bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissection in biology education compared to alternative methods in terms of their influence on students’ emotional experience
Authors: Kaiser Lisa-Maria , Polte Sabrina , Kirchhoff Tim , Großmann Nadine , Wilde Matthias
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Dissecting animal organs is a method of biology teaching that offers a direct and authentic view into morphological structures and enables hands-on activity and multisensory experiences. However, the dissection process is often associated with certain (negative) emotions that might hinder successful learning. One such emotion that is particularly common during dissection is disgust. Experiencing disgust can negatively affect emotional experiences. Consequently, alternatives for dissection in biology lessons are being sought.

Methods

In this study, the method of dissection is compared with two common methods of teaching the anatomy of the mammalian eye: watching a video and working with an anatomical model. The focus of the comparison is on the influence on the following emotional qualities of experience: perceived disgust, perceived interest, well-being and boredom. Two hundred and eighteen students (Mage= 14.19,SDage= 1.02 years, 52% female) from secondary schools in Germany participated in a two-hour lesson on the anatomy of the mammalian eye using one of the three aforementioned teaching methods.

Findings

Our results show that perceived disgust was higher for the dissection group than in the ones that worked with a video or a model. We found that dissecting and watching a video led to a similar level of interest, well-being, and boredom. The anatomical model was perceived as less disgusting but more boring than the dissection. The detailed videos of a dissection seem to offer similar positive emotional experiences when compared to dissecting in class and may be an alternative approach when teachers have concerns about performing a real dissection.
Examining the relationship between birth weight and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis
Authors: Ni Meng , Li Lijuan , Li Wei , Zhang Qianqian , Zhao Jiuru , Shen Qianwen , Yao Dongting , Wang Tao , Li Baihe , Ding Xiya , Qi Sudong , Huang Xiaoyi , Liu Zhiwei
Published: May 2023

Background

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is prevalent in children worldwide. We evaluated the potential relationship between birth weight and ADHD using newly released data from the National Survey of Children’s Health 2019–2020.

Methods

This population-based survey study used parent recollection data that were collected and submitted by 50 states and the District of Columbia to the National Survey of Children’s Health database from the National Survey of Children’s Health database. Those aged < 3 years and without birth weight or ADHD records were excluded. Children were stratified according to ADHD diagnosis and birth weight: very low birth weight (VLBW, < 1,500 g), low birth weight (LBW, 1,500–2,500 g), and normal birth weight (NBW, ≥ 2,500 g). Multivariable logistic regression was applied to examine the causal association between birth weight and ADHD while controlling for child and household characteristics.

Results

The final sample consisted of 60,358 children, of whom 6,314 (9.0%) were reported to have an ADHD diagnosis. The prevalence of ADHD was 8.7% in NBW children, 11.5% in LBW, and 14.4% in VLBW. Compared with NBW children, LBW children [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.32 (95% CI, 1.03–1.68)], and VLBW children [aOR, 1.51 (95% CI, 1.06–2.15)] had a significantly higher risk of ADHD after adjusting all variables. These associations persisted in the male subgroups.

Conclusion and relevance

This study found that LBW and VLBW children were at a higher risk of ADHD.
Body exposure and vocal analysis: validation of fundamental frequency as a correlate of emotional arousal and valence
Authors: Opladen Vanessa , Tanck Julia A. , Baur Julia , Hartmann Andrea S. , Svaldi Jennifer , Vocks Silja
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Vocal analysis of fundamental frequency (f0) represents a suitable index to assess emotional activation. However, althoughf0 has often been used as an indicator of emotional arousal and different affective states, its psychometric properties are unclear. Specifically, there is uncertainty regarding the validity of the indices off0meanandf0variabilitymeasures(f0dispersion,f0range, andf0SD) and whether higher or lowerf0 indices are associated with higher arousal in stressful situations. The present study therefore aimed to validatef0 as a marker of vocally encoded emotional arousal, valence, and body-related distress during body exposure as a psychological stressor.

Methods

N= 73 female participants first underwent a 3-min, non-activating neutral reference condition, followed by a 7-min activating body exposure condition. Participants completed questionnaires on affect (i.e., arousal, valence, body-related distress), and their voice data and heart rate (HR) were recorded continuously. Vocal analyses were performed using Praat, a program for extracting paralinguistic measures from spoken audio.

Results

The results revealed no effects forf0 and state body dissatisfaction or general affect.F0meancorrelated positively with self-reported arousal and negatively with valence, but was not correlated with HRmean/maximum. No correlations with any measure were found for anyf0variabililtymeasures.

Discussion

Given the promising findings regardingf0meanfor arousal and valence and the inconclusive findings regardingf0 as a marker of general affect and body-related distress, it may be assumed thatf0meanrepresents a valid global marker of emotional arousal and valence rather than of concrete body-related distress. In view of the present findings regarding the validity off0, it may be suggested thatf0mean, but notf0variabilitymeasures, can be used to assess emotional arousal and valence in addition to self-report measures, which is less intrusive than conventional psychophysiological measures.
Implementing biofeedback treatment in a psychosomatic-psychotherapeutic inpatient unit: a mixed methods evaluation of acceptance, satisfaction, and feasibility
Authors: Schmidt Kira , Barac-Dammeyer Drazena , Kowalski Axel , Teigelack Per , Pfeiffer Corinna , Robitzsch Anita , Dörrie Nora , Skoda Eva-Maria , Bäuerle Alexander , Fink Madeleine , Teufel Martin
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Feedback-based therapies such as biofeedback have a benefit in patients with mental health disorders. While biofeedback is heavily researched in outpatient settings, it has been rarely investigated in psychosomatic inpatient settings. The implementation of an additional treatment option in inpatient settings holds special requirements. The aim of this pilot study is the evaluation of additional biofeedback treatment in an inpatient psychosomatic-psychotherapeutic unit to derive clinical implications and recommendations for the future implementation of biofeedback offers.

Methods

The evaluation of the implementation process was investigated using a convergent parallel mixed methods approach (following MMARS guidelines). Quantitative questionnaires measured patients’ acceptance and satisfaction with biofeedback treatment after receiving 10 sessions in addition to treatment as usual. After 6 months during implementation, qualitative interviews were conducted with biofeedback practitioners, i.e., staff nurses, examining acceptance and feasibility. Data analysis was conducted using either descriptive statistics or Mayring’s qualitative content analysis.

Results

In total, 40 patients and 10 biofeedback practitioners were included. Quantitative questionnaires revealed high satisfaction and acceptance in patients regarding biofeedback treatment. Qualitative interviews showed high acceptance in biofeedback practitioners but revealed several challenges that were encountered during the implementation process, e.g., increased workload due to additional tasks, organizational and structural difficulties. However, biofeedback practitioners were enabled to expand their own competencies and take over a therapeutic part of the inpatient treatment.

Discussion

Even though patient satisfaction and staff motivation are high, the implementation of biofeedback in an inpatient unit requires special actions to be taken. Not only should personnel resources be planned and available in advance of implementation but also be the workflow for biofeedback practitioners as easy and quality of biofeedback treatment as high as possible. Consequently, the implementation of a manualized biofeedback treatment should be considered. Nevertheless, more research needs to be done about suitable biofeedback protocols for this patient clientele.
Analysis of the status of social frailty in Chinese older adults with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Qi Xin , Jia Na , Hu Jiabin , Meng Ling-bing , Zeng Ping , Liu Junmeng , Shi Jing , Zeng Xuezhai , Li Hui , Zhang Qiuxia , Li Juan , Liu Deping
Published: May 2023

Background

Social frailty is one type of frailty. Physical frailty with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVD) have been studied a lot, but less research on social frailty.

Objectives

To study the prevalence, related risk factors and regional differences of social frailty with CCVD in Chinese older adults.

Methods

SSAPUR was a national cross-sectional survey. Participants aged 60 years or older were recruited in August 2015. Demographic data and information regarding family, health and medical conditions, living environment conditions, social participation, spiritual and cultural life, and health condition were obtained. Social frailty was assessed in five areas (HALFE Social Frailty Index) including inability to help others, limited social participation, loneliness, financial difficulty, and living alone. The prevalence of CCVD with social frailty, related risk factors and regional differences in CCVD with social frailty were studied.

Results

A total of 222,179 participants were enrolled. 28.4% of them had CCVD history. The prevalence of social frailty in the CCVD group was 16.03%. In CCVD participants, compared with the group without social frailty, there were significant differences in gender, age, urban–rural distribution, ethnicity, marital status, and education levels in the social frailty group. Significant differences were also found in physical exercise participation, health status, cataract, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hospitalization within 1 year, self-assessed health status, crutch or wheelchair usage, urinary and fecal incontinence, need for care from others, fall history, housing satisfaction, and self-assessed happiness in the social frailty group. Women with CCVD had a higher prevalence of social frailty than men. By age in CCVD with social frailty, the highest prevalence was found in participants 75–79 years old. The prevalence of CCVD was significant difference between social frailty in urban and rural group. The prevalence of social frailty with CCVD was significantly different in different regions. The highest prevalence was 20.4% in southwest area, and the lowest prevalence was 12.5% in northeast with area.

Conclusion

The prevalence of social frailty among the CCVD older adults is high. Factors such as gender, age, region, urban–rural residence, and the state of the disease may be associated with social frailty.
Stool Xpert MTB/RIF as a possible diagnostic alternative to sputum in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Segala Francesco Vladimiro , Papagni Roberta , Cotugno Sergio , De Vita Elda , Susini Maria Chiara , Filippi Valeria , Tulone Ottavia , Facci Enzo , Lattanzio Rossana , Marotta Claudia , Manenti Fabio , Bavaro Davide Fiore , De Iaco Giuseppina , Putoto Giovanni , Veronese Nicola , Barbagallo Mario , Saracino Annalisa , Di Gennaro Francesco
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Worldwide, COVID-19 pandemic lead to a large fall in the number of newly reported TB cases. In sub-Saharan Africa, microbiological diagnosis of TB is generally based on smear microscopy and Xpert MTB/RIF on sputum samples, but good quality sputum samples are often difficult to obtain, leading clinicians to rely on more invasive procedures for diagnosis. Aim of this study was to investigate pooled sensitivity and specificity of Xpert MTB/RIF on stool samples compared to respiratory microbiological reference standards in African countries.

Methods

Four investigators independently searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science until 12th October 2022, then screened titles and abstracts of all potentially eligible articles. The authors applied the eligibility criteria, considered the full texts. All the studies reported the data regarding true positive (TP), true negative (TN), false positive (FP) and false negative (FN). Risk of bias and applicability concerns were assessed with the Quadas-2 tool.

Results

overall, among 130 papers initially screened, we evaluated 47 works, finally including 13 papers for a total of 2,352 participants, mainly children. The mean percentage of females was 49.6%, whilst the mean percentage of patients reporting HIV was 27.7%. Pooled sensitivity for Xpert MTB/RIF assay for detecting pulmonary tuberculosis was 68.2% (95%CI: 61.1–74.7%) even if characterized by a high heterogeneity (I2=53.7%). Specificity was almost 100% (99%, 95%CI: 97–100%; I2 = 45.7%). When divided for reference standard, in the six studies using sputum and nasogastric aspirate the accuracy was optimal (AUC = 0.99, SE = 0.02), whilst in the studies using only sputum for tuberculosis detection the AUC was 0.85 (with a SE = 0.16). The most common source of bias was exclusion of enrolled patients in the analysis.

Conclusions

Our study confirms that, in Africa, stool Xpert MTB/RIF may be a useful rule-in test for children above and below 5 years of age under evaluation for pulmonary tuberculosis. Sensitivity increased substantially when using both sputum and nasogastric aspirate as reference samples.
Socio-demographic determinants of the knowledge and attitude of Nepalese healthcare workers toward human monkeypox: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Das Santa Kumar , Bhattarai Abhinav , KC Simran , Shah Sangam , Paudel Kiran , Timsina Sakchhyam , Tharu Sunraj , Rawal Laba , Leon-Figueroa Dawin A. , Rodriguez-Morales Alfonso J. , Barboza Joshuan J. , Sah Ranjit
Published: May 2023

Human monkeypox is an infectious zoonotic disease and since May 2022, there has been a spike in cases worldwide. In this regard, a global health emergency has been declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on July 23rd, 2022. Although there have been no confirmed human monkeypox cases in Nepal yet, the nation is undeniably at risk of an outbreak. Despite all preventive efforts and preparedness for monkeypox, there still remain several challenges including the literacy and knowledge of our healthcare workers regarding monkeypox. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and attitude of Nepalese healthcare workers regarding monkeypox. A cross-sectional study was performed on different healthcare workers at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital on the month of October 2022 using a set of validated questionnaires used previously in a Saudi Arabian study. An in-person survey was conducted where a total of 220 questionnaires were distributed. The response rate was 93%. Knowledge was categorized into high or low based on the mean knowledge score. The attitude was assessed using a 3-point Likert scale. The association of the knowledge and attitude of the respondents in accordance with their socio-demographics was statistically evaluated using Pearson’s Chi-square test. The mean knowledge score was 13. A larger proportion of the respondents (60.4%) demonstrated a high knowledge and 51.1% demonstrated a positive attitude. Studying monkeypox during medical education possessed a significant difference in the attitude (p = 0.025). Knowledge did not vary based on socio-demographic characteristics. Despite almost half a year into the monkeypox outbreak, Nepalese healthcare workers still have an unsatisfying degree of knowledge and a negative attitude regarding its control which shows the need for education and awareness.
Assessing longitudinal housing status using Electronic Health Record data: a comparison of natural language processing, structured data, and patient-reported history
Authors: Chapman Alec B. , Cordasco Kristina , Chassman Stephanie , Panadero Talia , Agans Dylan , Jackson Nicholas , Clair Kimberly , Nelson Richard , Montgomery Ann Elizabeth , Tsai Jack , Finley Erin , Gabrielian Sonya
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Measuring long-term housing outcomes is important for evaluating the impacts of services for individuals with homeless experience. However, assessing long-term housing status using traditional methods is challenging. The Veterans Affairs (VA) Electronic Health Record (EHR) provides detailed data for a large population of patients with homeless experiences and contains several indicators of housing instability, including structured data elements (e.g., diagnosis codes) and free-text clinical narratives. However, the validity of each of these data elements for measuring housing stability over time is not well-studied.

Methods

We compared VA EHR indicators of housing instability, including information extracted from clinical notes using natural language processing (NLP), with patient-reported housing outcomes in a cohort of homeless-experienced Veterans.

Results

NLP achieved higher sensitivity and specificity than standard diagnosis codes for detecting episodes of unstable housing. Other structured data elements in the VA EHR showed promising performance, particularly when combined with NLP.

Discussion

Evaluation efforts and research studies assessing longitudinal housing outcomes should incorporate multiple data sources of documentation to achieve optimal performance.
Evidence-Based Quality Improvement (EBQI) in the pre-implementation phase: key steps and activities
Authors: Swindle Taren , Baloh Jure , Landes Sara J. , Lovelady Nakita N. , Vincenzo Jennifer L. , Hamilton Alison B. , Zielinski Melissa J. , Teeter Benjamin S. , Gorvine Margaret M. , Curran Geoffrey M.
Published: May 2023

Background

Evidence-Based Quality Improvement (EBQI) involves researchers and local partners working collaboratively to support the uptake of an evidence-based intervention (EBI). To date, EBQI has not been consistently included in community-engaged dissemination and implementation literature. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the steps, activities, and outputs of EBQI in the pre-implementation phase.

Methods

The research team applied comparative case study methods to describe key steps, activities, and outputs of EBQI across seven projects. Our approach included: (1) specification of research questions, (2) selection of cases, (3) construction of a case codebook, (4) coding of cases using the codebook, and (5) comparison of cases.

Results

The cases selected included five distinct settings (e.g., correction facilities, community pharmacies), seven EBIs (e.g., nutrition promotion curriculum, cognitive processing therapy) and five unique lead authors. Case examples include both community-embedded and clinically-oriented projects. Key steps in the EBQI process included: (1) forming a local team of partners and experts, (2) prioritizing implementation determinants based on existing literature/data, (3) selecting strategies and/or adaptations in the context of key determinants, (4) specifying selected strategies/adaptations, and (5) refining strategies/adaptations. Examples of activities are included to illustrate how each step was achieved. Outputs included prioritized determinants, EBI adaptations, and implementation strategies.

Conclusions

A primary contribution of our comparative case study is the delineation of various steps and activities of EBQI, which may contribute to the replicability of the EBQI process across other implementation research projects.
Time to care—Care for time—How spending more time for care than consumption helps to mitigate climate change
Authors: Smetschka Barbara , Gaube Veronika , Mader Katharina
Published: May 2023

Mitigating climate change requires urgent reductions in emissions. Demand-side measures focus on footprints (direct and indirect emissions) of consumption. Analyzing time use brings a novel perspective to discuss the carbon implications of everyday life and the potentials and limitations for decarbonizing consumption. In this study, we show how time-use studies can serve as a bridging concept between sustainability studies and the analysis of human wellbeing for all. We introduce a functional time-use perspective differentiating personal, committed, contracted, and free time. We calculate the average carbon intensity of everyday activities in Austria in 2010 combining the Austrian Time-use Survey and Austrian Household Budget Survey with Eora-MRIO. We find that these activities differ widely in carbon intensity. Personal time is relatively low-carbon intense, while free time activities show large variation in terms of CO2e footprint/hour. The traditional gendered division of labor shapes the time-use patterns of women and men, with implications for their carbon footprints. Reassessing and sharing unpaid reproductive caring activities are the basis for solving some urgent ecological and social problems. The way household members use their time, the resource demand of households and infrastructure, and the services provided by communities entail each other. Time use, time prosperity, and especially time scarcity determine our quality of life. Caring activities as “time to care” play a crucial role in pathways toward socio-ecological transformation and gender equality. Further research in the field of time, care, and gender studies could be based on this framework and add new perspectives on research on sustainable development.
Tea polyphenols: extraction techniques and its potency as a nutraceutical
Authors: Shaukat Horia , Ali Anwar , Zhang Yang , Ahmad Arslan , Riaz Sakhawat , Khan Ahmal , Mehany Taha , Qin Hong
Published: May 2023

Usually, polyphenols help address numerous health issues caused by oxidative stress. Tea is a popular beverage (rich in polyphenols) with abundant health promoting and disease prevention with great health-promoting and disease-prevention attributes, originating from the delicate, dried leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Tea has been proven to have health-boosting impacts like anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-diabetic, and aids in weight loss. Cognitive impairment, also known as cognitive decline caused by aging or other neurological disorders, has become an emerging health concern. Tea polyphenols, especially phenolic acids, havegained enormous attention due to their link to improved cognitive function by preventing cognitive decline. This review summarizes recent studies on the health benefits of polyphenols in tea. Additionally, effective traditional and modern techniques to extract polyphenols and their effects on various diseases have been described.
Density-Dependent Seed Predation of Quercus wutaishanica by Rodents in Response to Different Seed States
Authors: Luo Yonghong , Cheng Jiming , Yan Xingfu , Yang Hui , Shen Yan , Ge Jingru , Zhang Min , Zhang Jinfeng , Xu Zhuwen
Published: May 2023

The predation and/or dispersal of Quercus seeds by rodents play an important role in the creation of the tree species. The present study examined the effects of community habitats on the predation and dispersal of Quercus wutaishanica seeds by rodents. We released seeds with densities set at 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 seed square meter with litter cover, soil burial, and bare ground in the Liupan Mountains National Nature Reserve in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, northwest China. The results showed that (1) the litter cover and soil burial significantly increased the seed survival probability compared with bare ground treatments, especially the predation in situ (PIS) (p < 0.05). Both the scatter hoarding (SH) and larder hoarding (LH) for litter cover and soil burial were significantly increased compared with bare ground (p < 0.05). (2) The large seeds are preferentially predated after dispersal and their long-distance dispersal (>5 m) was significantly greater than that of small seeds (p < 0.05), while small seeds are more likely to be preyed on in situ or during short-distance dispersal (<3 m). (3) The Q. wutaishanica seed predation by rodents increased at a high density rather than at a low density, indicating a negative density-dependent predation. These findings provide insights into the ecological characteristics of Quercus tree regeneration and shed light on the coexistence between rodents and different-sized seeds.
A Special Structural Based Weighted Network Approach for the Analysis of Protein Complexes
Authors: Ochieng Peter Juma , Dombi József , Kalmár Tibor , Krész Miklós
Published: May 2023

The detection and analysis of protein complexes is essential for understanding the functional mechanism and cellular integrity. Recently, several techniques for detecting and analysing protein complexes from Protein–Protein Interaction (PPI) dataset have been developed. Most of those techniques are inefficient in terms of detecting, overlapping complexes, exclusion of attachment protein in complex core, inability to detect inherent structures of underlying complexes, have high false-positive rates and an enrichment analysis. To address these limitations, we introduce a special structural-based weighted network approach for the analysis of protein complexes based on a Weighted Edge, Core-Attachment and Local Modularity structures (WECALM). Experimental results indicate that WECALM performs relatively better than existing algorithms in terms of accuracy, computational time, and p-value. A functional enrichment analysis also shows that WECALM is able to identify a large number of biologically significant protein complexes. Overall, WECALM outperforms other approaches by striking a better balance of accuracy and efficiency in the detection of protein complexes.
A Novel Algebraic System in Quantum Field Theory
Authors: Alhaidari Abdulaziz D. , Laradji Abdallah
Published: May 2023

An algebraic system is introduced which is very useful for performing scattering calculations in quantum field theory. It is the set of all real numbers greater than or equal to −m2 with parity designation and a special rule for addition and subtraction, where m is the rest mass of the scattered particle.
Relevance and Reliability of Outdoor SO2 Monitoring in Low-Income Countries Using Low-Cost Sensors
Authors: González Rivero Rosa Amalia , Schalm Olivier , Alvarez Cruz Arianna , Hernández Rodríguez Erik , Morales Pérez Mayra C. , Alejo Sánchez Daniellys , Martinez Laguardia Alain , Jacobs Werner , Hernández Santana Luis
Published: May 2023

In the Western world, the SO2 concentration in ambient air dropped to low levels, but some emission sources (e.g., merchant ships) and some regions (e.g., low-income countries) still emit substantial amounts of SO2. At those locations, SO2 monitoring is critical. However, low-income countries do not have much access to expensive reference instruments. Low-cost gas sensors might be an alternative, but it is unclear how reliable such measurements are. To evaluate the performance of the low-cost alternative, the same SO2 gas sensor has been subjected to three different calibration methods: (1) low-cost calibration performed in the tropical climate of Cuba; (2) high-end calibration performed in Belgium; (3) a field calibration at an air quality measuring station in Belgium. The first two methods showed similar trends, suggesting that the gas sensor can be calibrated with a low-cost method. The field calibration was hampered by the low SO2 concentrations. For the monitoring campaign in Cienfuegos, Cuba, the low-cost SO2 sensor calibrated by the low-cost method appeared to be sufficiently reliable. The reliability of the sensor increases with the increase in SO2 concentration, so it can be used in Cuba instead of Belgium.
Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Mode of Action of the Anti-Bacterial Artemisia Plants
Authors: Umam Khotibul , Feng Ching-Shan , Yang Greta , Tu Ping-Chen , Lin Chih-Yu , Yang Meng-Ting , Kuo Tien-Fen , Yang Wen-Chin , Tran Nguyen Minh Hieu
Published: May 2023

Over 70,000 people die of bacterial infections worldwide annually. Antibiotics have been liberally used to treat these diseases and, consequently, antibiotic resistance and drug ineffectiveness has been generated. In this environment, new anti-bacterial compounds are being urgently sought. Around 500 Artemisia species have been identified worldwide. Most species of this genus are aromatic and have multiple functions. Research into the Artemisia plants has expanded rapidly in recent years. Herein, we aim to update and summarize recent information about the phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of the Artemisia plants. A literature search of articles published between 2003 to 2022 in PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science databases, and KNApSAcK metabolomics databases revealed that 20 Artemisia species and 75 compounds have been documented to possess anti-bacterial functions and multiple modes of action. We focus and discuss the progress in understanding the chemistry (structure and plant species source), anti-bacterial activities, and possible mechanisms of these phytochemicals. Mechanistic studies show that terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins and others (miscellaneous group) were able to destroy cell walls and membranes in bacteria and interfere with DNA, proteins, enzymes and so on in bacteria. An overview of new anti-bacterial strategies using plant compounds and extracts is also provided.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Using Stem Cell Delivery Patch in a Cavernous Nerve Injury Rat Model
Authors: Moon Hyong Woo , Kim In Gul , Kim Mee Young , Jung Ae Ryang , Park Kwideok , Lee Ji Youl
Published: May 2023

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common and feared complication of radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer. Recently, tissue engineering for post-prostatectomy ED has been attempted in which controlled interactions between cells, growth factors, and the extracellular matrix (ECM) are important for the structural integrity if nerve regeneration. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a biomechanical ECM patch on the morphology and behavior of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) in a bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI) rat model. The ECM patch, made of decellularized human fibroblast-derived ECM (hFDM) and a biocompatible polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel, was tested with human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) on a bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI) rat model. In vitro analysis showed that the hFDM/PVA + hBMSCs patches significantly increased neural development markers. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the rats treated with the hFDM/PVA patch had higher ICP/MAP ratios, higher ratios of smooth muscle to collagen, increased nNOS content, higher levels of eNOS protein expression, and higher cGMP levels compared to the BCNI group. These results indicate that the hFDM/PVA patch is effective in promoting angiogenesis, smooth muscle regeneration, and nitrergic nerve regeneration, which could contribute to improved erectile function in post-prostatectomy ED.
Evolutionary Shift of Insect Diapause Strategy in a Warming Climate: An Intra-Population Evidence from Asian Corn Borer
Authors: Wang Lianxia , Liu Kaiqiang , Zhao Xiumei , Zhang Tiantao , Yuan Ming , He Kanglai
Published: May 2023

Herbivorous insects having variable numbers of generations annually depending on climate and day length conditions are increasingly breeding additional generations driven by elevated temperature under the scenario of global warming, which will increase insect abundance and result in more frequent damage events. Theoretically, this relies on two premises, i.e., either an evolutionary shift to facultative diapause for an insect behaving an obligatory diapause or developmental plasticity to alter voltinism productively for an insect with facultative diapause before shortening photoperiods inducing diapause. Inter-population evidence supporting the premise (theory) comes primarily from a model system with voltinism linked to thermal gradients across latitude. We examined the intra-population evidence in the field (47°24′ N, 123°68′ E) with Ostrinia furnacalis, one of the most destructive pests, on corn in Asia and Pacific islands. The species was univoltine in high latitudinal areas (≤46° N). Divergence of the diapause feature (obligatory and facultative) was observed within the field populations from 2016 to 2021. Warmer climates would provoke more facultative diapause individuals to initiate a second generation, which will significantly drive the population to evolve toward facultative diapause (multi-voltinism). Both divergent diapause and temperature must be considered for accurate prediction of phenology and population dynamics in ACB.
Intense Locomotion Enhances Oviposition in the Freshwater Mollusc Lymnaea stagnalis: Cellular and Molecular Correlates
Authors: Chistopolsky Ilya , Leonova Alexandra , Mezheritskiy Maxim , Boguslavsky Dmitri , Kristinina Angelina , Zakharov Igor , Sorminskiy Andrey , Vorontsov Dmitri , Dyakonova Varvara
Published: May 2023

Intense species-specific locomotion changes the behavioural and cognitive states of various vertebrates and invertebrates. However, whether and how reproductive behaviour is affected by previous increased motor activity remains largely unknown. We addressed this question using a model organism, the pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis. Intense crawling in shallow water for two hours had previously been shown to affect orienting behaviour in a new environment as well as the state of the serotonergic system in L. stagnalis. We found that the same behaviour resulted in an increased number of egg clutches and the total number of eggs laid in the following 24 h. However, the number of eggs per clutch was not affected. This effect was significantly stronger from January to May, in contrast to the September–December period. Transcripts of the egg-laying prohormone gene and the tryptophan hydroxylase gene, which codes for the rate-limiting enzyme in serotonin synthesis, were significantly higher in the central nervous system of snails that rested in clean water for two hours after intense crawling. Additionally, the neurons of the left (but not the right) caudo-dorsal cluster (CDC), which produce the ovulation hormone and play a key role in oviposition, responded to stimulation with a higher number of spikes, although there were no differences in their resting membrane potentials. We speculate that the left–right asymmetry of the response was due to the asymmetric (right) location of the male reproductive neurons having an antagonistic influence on the female hormonal system in the hermaphrodite mollusc. Serotonin, which is known to enhance oviposition in L. stagnalis, had no direct effect on the membrane potential or electrical activity of CDC neurons. Our data suggest that (i) two-hour crawling in shallow water enhances oviposition in L. stagnalis, (ii) the effect depends on the season, and (iii) the underlying mechanisms may include increased excitability of the CDC neurons and increased expression of the egg-laying prohormone gene.
HIV-1 Transcriptional Activator Tat Inhibits IL2 Expression by Preventing the Presence of Pol II on the IL2 Promoter
Authors: Anastasopoulou Spyridoula , Georgakopoulos Tassos , Mouzaki Athanasia
Published: May 2023

HIV-1 infection leads to a gradual loss of T helper cells, chronic immune activation, and eventual immune system breakdown. HIV-1 causes deregulation of the expression of IL-2, a cytokine important for T helper cell growth and survival, which is downregulated in HIV-1 patients. The present study addresses the regulation of IL2 expression via HIV-1 Tat transcriptional activator. We used J-LAT cells, a T cell line that serves as a latency model for studies of HIV-1 expression in T cells, and as controls a T cell line lacking HIV-1 elements and a T cell line with a stably integrated copy of the HIV-1-LTR promoter. We show that endogenously expressed Tat inhibits IL2 transcription in J-Lat cells via its presence in the ARRE-1/2 elements of the IL2 promoter and that the inhibition of IL2 expression is mediated by Tat inhibiting Pol II activity at the IL2 promoter, which is mediated by preventing the presence of Pol II at the ARRE-1/2 elements. Overall, Tat is present at the IL2 promoter, apart from its cognate HIV-1 LTR target. This supports our current knowledge of how HIV-1 affects the host transcriptional machinery and reflects the potential of Tat to disrupt transcriptional regulation of host genes to manipulate cell responses.
Circulating Serum VEGF, IGF-1 and MMP-9 and Expression of Their Genes as Potential Prognostic Markers of Recovery in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation—A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Włodarczyk Lidia , Cichoń Natalia , Karbownik Michał Seweryn , Saso Luciano , Saluk Joanna , Miller Elżbieta
Published: May 2023

The key period in post-stroke recovery is the first three months due to the high activity of spontaneous and therapeutic-induced processes related to neuroplasticity, angiogenesis and reperfusion. Therefore, the present study examines the expression of VEGF, IGF-1 and MMP-9 proteins and their genes to identify biomarkers that can prognose brain repair ability and thus estimate the outcome of stroke. It also identifies possible associations with clinical scales, including cognitive assessment and depression scales. The study group comprised 32 patients with moderate ischemic stroke severity, three to four weeks after incident. The results obtained after three-week hospitalization indicate a statistically significant change in clinical parameter estimations, as well as in MMP9 and VEGF protein and mRNA expression, over the rehabilitation process. Our findings indicate that combined MMP9 protein and mRNA expression might be a useful biomarker for cognitive improvement in post-stroke patients, demonstrating 87% sensitivity and 71% specificity (p < 0.0001).
Embedding Play to Enrich Physical Therapy
Authors: Fiss Alyssa LaForme , Håkstad Ragnhild Barclay , Looper Julia , Pereira Silvana Alves , Sargent Barbara , Silveira Jessica , Willett Sandra , Dusing Stacey C.
Published: May 2023

Play is an active process by which an individual is intrinsically motivated to explore the self, the environment, and/or interactions with another person. For infants and toddlers, engaging in play is essential to support development across multiple domains. Infants and toddlers with or at risk of motor delays may demonstrate differences in play or challenges with engaging in play activities compared to typically developing peers. Pediatric physical therapists often use play as a modality to engage children in therapeutic assessment and interventions. Careful consideration of the design and use of physical therapy that embeds play is needed. Following a 3-day consensus conference and review of the literature, we propose physical therapy that embeds play should consider three components; the child, the environment, and the family. First, engage the child by respecting the child’s behavioral state and following the child’s lead during play, respect the child’s autonomous play initiatives and engagements, use activities across developmental domains, and adapt to the individual child’s needs. Second, structure the environment including the toy selection to support using independent movements as a means to engage in play. Allow the child to initiate and sustain play activities. Third, engage families in play by respecting individual family cultures related to play, while also providing information on the value of play as a tool for learning. Partner with families to design an individualized physical therapy routine that scaffolds or advances play using newly emerging motor skills.
Exploring the Integration of Architectural Design and Advanced Structural Analysis for Steel–Glass Structures: A Comparative Study of Different Case Scenarios
Authors: Tahmasebinia Faham , Jiang Shaoxiong , Shirowzhan Sara , Mann Lewis , Sepasgozar Samad M. E.
Published: May 2023

It is well known that finite element analysis (FEA) is a powerful tool when it comes to the design and analysis of complex structures for various load combinations, including light steel curve members. This abstract provides an overview of the FEA simulation process for designing such members (cure members), which involves constructing a 3D model, discretising the member into small elements, assigning material properties, defining boundary conditions, conducting the simulation, analysing the results, and making any necessary modifications to the design. FEA simulations can provide valuable insights into the behaviour of light steel curved members under different load combinations. This enables designers to optimise designs for strength, safety, and cost-effectiveness. This article proposes using two commercial 3D software programs, Rhino 7 and Strand7, to complete the FEA simulation of light steel curved members. The 3D model is created in Rhino 7, and the individual elements are discretised into more minor elements using Strand7 for assigning material properties, defining boundary conditions, running simulations, and analysing the results. The paper presents five case studies of steel–glass façades and applies the proposed methodology to each. Examples include Phoenix International Media Center in Beijing, Kazakhstan Pavilion and Science Museum in Astana, Moynihan Train Hall in New York City, Chadstone Shopping Centre in Melbourne, and the central light rail station in The Hague.
Molecular Targeted Therapies in Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Recent Advances and Future Challenges
Authors: Sorrentino Carlo , Di Carlo Emma
Published: May 2023

Prostate cancer is the most frequent malignant tumor in men, and, despite the great improvements in survival in patients with localized cancer, the prognosis for metastatic disease remains poor. Novel molecular targeted therapies, which block specific molecules or signaling pathways in tumor cells or in their microenvironment, have shown encouraging results in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Among these therapeutic approaches, prostate-specific membrane antigen-targeted radionuclide therapies and DNA repair inhibitors represent the most promising ones, with some therapeutic protocols already approved by the FDA, whereas therapies targeting tumor neovascularization and immune checkpoint inhibitors have not yet demonstrated clear clinical benefits. In this review, the most relevant studies and clinical trials on this topic are illustrated and discussed, together with future research directions and challenges.
Multiple Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding in Large Biomolecules: DFT Calculations and Deuterium Isotope Effects on 13C Chemical Shifts as a Tool in Structural Studies
Authors: Hansen Poul Erik , Kamounah Fadhil S.
Published: May 2023

Large biomolecules often have multiple intramolecular hydrogen bonds. In the cases where these interact, it requires special tools to disentangle the patterns. Such a tool could be deuterium isotope effects on chemical shifts. The use of theoretical calculations is an indispensable tool in such studies. The present paper illustrates how DFT calculations of chemical shifts and deuterium isotope effects on chemical shifts in combination with measurements of these effects can establish the complex intramolecular hydrogen bond patterns of rifampicin as an example) The structures were calculated using DFT theoretical calculations, performed with the Gaussian 16 software. The geometries were optimized using the B3LYP functional and the Pople basis set 6-31G(d) and the solvent (DMSO) was taken into account in the PCM approach. Besides the 6-31G(d) basis set, the 6-31 G(d,p) and the 6-3111G(d,p) basis sets were also tested. The nuclear shieldings were calculated using the GIAO approach. Deuteriation was simulated by shortening the X-H bond lengths by 0.01 Å.
Machine Learning Detects Intraventricular Haemorrhage in Extremely Preterm Infants
Authors: Ashoori Minoo , O’Toole John M. , O’Halloran Ken D. , Naulaers Gunnar , Thewissen Liesbeth , Miletin Jan , Cheung Po-Yin , EL-Khuffash Afif , Van Laere David , Straňák Zbyněk , Dempsey Eugene M. , McDonald Fiona B.
Published: May 2023

Objective: To test the potential utility of applying machine learning methods to regional cerebral (rcSO2) and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) signals to detect brain injury in extremely preterm infants. Study design: A subset of infants enrolled in the Management of Hypotension in Preterm infants (HIP) trial were analysed (n = 46). All eligible infants were <28 weeks’ gestational age and had continuous rcSO2 measurements performed over the first 72 h and cranial ultrasounds performed during the first week after birth. SpO2 data were available for 32 infants. The rcSO2 and SpO2 signals were preprocessed, and prolonged relative desaturations (PRDs; data-driven desaturation in the 2-to-15-min range) were extracted. Numerous quantitative features were extracted from the biosignals before and after the exclusion of the PRDs within the signals. PRDs were also evaluated as a stand-alone feature. A machine learning model was used to detect brain injury (intraventricular haemorrhage-IVH grade II–IV) using a leave-one-out cross-validation approach. Results: The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for the PRD rcSO2 was 0.846 (95% CI: 0.720–0.948), outperforming the rcSO2 threshold approach (AUC 0.593 95% CI 0.399–0.775). Neither the clinical model nor any of the SpO2 models were significantly associated with brain injury. Conclusion: There was a significant association between the data-driven definition of PRDs in rcSO2 and brain injury. Automated analysis of PRDs of the cerebral NIRS signal in extremely preterm infants may aid in better prediction of IVH compared with a threshold-based approach. Further investigation of the definition of the extracted PRDs and an understanding of the physiology underlying these events are required.
Using Escape Rooms as Evaluation Tool in Active Learning Contexts
Authors: Roig Pedro Juan , Alcaraz Salvador , Gilly Katja , Bernad Cristina , Juiz Carlos
Published: May 2023

The adoption of the active learning paradigm presents a series of challenges and uncertainties. However, its adoption may result in better academic results and a more engaging attitude towards learning. In this sense, this paper presents a case scenario in which such a change of paradigm has been deployed, where escape rooms have been introduced as an assessment tool in an active learning context. The way to move through those escape rooms is by taking a series of questionnaires based on the knowledge acquired, such that failing a test keeps the group in the same position and passing it makes them move according to the grades obtained. Surveys and comments offered by students show they were more motivated and engaged after this task, and an improvement in academic performance has been detected.
Academic Success through Engagement and Trust Fostered by Professor Leadership Style
Authors: Kim Minseong , Albers Nancy D. , Knotts Tami L.
Published: May 2023

This study focused on professor leadership styles and investigated the impacts of various leadership characteristics on student academic performance as well as students’ perceptions of class engagement and trust toward a professor. Using multiple leaderships styles to estimate a model of the relationship between faculty leadership styles and student outcomes provides for a broader view compared to previous research. The empirical results indicated that student perception of class engagement was significantly influenced by a professor’s emotional leadership, Pygmalion leadership, and charismatic leadership. Further, student perception of trust toward a professor was significantly affected by the professor’s transformational leadership, Pygmalion leadership, and charismatic leadership. Lastly, student academic performance was significantly impacted by class engagement. This research provides practical applications for enhancing student academic performance with the adoption of relevant leadership styles in higher education classes.