bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PGM3 insufficiency: a glycosylation disorder causing a notable T cell defect
Authors: Yang Linlin , Zerbato Barbara , Pessina Alex , Brambilla Luca , Andreani Virginia , Frey-Jakobs Stefanie , Fliegauf Manfred , Barbouche Mohamed-Ridha , Zhang Qiaoxia , Chiaradonna Ferdinando , Proietti Michele , Du Xin , Grimbacher Bodo
Published: December 2024

Background

Hypomorphic mutations in the phosphoacetylglucosamine mutase 3 (PGM3) gene cause a glycosylation disorder that leads to immunodeficiency. It is often associated with recurrent infections and atopy. The exact etiology of this condition remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the phenotypes and immunological features associated with PGM3 insufficiency and investigate potential disease mechanisms.

Methods

A systematic review of 44 published cases of PGM3 variants was performed, followed by T-cell phenotyping of two patients with PGM3 variants. A genotype-phenotypic severity study was conducted by comparing the residual PGM3 expression of the 12 reconstituted variants in human B cells. A PGM3 inhibitor was used to assess its effect on CD4+ T cell proliferation and differentiation.

Results

Patients with PGM3 variants frequently presented with recurrent infections and atopy, accompanied by reduced naïve CD4+ T cell counts. A genotype–phenotype study showed that low levels of residual PGM3 expression are correlated with disease severity. Notably, inhibition of PGM3 activity impaired TCR-mediated CD4+ T cell proliferation and the synthesis of UDP-GlcNAc, complex N-glycans, O-GlcNAc, glycolytic stress, and mitochondrial respiration during proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Partial loss of PGM3 activity was observed to preferentially enhance Th1 and Th2 differentiation, while attenuating Th17 and Treg differentiation, consistent with clinical observations.

Conclusion

PGM3 is a critical regulator of CD4+ T-cell proliferation and differentiation. These findings provide new insights into the diverse clinical manifestations and therapeutic development of PGM3 deficiency.
Generation of effective and specific human TCRs against tumor/testis antigen NY-ESO-1 in mice with humanized T cell recognition system
Authors: Chen Xiaojing Tina , Leisegang Matthias , Gavvovidis Ioannis , Pollack Seth M. , Lorenz Felix K. M. , Schumacher Ton N. , Daumke Oliver , Blankenstein Thomas
Published: December 2024

Generation of high avidity T cell receptors (TCRs) reactive to tumor-associated antigens (TAA) is impaired by tolerance mechanisms, which is an obstacle to effective T cell therapies for cancer treatment. NY-ESO-1, a human cancer-testis antigen, represents an attractive target for such therapies due to its broad expression in different cancer types and the restricted expression in normal tissues. Utilizing transgenic mice with a diverse human TCR repertoire, we isolated effective TCRs against NY-ESO-1157-165 restricted to HLA-A*02:01. We compared the functions of the murine-derived TCR with human-derived TCRs and an affinity matured TCR, using in vitro co-culture and in vivo adoptive T cell transfer in tumor-bearing mice. Alanine scan, x-scan, LCL assay were employed to address the cross-reactivity of the NY-ESO-1157-165 specific TCRs. We also used human tissue cDNA library and human primary cells to assess the safety of adoptive T cell therapies targeting NY-ESO-1 antigen in the clinic. One of the murine-derived human TCRs, TCR-ESO, exhibited higher functional avidity compared to human-derived NY-ESO-1157-165 specific TCRs. TCR-ESO appeared to have similar efficiency in antigen recognition as an in vitro affinity-matured TCR, TCR 1G4-α95LY, which was applied in clinical trials. TCR-ESO showed little cross-reactivity, in contrast to TCR 1G4-α95LY. Our data indicate that highly effective TCRs against NY-ESO-1 are likely deleted in humans due to tolerance mechanisms, and that the TCR gene loci transgenic mice represent a reliable source to isolate effective and highly-specific TCRs for adoptive T cell therapies.
Evidence of uses of marine litter by Mediterranean Cephalopoda
Authors: Capillo Gioele , Albano Marco , D’Iglio Claudio , Famulari Sergio , Di Fresco Dario , Spanò Nunziacarla , Savoca Serena
Published: December 2024

Understanding the interaction between marine biota and marine litter is essential to comprehend how organisms face the continuous alteration of their habitats due to anthropogenic pressure. The evidence here reported, based on both direct in situ observations and citizen science obtained information, refer to the interactions between two Mediterranean Cephalopoda species and marine litter in natural environments, and, more specifically, between: i) Octopus vulgaris and a plastic bin used for laying eggs inside, ii) Sepia officinalis and an artificial Egi lure, used for oviposition, iii) another specimen of O. vulgaris and an artificial lure, used for den enhancing. This highlights marine litter presence, probably joint with the scarcity of natural substrates, could lead to a behavioural adaptation of the species in responding to the reproductive stimulus, especially in the case of semelparous species. Based on these individual observations it is undoubtedly of crucial importance improving the knowledge base on the relationship between marine biota - marine litter and effects on marine animals and offspring.
Probability analysis of hepatocellular carcinoma in hepatitis patients in the gray zone
Authors: Zhang Jianna , Yu Sijie , Zhu Kailu , Li Shibo , Huang Yu
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the probability of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a large number of gray-zone (GZ) patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in clinical practice.

Methods

The patients with CHB who were diagnosed and treated in our hospital from January 2013 to January 2023 were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

According to the different levels of HBeAg, ALT and HBV DNA, GZ patients were divided into four categories: (1) Gray zone A (GZ-A): HBeAg positive, normal ALT level, HBV DNA ≤ 106 IU/ml; (2) Gray zone B (GZ-B): HBeAg positive, ALT>ULN, HBV DNA ≤ 2 × 104 IU/ml; (3) Gray zone C (GZ-C): HBeAg negative, normal ALT level, HBV DNA ≥ 2 × 103 IU/ml; and (4) Gray zone D (GZ-D): HBeAg negative, ALT > ULN, serum HBV DNA ≤ 2 × 103 IU/ml. This observational study showed that after adjustment using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW), the probability of developing HCC in the GZ group was similar to that in the immune-tolerant, HBeAg-positive immune active, and inactive groups. The IPTW-adjusted analysis revealed that the probability of developing HCC in the GZ-B subgroup was similar to that in the immune-active and HBeAg-negative immune-active groups.

Conclusion

The GZ group and GZ-B subgroup have a higher risk of HCC. Anti-hepatitis B virus therapy should be considered as early as possible for patients in the GZ group, especially in the GZ-B subgroup.
Cinnamaldehyde nanoemulsion decorated with rhamnolipid for inhibition of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation: in vitro and in vivo assessment
Authors: Yin Lizi , Guo Yingzi , Xv Xiyuan , Dai Yuyun , Li Luxin , Sun Fengsheng , Lv Xue , Shu Gang , Liang Xiaoxia , He Changliang , Xu Zhiwen , Ouyang Ping
Published: December 2024

Background

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilm associated infections are prevalent and persistent, posing a serious threat to human health and causing significant economic losses in animal husbandry. Nanoemulsions demonstrate significant potential in the treatment of bacterial biofilm associated infections due to their unique physical, chemical and biological properties. In this study, a novel cinnamaldehyde nanoemulsion with the ability to penetrate biofilm structures and eliminate biofilms was developed.

Methods

The formulation of cinnamaldehyde nanoemulsion (Cin-NE) combined with rhamnolipid (RHL) was developed by self-assembly, and the efficacies of this formulation in inhibiting S. aureus biofilm associated infections were assessed through in vitro assays and in vivo experiments by a mouse skin wound healing model.

Results

The particle size of the selected Cin-NE formulation was 13.66 ± 0.08 nm, and the Cin-RHL-NE formulation was 20.45 ± 0.25 nm. The selected Cin-RHL-NE formulation was stable at 4, 25, and 37°C. Furthermore, the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value of Cin-RHL-NE against MRSA was two-fold lower than drug solution. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) revealed the superior efficacy of Cin-RHL-NE in eradicating MRSA biofilms while maintaining the Cin’s inherent functional properties. The efficacy of Cin-RHL-NE in the mouse skin wound healing model was superior to other formulation.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the potential of the formulation Cin-RHL-NE for eradicating biofilms, and effective in treating notoriously persistent bacterial infections. The Cin-RHL-NE can used as a dosage form of Cin application to bacterial biofilm associated infections.
Data analysis protocol for early autonomic dysfunction characterization after severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Dong Kejun , Krishnamoorthy Vijay , Vavilala Monica S. , Miller Joseph , Minic Zeljka , Ohnuma Tetsu , Laskowitz Daniel , Goldstein Benjamin A. , Ulloa Luis , Sheng Huaxin , Korley Frederick K. , Meurer William , Hu Xiao
Published: December 2024

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) disrupts normal brain tissue and functions, leading to high mortality and disability. Severe TBI (sTBI) causes prolonged cognitive, functional, and multi-organ dysfunction. Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) after sTBI can induce abnormalities in multiple organ systems, contributing to cardiovascular dysregulation and increased mortality. Currently, detailed characterization of early autonomic dysfunction in the acute phase after sTBI is lacking. This study aims to use physiological waveform data collected from patients with sTBI to characterize early autonomic dysfunction and its association with clinical outcomes to prevent multi-organ dysfunction and improving patient outcomes.

Objective

This data analysis protocol describes our pre-planned protocol using cardiac waveforms to evaluate early autonomic dysfunction and to inform multi-dimensional characterization of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) after sTBI.

Methods

We will collect continuous cardiac waveform data from patients managed in an intensive care unit within a clinical trial. We will first assess the signal quality of the electrocardiogram (ECG) using a combination of the structural image similarity metric and signal quality index. Then, we will detect premature ventricular contractions (PVC) on good-quality ECG beats using a deep-learning model. For arterial blood pressure (ABP) data, we will employ a singular value decomposition (SVD)-based approach to assess the signal quality. Finally, we will compute multiple indices of ANS functions through heart rate turbulence (HRT) analysis, time/frequency-domain analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) and pulse rate variability, and quantification of baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) from high-quality continuous ECG and ABP signals. The early autonomic dysfunction will be characterized by comparing the values of calculated indices with their normal ranges.

Conclusion

This study will provide a detailed characterization of acute changes in ANS function after sTBI through quantified indices from cardiac waveform data, thereby enhancing our understanding of the development and course of eAD post-sTBI.
Enhancement of prefrontal functional connectivity under the influence of concurrent physical load during mental tasks
Authors: Cheng Shan , Cong Lin , Hui Duoduo , Teng Chaolin , Li Wenbin , Ma Jin
Published: December 2024

Backgrounds

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is widely used for the evaluation of mental workload (MWL), but it is not yet clear whether it is affected by physical factors during cognitive tasks. Therefore, the combined effects of physical and cognitive loads on hemodynamic features in the prefrontal cortex were evaluated.

Methods

Thirty-three eligible healthy male subjects were asked to perform three types of cognitive tasks (1-back, 2-back and 3-back). Concurrently, isotonic contraction aerobic exercise of the left upper limb was added. During this compound task, fNIRS signals, workload perception and task performance were recorded. Based on the oxyhemoglobin concentration, Pearson’s correlation coefficient (CORR), coherence value (COH) and the phase-locking value (PLV) were calculated to reflect FC among eight channels.

Results

On the basis of effects of cognitive tasks, the concurrent physical activities would further increase National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index score (p < 0.05) and decrease task performance (p < 0.05). The fNIRS-based results showed that cognitive and physical loads had significant interaction effects on CORR (p < 0.05), COH (p < 0.05), and PLV (p = 0.010), while their main effects were not significant. The results of different channel pairs suggested that the functional connectivity between the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the bilateral orbital frontal cortex was significantly enhanced under the combined effects of high physical and high cognitive load.

Discussion

From the perspective of prefrontal functional connectivity, this study supports measurable effects of physical factor on operators’ mental load. The results provide a reference for the real-time (or online) assessment of the MWL level in the natural environment.
Automated assessment of endometrial receptivity for screening recurrent pregnancy loss risk using deep learning-enhanced ultrasound and clinical data
Authors: Yan Shanling , Xiong Fei , Xin Yanfen , Zhou Zhuyu , Liu Wanqing
Published: December 2024

Background

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) poses significant challenges in clinical management due to an unclear etiology in over half the cases. Traditional screening methods, including ultrasonographic evaluation of endometrial receptivity (ER), have been debated for their efficacy in identifying high-risk individuals. Despite the potential of artificial intelligence, notably deep learning (DL), to enhance medical imaging analysis, its application in ER assessment for RPL risk stratification remains underexplored.

Objective

This study aims to leverage DL techniques in the analysis of routine clinical and ultrasound examination data to refine ER assessment within RPL management.

Methods

Employing a retrospective, controlled design, this study included 346 individuals with unexplained RPL and 369 controls to assess ER. Participants were allocated into training (n = 485) and testing (n = 230) datasets for model construction and performance evaluation, respectively. DL techniques were applied to analyze conventional grayscale ultrasound images and clinical data, utilizing a pre-trained ResNet-50 model for imaging analysis and TabNet for tabular data interpretation. The model outputs were calibrated to generate probabilistic scores, representing the risk of RPL. Both comparative analyses and ablation studies were performed using ResNet-50, TabNet, and a combined fusion model. These were evaluated against other state-of-the-art DL and machine learning (ML) models, with the results validated against the testing dataset.

Results

The comparative analysis demonstrated that the ResNet-50 model outperformed other DL architectures, achieving the highest accuracy and the lowest Brier score. Similarly, the TabNet model exceeded the performance of traditional ML models. Ablation studies demonstrated that the fusion model, which integrates both data modalities and is presented through a nomogram, provided the most accurate predictions, with an area under the curve of 0.853. The radiological DL model made a more significant contribution to the overall performance of the fusion model, underscoring its superior predictive capability.

Conclusion

This investigation demonstrates the superiority of a DL-enhanced fusion model that integrates routine ultrasound and clinical data for accurate stratification of RPL risk, offering significant advancements over traditional methods.
Fatigue and recovery-related changes in postural and core stability in sedentary employees: a study protocol
Authors: Amiri Banafsheh , Zemková Erika
Published: December 2024

Prolonged sitting leads to a slumped posture, which indirectly influences spinal curvature and increases low back and hamstring stiffness. Active rather than passive recovery is an effective way to reduce the risks associated with such prolonged inactivity. However, it remains to be investigated which of the exercises frequently used for this purpose, the trunk stability and foam rolling exercise, is more beneficial. This protocol study will compare the effects of foam rolling exercises on the recovery of impaired core and postural stability induced by core muscle fatigue and hamstring muscle stiffness with those of trunk stabilization exercises in sedentary adults. Twenty sedentary adults ranging in age from 25 to 44 years old, comprising 50% men and 50% women, will participate in a modified Abt’s trunk muscle fatigue protocol, then proceed with (1) active recovery in the form of trunk stabilization exercises, (2) active recovery in the form of foam rolling exercises, and (3) passive recovery, entails lying on a bed, respectively. Pre-fatigue, post-fatigue, and after all three recovery modalities, core and postural stability, and back and hamstring muscle flexibility will be evaluated using an inertial sensor system, and a posturography system. Muscle-fatigue conditions will be determined using electromyogram signals. Although the effects of foam rolling and trunk stabilization exercises can be attributed to different physiological mechanisms, the former releasing myofascial to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension, the latter strengthening core muscles to stabilize posture, we hypothesize that both are equivalently effective in reducing the consequences of prolonged sitting.
Phenotypic evolution of appearance quality and cooking and taste quality of hybrid rice over the past 40 years in China
Authors: Fan Jiongjiong , Li Wei , Bian Ying , Zhang Zhengjiu , Yang Ruoju , Xu Xia , Cheng Benyi , Yang Shihua , Wu Jianli , Zhang Xiaobo , Gong Junyi
Published: December 2024

Since the inception of hybrid rice technology 50 years ago, it has not only substantially increased rice yield per unit area but also expedited the development of high-quality rice varieties. However, the evolutionary characteristics of hybrid rice quality remain unclear. To address this gap, it is imperative to leverage more representative and comprehensive hybrid rice resources to analyze phenotypic variation diversity and its primary genetic basis, thereby offering more efficient guidance for molecular breeding. In this study, we selected 2,618 hybrid rice varieties that have been nationally or provincially approved in China over the past 40 years. We analyzed the ecological and chronological evolution characteristics of eight rice quality-related traits: grain length, grain width, grain length-width ratio, chalky grain ratio, chalkiness degree, alkali spreading value, gel consistency, and amylose content (AC). Additionally, we utilized the 'Rice-Navi' system to evaluate the primary molecular basis underlying this evolution. The results revealed that among the eight traits, the coefficient of variation for chalkiness degree was the highest at 0.88, whereas the lowest value of 0.07 was observed for grain width. Significant correlations were found among these traits. The phenotypic evolution results for six major ecological types-Early-season cultivation of indica in South China, Late-season cultivation of indica in South China, Mid-season cultivation of indica in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, Early-season cultivation of indica in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, Mid-season cultivation of indica in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, and Late-season cultivation of indica in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River-indicated that, except for E4, the quality of rice in the other five major ecological types exhibited a significant chronological improvement trend. This trend was highly correlated with the utilization of major superior alleles. Concurrently, the primary genetic background of hybrid rice quality displayed certain ecological diversity characteristics. Overall, this study elucidated the evolutionary characteristics of appearance quality and cooking and taste quality of hybrid rice in southern China from both ecological and chronological perspectives, providing valuable data support for the efficient molecular improvement of rice quality.
How to reduce the adverse effects of weight stigma on the quality of life: a preferred reported items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA)
Authors: Ramsamy Guillaume , Mosbah Helena , Faure Jean Pierre , Plault Vanina , Albouy Marion , Esnard Catherine
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Obesity, affecting 38% of adults globally, carries economic burdens and health risks like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Weight-loss programs often face challenges due to stigma and poor body image, impacting individuals’ quality of life. Research on interventions targeting weight stigma is lacking, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches addressing psychological and behavioral aspects for effective care.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. We searched into three databases (PubMed, APA PsycArticles/PsycInfo, and Web of Science) articles published between 1975 and 2024. Studies were eligible if they involved people living with overweight or obesity who participate in a psychological program targeting, or not, weight stigma and if at least one outcome was related to weight stigma.

Results

We selected 24 studies published between 2009 and 2022, the majority concerning English-speaking countries. Reduction in weight stigma was observed in 23/24 studies, particularly through cognitive-behavioral techniques (18/24 studies), while others studies emphasized individual predispositions and the need for longer, and denser interventions.

Conclusion

Three relevant characteristics emerged from the studies analysed: content, duration and tools. Cognitive-behavioral techniques were central, aiding participants in managing their condition and coping with stigma. Interventions reducing Weight Bias Internalization (WBI) led to improved psychosocial determinants, yet the mechanisms remain unclear. Future research should address intervention duration, participant involvement, and the association between WBI and psychosocial factors to enhance outcomes and understanding.
The interactive effect of affectionate nicknames and streamer type on streamer attitude in E-commerce live streaming: the mediating role of psychological closeness
Authors: Liu Yuan , Liu Maohong
Published: December 2024

Background

With the widespread application of Artificial Intelligence technology in the field of E-commerce, human–machine relationships have attracted considerable attention within the field of psychology. Address forms, as crucial linguistic cues, have shown notable progress in advancing research on interpersonal relationships; however, a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics in interpersonal (or human–machine) relationships among interactors remains elusive. Therefore, based on Social Identity Theory, this paper explores the interactive effects and underlying mechanisms of affectionate nicknames and streamer type on streamer attitude in E-commerce live streaming, with consumers’ perceptions of psychological closeness serving as the mediating mechanism.

Methods

Two between-subjects experimental designs, both involving a 2 (Affectionate Nicknames: use vs. non-use) × 2 (Streamer Type: human streamer vs. virtual streamer) factorial structure, were conducted to test the hypotheses. Study 1, utilizing image materials, collected 368 samples on the Credamo to examine the interactive influence of streamer type and affectionate nicknames on streamer attitude. Study 2, employing video materials, gathered 370 samples on the same platform. While replicating and validating the findings of Study 1, it also revealed that the interactive effect of streamer type and affectionate nicknames on consumer’s streamer attitude is mediated by psychological closeness.

Results

This paper finds that consumers’ psychological closeness differs significantly across different streamer types, leading to potential variations in consumer attitude toward streamer type within different linguistic communication contexts. Specifically, when consumers encounter human streamers, using affectionate nicknames elicits a more positive streamer attitude compared to not using them; conversely, when consumers encounter virtual streamers, not using affectionate nicknames results in a more negative streamer attitude compared to using them.

Conclusion

This paper not only compares the linguistic and communicative distinctions between interpersonal relationships and human–machine relationships from a psychological perspective but also undertakes valuable empirical investigations into their interaction differences. Furthermore, it contributes to advancing research into consumer responses to commercial avatars and offers practical managerial guidance for businesses employing avatars in E-commerce live streaming practices.
Perceived discrimination as a predictor of cyberbullying: the mediating role of self-esteem and moderating role of self-compassion
Authors: Li Qianfeng , Shang Sicheng , Du Jiawen , Wu Jia , Xiao Shaobei
Published: December 2024

With the popularity of the internet, cyberbullying has emerged as an increasingly serious social issue, particularly affecting college students’ behavioral health. This study explores the relationship between perceived discrimination and cyberbullying, as well as the mediating role of self-esteem and the moderating role of self-compassion (SC) in this relationship. Using a longitudinal design, data were collected from 892 Chinese college students (414 females, 478 males) in two waves spanning 1 year. The present study measured the compassionate self-responding (CS) and reduced uncompassionate self-responding (RUS) as the two dimensions of self-compassion. The study found that (1) perceived discrimination was significantly and positively correlated with cyberbullying (r = 0.085, p < 0.05); (2) self-esteem mediated the relationship between perceived discrimination and cyberbullying (Indirect effect = 0.010, SE = 0.004, Boot 95% CI [0.003, 0.019]); (3) RUS moderated both the direct relationship between perceived discrimination and cyberbullying (b = −0.045, SE = 0.019, 95% CI [−0.082, −0.008]) as well as the indirect relationship through self-esteem (b = −0.081, SE = 0.033, 95% CI [−0.146, −0.015]). Simple slope analysis revealed that college students with high RUS exhibited less cyberbullying when facing discrimination, while those low in RUS were more likely to engage in cyberbullying. The SC exhibited similar moderating effects, but CS did not demonstrate significant moderating effects in those relationships. This study sheds light on the complex interplay between perceived discrimination, self-esteem, self-compassion, and cyberbullying and offers novel insights into the psychological mechanisms underlying cyberbullying among college students. The findings underscore the importance of interventions aimed at enhancing self-esteem and fostering self-compassion, particularly by addressing uncompassionate self-responding, as a strategy to prevent cyberbullying among disadvantaged college students.
Relationships among workaholism, personality, obsessive beliefs, and entrepreneurial motivation
Authors: Ghasemijalal Rojin , Serrano-Fernández María José , Boada-Cuerva Maria , Sora Beatriz , Assens-Serra Jordi , Boada-Grau Joan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Recent studies focusing mainly on entrepreneurial motivation have identified several variables (family security, motivation, and entrepreneurial intentions) as predictors of employee creativity. This research aims to provide insights into the underlying factors that shape entrepreneurial motivation, which can be used to develop effective strategies to support and foster entrepreneurship. In this study, we examine the relationship between workaholism, personality, obsessive beliefs and entrepreneurial motivation.

Methods

The study sample was comprised of 1,106 Spanish workers (48.51% men and 51.49% women) obtained through non-probability sampling.

Results

Our results showed that entrepreneurship motivation is related to personality traits. Positive relationships have been found with the variable perfectionism and intolerance of uncertainty, conscientiousness, work enjoyment, and agreeableness. Perfectionism and intolerance of uncertainty are the variables most strongly related to entrepreneurial motivation.

Discussion

Our study contributes to the body of literature that examines the relationships between workaholism, personality, obsessive beliefs, and entrepreneurial motivation. The practical implications suggest that entrepreneurship support programs could benefit from considering not only entrepreneurial orientation but also other variables such as perfectionism and work enjoyment.
Trajectories of antidepressant use and 6-year change in body weight: a prospective population-based cohort study
Authors: Lassale Camille , Lugon Gabriela , Hernáez Álvaro , Frank Philipp , Marrugat Jaume , Ramos Rafael , Garre-Olmo Josep , Elosua Roberto
Published: December 2024

Background

Antidepressant drug treatment may be associated with weight gain, but long-term studies are lacking.

Methods

We included 3,127 adults (1,701 women) from the REGICOR study, aged 55.6 (SD = 11.6) years on average in 2003–2006, living in the northeast of Spain. They had data at two time points (baseline and a median of 6.3 years later) on self-reported antidepressant use, body weight and height, and on baseline smoking, physical activity, diet quality, education, civil status, and depressive symptoms assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at follow-up. We defined four trajectories of antidepressant use as follows: never use, new use at follow-up, initial use discontinued, repeated use at both time points. We used multivariable linear models to estimate the association of these trajectories with the percentage of weight change. In people without obesity at baseline (n = 2,404), we also estimated the association with obesity incidence at follow-up.

Results

The average 6-year weight gain was 0.53 kg (1.01% body weight), and 24.5% of the participants gained >5% of body weight. The majority (83.6%) of participants did not report any use of antidepressants, 6.2% initiated during follow-up, 5.1% discontinued it, and 5.1% reported their use at both time points. In multivariable analyses, compared to never users, all trajectories were associated with greater weight gain: +1.78% (0.57, 2.98) for initial use discontinued, +2.08% (0.97, 3.19) for new use at follow-up, and +1.98% (95% CI: 0.75, 3.20) for repeated use. In non-obese participants at baseline (n = 2,404), the odds ratio for becoming obese was 2.06 (1.03, 3.96) for repeated use and non-statistically significant for the other trajectories.

Conclusions

In a population-based adult cohort, repeated use of antidepressants was strongly associated with weight gain. New and discontinued use was associated with weight gain, but non-significantly to obesity incidence. Given the global obesity epidemic and the widespread use of antidepressants, weight management and metabolic monitoring should be encouraged and integrated into depression follow-up guidelines alongside antidepressant prescriptions.
Acupuncture treatment of restless legs syndrome: a randomized clinical controlled study protocol based on PET-CT and fMRI
Authors: Tang Lin , Zhao Na , Gao Xiaolin , Li Jinjin , Yu Xintong , Liang Ruilong , Xie Chen , Li Lutong , Wang Qianqian , Yang Wenjia
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder of the nervous system that is mainly characterized by nighttime leg discomfort and can be accompanied by significant anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. RLS seriously affects the quality of life. Clinical studies have confirmed that acupuncture can alleviate the clinical symptoms of RLS. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to investigate the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of RLS and further explore the central response mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of RLS.

Methods and analysis

In this RCT, a total of 124 eligible patients in Shanghai will be randomly assigned to one of the following two groups: treatment group (acupuncture) and control group (sham acupuncture). Treatment will be given three times per week for 4 consecutive weeks. The primary outcome is the International Restless Legs severity rating scale (IRLSS). The secondary outcomes are the RLS-Quality of Life (RLSQoL), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA). The objective evaluation tools will be polysomnography, positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET-CT), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of the brain. All adverse effects will be assessed by the Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale. Outcomes will be evaluated at baseline (1 week before the first intervention), during the intervention (the second week of the intervention), after the intervention (at the end of the intervention), at 1-month follow-up, and at 3-month follow-up.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has been approved by the Ethics Committee of Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine (no. 2022-061). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals or presented at academic conferences.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/, identifier ChiCTR2000037287.
Countertransference, alliance, and outcome in the treatment of patients with personality disorder: a longitudinal naturalistic study
Authors: Breivik Øvstebø Randi , Pedersen Geir , Wilberg Theresa , Røssberg Jan Ivar , Johnsen Dahl Hanne-Sofie , Kvarstein Elfrida Hartveit
Published: December 2024

Objective

Relational dynamics, including countertransference responses and the therapeutic alliance, are crucial in the treatment of patients with personality disorders (PD). However, few studies on PD treatment focus on the dyadic process of therapy. The present study aims to investigate associations between therapist emotional response/countertransference (CT) and patients’ experience of treatment alliance, and CT developments in therapies with treatment completion as outcome.

Method

A longitudinal, observational study of patients (N = 365) treated at PD treatment units within specialist mental health services. CT was assessed repeatedly during therapy by the Feeling Word Checklist – Brief Version with three subscales—Inadequate, Confident, and Idealized. Early alliance was assessed after 6 months of treatment (Working Alliance Inventory, WAI). Treatment completion was defined as completing treatment according to schedule versus not completing treatment. Statistical analyses included Linear Mixed Models.

Results

In the early phase of therapy, lower WAI predicted lower levels of Confident, Idealized, and higher Inadequate CT. The relation between early WAI and CT levels during treatment remained stable. The development of CT during treatment differed according to treatment completion with significant trends of increasing Inadequate CT and decreasing Idealized CT in not completed treatments. WAI and treatment completion had strong and independent effects. Further moderator analysis did not yield additional information.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates significant associations between negative CTs and lower patient-rated WAI in the early phase of therapy, and a development of increasingly more negative CTs during therapy in treatments which were not completed according to schedule. The results indicate high clinical relevance of monitoring therapeutic relationships in PD treatments. Further research on the emotional and relational quality of psychotherapeutic relationships in PD treatments is needed.
Moderating effects of demographic characteristics on the relationship between parenting practices and energy balance related behaviors of Chinese preschoolers
Authors: Peng Zhou , Lau Patrick Wing-chung , Wen Li Ming
Published: December 2024

Background

Early establishment of energy balance related behaviors (EBRBs) may be effective in combating unhealthy lifestyle in preschoolers. Parents are responsible for cultivating preschoolers’ EBRBs directly through parenting practices. Although investigating the impact of various parenting practices on preschoolers’ EBRBs is crucial to determine which practices should be recommended to parents to help reverse childhood unhealthy lifestyle, it is important to assess whether these effects of parenting practices on preschoolers’ EBRBs would be similar across different groups of preschoolers, necessitating research into the moderating effects of demographic characteristics.

Methods

Baseline dataset was utilized from an electronic health intervention study of Chinese 3-6-year-old preschoolers. Preschoolers’ PA and sleep duration and quality were objectively examined using wGT3X ActiGraph accelerometer. Data related to parents and preschoolers’ eating behaviors and sleep problems were subjectively assessed using parent-reported questionnaires. The PROCESS macro version 4.2 was used to perform moderation analysis. When the interaction revealed a p-value of less than 0.05 and the 95% confidence interval did not include 0, the conditional effects of the focal predictor at various levels of the moderator were further examined (p < 0.05) to investigate how the relationship between parenting practices and preschoolers’ EBRBs varied with different moderator levels.

Results

Married parents exhibited the desired outcomes in the relationship between parenting practices and their preschoolers’ EBRBs. In contrast, divorced/separated parents showed unfavorable results in this relationship. The association between the parents’ and preschoolers’ BMI varied depending on parents’ socioeconomic status, the preschoolers’ age, and the number of children in the household. The preschoolers’ age showed different moderating trend on the relationship between parents’ PA and preschoolers’ sedentary behaviors as well as the association of eating-related PSE with preschoolers’ eating behaviors. The mechanisms linking the parents’ PSE to the preschoolers’ PA, sedentary behaviors, and sleep duration were influenced by the preschoolers’ gender and the number of children in the household.

Conclusion

The potential parental influence warrants further investigation with the consideration that the relationship between parenting practices and preschoolers’ EBRBs varied across different group of children.

Clinical trial registration

NCT06025019.
Healthcare provider perspectives on barriers and facilitators to integration of cardiovascular disease-related care into HIV care and treatment clinics in urban Tanzania
Authors: Ottaru Theresia A. , Ngakongwa Fileuka C. , Butt Zeeshan , Hawkins Claudia A. , Kaaya Sylvia F. , Metta Emmy O. , Chillo Pilly , Siril Helen N. , Hirschhorn Lisa R. , Kwesigabo Gideon P.
Published: December 2024

Background

The increase in the dual burden of HIV and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), calls for the provision of integrated HIV/CVD care. This study aimed to explore barriers and facilitators to the integration of HIV/CVD care within HIV care and treatment clinics (CTCs) in urban, Tanzania.

Methods

Between March and April 2023, we conducted 12 key informant interviews with healthcare providers at six HIV CTCs in urban, Tanzania. Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR 1.0), we designed the interview guide and conducted a thematic analysis.

Results

Out of the 11 CFIR constructs explored, three were barriers (cost, availability of resources, and access to information and knowledge), six were facilitators (complexity, relative advantage, patient needs, external policies and incentives, relative priority, and knowledge and belief about the intervention), and two (compatibility and self-efficacy) were both barriers and facilitators. Barriers to integration included a lack of equipment, such as BP machines, lack of space, unavailability of an electronic data-capturing tool at the HIV CTCs for monitoring CVD outcomes, and a shortage of trained healthcare workers, particularly in managing CVD comorbidities according to current recommendations. Providers acknowledged the increasing demand for CVD care among ALHIV and regarded integration as not a complex task. Providers reported that both services could be delivered simultaneously without disrupting client workflow and were determined to offer integrated care within HIV CTCs. Providers expressed concerns about medication costs and recommended that medications should be provided for free as part of the integrated care.

Conclusion

Effective and sustainable HIV/CVD integrated care requires an understating of the existing barriers and facilitators within the HIV CTCs. This study identifies key barriers at HIV CTCs that must be addressed and facilitators to be leveraged before CVD care is integrated into HIV CTCs to ensure that CVD care is delivered effectively within an integrated system.
Public advocates, private advisors: the autonomy, function, and influence of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology
Authors: Evans Kenneth M. , Matthews Kirstin R. W.
Published: December 2024

US national expert advisory bodies related to science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy have a wide range of missions, governing structures, operational practices, cultures, and impact on federal policymaking. This paper offers an analytical framework for assessing the autonomy, function, and influence of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), a federal advisory committee consisting of 30 elite scientists, engineers, and industry leaders appointed by and advising the president. We demonstrate that PCAST carries both a strong instrumental advisory role, providing substantive advice to White House STI policy development, and a significant symbolic advisory role, offering visible public support to presidential decisions and initiatives related to STI. However, we find that the council's engagement with either or both roles has shifted depending on its available resources, the policy agenda of the administration it serves, the level of presidential attention, and the priorities of council leadership. The paper concludes with recommendations to guide future PCASTs in fulfilling their mission and appropriately influencing US national STI policy.
An integrated framework for multi-granular explanation of video summarization
Authors: Tsigos Konstantinos , Apostolidis Evlampios , Mezaris Vasileios
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we propose an integrated framework for multi-granular explanation of video summarization. This framework integrates methods for producing explanations both at the fragment level (indicating which video fragments influenced the most the decisions of the summarizer) and the more fine-grained visual object level (highlighting which visual objects were the most influential for the summarizer). To build this framework, we extend our previous work on this field, by investigating the use of a model-agnostic, perturbation-based approach for fragment-level explanation of the video summarization results, and introducing a new method that combines the results of video panoptic segmentation with an adaptation of a perturbation-based explanation approach to produce object-level explanations. The performance of the developed framework is evaluated using a state-of-the-art summarization method and two datasets for benchmarking video summarization. The findings of the conducted quantitative and qualitative evaluations demonstrate the ability of our framework to spot the most and least influential fragments and visual objects of the video for the summarizer, and to provide a comprehensive set of visual-based explanations about the output of the summarization process.
Curlometer and gradient techniques: past and future applications
Authors: Dunlop M. W. , Fu H.-S. , Shen C. , Tan X. , Dong X.-C. , Yang Y.-Y. , Robert P. , Escoubet C. P.
Published: December 2024

We review the range of applications and use of multi spacecraft techniques, applicable to close formation arrays of spacecraft, focusing on spatial gradient based methods, and the curlometer in particular. The curlometer was originally applied to Cluster multi-spacecraft magnetic field data, but later was updated for different environments and measurement constraints such as the NASA MMS mission, small-scale formation of 4 spacecraft; the 3 spacecraft configurations of the NASA THEMIS mision, and derived 2-4 point measurements from the ESA Swarm mission. In general, spatial gradient based methods are adaptable to a range of multi-point and multi-scale arrays. We also review the range of other techniques based on the computation of magnetic field gradients and magnetic field topology in general, including: magnetic rotation analysis and various least squares approaches. We review Taylor expansion methodology (FOTE), in particular, which has also been applied to both Cluster and MMS constellations, as well as interpretation of simulations. Four-point estimates of magnetic gradients are limited by uncertainties in spacecraft separations and the magnetic field, as well as the presence of non-linear gradients and temporal evolution. Nevertheless, the techniques can be reliable in many magnetospheric regions where time stationarity is largely applicable, or when properties of the morphology can be assumed (for example, the expected orientation of underlying large-scale structure). Many magnetospheric regions have been investigated directly (illustrated here by the magnetopause, ring current and field-aligned currents at high and low altitudes), and options for variable numbers of spacecraft have been considered. The comparative use of plasma measurements and possible new methodology for arrays of spacecraft greater than four are also considered briefly.