TZP-A, 3Y-TZP, and 4Y-TZP seem appropriate for the clinical application with 4-unit molar FPDs. Application of 5Y-TZP is critical.
A Critical Review of Blockchain Acceptance Models—Blockchain Technology Adoption Frameworks and Applications
Authors: Taherdoost Hamed
Published: February 2022

Blockchain is a promising breakthrough technology that is highly applicable in manifold sectors. The adoption of blockchain technology is accompanied by a range of issues and challenges that make its implementation complicated. To facilitate the successful implementation of blockchain technology, several blockchain adoption frameworks have been developed. However, selecting the appropriate framework based on the conformity of its features with the business sector may be challenging for decision-makers. This study aims to provide a systematic literature review to introduce the adoption frameworks that are most used to assess blockchain adoption and realize business sectors that these models have been applied. Thus, the blockchain adoption models in 56 articles are reviewed and the results of the studies are summarized by categorizing the articles into five main sections including supply chain, industries, financial sector, cryptocurrencies, and other articles (excluded from the former fields). The findings of the study show that the models based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), technology–organization–environment (TOE), and new conceptual frameworks were the focus of the majority of selected articles. Most of the articles have focused on blockchain adoption in different industry fields and supply chain areas.
Examine the Association between Metabolic Syndrome and Frailty in an Older Asian Population
Authors: Dao Hiep Huu Hoang , Nguyen Anh Trung , Vu Huyen Thi Thanh , Nguyen Tu Ngoc
Published: February 2022

Background: There has been evidence that metabolic syndrome (MetS) may increase the risk of frailty. However, there is limited evidence on this association in Asian populations. Aims: This study aims to identify the association between MetS and frailty in older people in Vietnam. Methods: This is a cross-sectional analysis of a dataset that was obtained from an observational study on frailty and sarcopenia in patients aged ≥60 at a geriatric hospital in Vietnam. Frailty was defined by the frailty phenotype. The participants were defined as having MetS if they had ≥3 out of 5 criteria from the definition of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Adults Treatment Panel (ATP) III. Multiple logistic regression models were performed to estimate the risk of having frailty in patients with MetS. Results: Of the 669 participants (mean age 71, 60.2% female), 62.3% had MetS and 39.0% were frail. The prevalence of frailty was 42.2% in participants with MetS and 33.7% in participants without MetS (p = 0.029). On the logistic regression models, MetS was associated with an increased likelihood of being frail (adjusted OR 1.52, 95%CI 1.01–2.28), allowing for age, sex, education, nutritional status, history of hospitalization, and chronic diseases. Conclusion: There was a significant association between MetS and frailty in this population. Further longitudinal studies are required to confirm this association.
The Pursuit of Happiness: Leadership Challenges of Recognising and Supporting Child Health and Wellbeing in the Early Years
Authors: Peill Françoise
Published: February 2022

This study examined the leadership approach to child health and wellbeing within the early-years sector; it drew upon the evidence from thirty-two practitioners and ten nursery managers. Practitioners evidenced the challenges in recognising the signs and symptoms of low wellbeing and in monitoring progress. A constructivist paradigm enabled qualitative data to be collected from an interactive questionnaire and three focus groups of nursery managers. Analysis was supported by two wellbeing models: the PERMA model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment) and the SHANARRI wheel (Safe, Healthy, Achieving, Nurtured, Active, Respected, Responsible, Included). The findings accentuated the lack of confidence of practitioners in identifying the precursors of health and wellbeing, and their ability to monitor the progress to support children. In conclusion, a clear definition of health and wellbeing should be adopted by managers; their leadership is vital to support the training of practitioners sharing their knowledge and experience to less-qualified staff. The main issues to transpire highlighted that clear mandatory guidance should be available for early-years practitioners, and the creation of a bespoke early-years model to measure child health and wellbeing.
Altered Mitochondrial Quality Control in Rats with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) Induced by High-Fat Feeding
Authors: Cioffi Federica , Giacco Antonia , Petito Giuseppe , de Matteis Rita , Senese Rosalba , Lombardi Assunta , de Lange Pieter , Moreno Maria , Goglia Fernando , Lanni Antonia , Silvestri Elena
Published: February 2022

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is defined as the presence of hepatic steatosis in addition to one of three metabolic conditions: overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or metabolic dysregulation. Chronic exposure to excess dietary fatty acids may cause hepatic steatosis and metabolic disturbances. The alteration of the quality of mitochondria is one of the factors that could contribute to the metabolic dysregulation of MAFDL. This study was designed to determine, in a rodent model of MAFLD, the effects of a long-term high-fat diet (HFD) on some hepatic processes that characterize mitochondrial quality control, such as biogenesis, dynamics, and mitophagy. To mimic the human manifestation of MAFLD, the rats were exposed to both an HFD and a housing temperature within the rat thermoneutral zone (28–30 °C). After 14 weeks of the HFD, the rats showed significant fat deposition and liver steatosis. Concomitantly, some important factors related to the hepatic mitochondrial quality were markedly affected, such as increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage; reduced mitochondrial biogenesis, mtDNA copy numbers, mtDNA repair, and mitochondrial fusion. HFD-fed rats also showed an impaired mitophagy. Overall, the obtained data shed new light on the network of different processes contributing to the failure of mitochondrial quality control as a central event for mitochondrial dysregulation in MAFLD.
PAs Regulate Early Somatic Embryo Development by Changing the Gene Expression Level and the Hormonal Balance in Dimocarpus longan Lour.
Authors: Lai Chunwang , Zhou Xiaojuan , Zhang Shuting , Zhang Xueying , Liu Mengyu , Zhang Chunyu , Xu Xiaoqiong , Xu Xiaoping , Chen Xiaohui , Chen Yan , Lin Wenzhong , Lai Zhongxiong , Lin Yuling
Published: February 2022

Polyamines (PAs) play an important regulatory role in many basic cellular processes and physiological and biochemical processes. However, there are few studies on the identification of PA biosynthesis and metabolism family members and the role of PAs in the transition of plant embryogenic calli (EC) into globular embryos (GE), especially in perennial woody plants. We identified 20 genes involved in PA biosynthesis and metabolism from the third-generation genome of longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.). There were no significant differences between longan and other species regarding the number of members, and they had high similarity with Citrus sinensis. Light, plant hormones and a variety of stress cis-acting elements were found in these family members. The biosynthesis and metabolism of PAs in longan were mainly completed by DlADC2, DlSAMDC2, DlSAMDC3, DlSPDS1A, DlSPMS, DlCuAOB, DlCuAO3A, DlPAO2 and DlPAO4B. In addition, 0.01 mmol∙L−1 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), putrescine (Put) and spermine (Spm), could promote the transformation of EC into GE, and Spm treatment had the best effect, while 0.01 mmol∙L−1 D-arginine (D-arg) treatment inhibited the process. The period between the 9th and 11th days was key for the transformation of EC into GE in longan. There were higher levels of gibberellin (GA), salicylic acid (SA) and abscisic acid (ABA) and lower levels of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), ethylene and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in this key period. The expression levels in this period of DlADC2, DlODC, DlSPDS1A, DlCuAOB and DlPAO4B were upregulated, while those of DlSAMDC2 and DlSPMS were downregulated. These results showed that the exogenous ACC, D-arg and PAs could regulate the transformation of EC into GE in longan by changing the content of endogenous hormones and the expression levels of PA biosynthesis and metabolism genes. This study provided a foundation for further determining the physicochemical properties and molecular evolution characteristics of the PA biosynthesis and metabolism gene families, and explored the mechanism of PAs and ethylene for regulating the transformation of plant EC into GE.
Artificial Intelligence in Bone Metastases: An MRI and CT Imaging Review
Authors: Faiella Eliodoro , Santucci Domiziana , Calabrese Alessandro , Russo Fabrizio , Vadalà Gianluca , Zobel Bruno Beomonte , Soda Paolo , Iannello Giulio , de Felice Carlo , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: The purpose of this review is to study the role of radiomics as a supporting tool in predicting bone disease status, differentiating benign from malignant bone lesions, and characterizing malignant bone lesions. (2) Methods: Two reviewers conducted the literature search independently. Thirteen articles on radiomics as a decision support tool for bone lesions were selected. The quality of the methodology was evaluated according to the radiomics quality score (RQS). (3) Results: All studies were published between 2018 and 2021 and were retrospective in design. Eleven (85%) studies were MRI-based, and two (15%) were CT-based. The sample size was <200 patients for all studies. There is significant heterogeneity in the literature, as evidenced by the relatively low RQS value (average score = 22.6%). There is not a homogeneous protocol used for MRI sequences among the different studies, although the highest predictive ability was always obtained in T2W-FS. Six articles (46%) reported on the potential application of the model in a clinical setting with a decision curve analysis (DCA). (4) Conclusions: Despite the variability in the radiomics method application, the similarity of results and conclusions observed is encouraging. Substantial limits were found; prospective and multicentric studies are needed to affirm the role of radiomics as a supporting tool.