bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Sensor Based on β-cyclodextrin Functionalized Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes and Fe3O4 Nanoparticles for Rutin Detection
Authors: Zhao Wen-Jun , Xiao Bao-Lin , Song Xin-Yan , Meng Xin , Ma Xin-Xin , Li Yang-Yang , Hong Jun , Moosavi-Movahedi Ali Akbar
Published: March 2022

A functionalized nanocomposites composed of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4) and β-cyclodextrin (CD) was prepared. The MWCNTs-CD-Fe3O4 modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) displayed good electrochemical response towards rutin (Ru). The detection linear range and the detection limit of the electrochemical sensor for Ru were 0.02–10 μM and 16.4 nM, respectively. The results of actual sample detection were consistent with those of ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). The modified materials were also analyzed by UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis)，transmission electrode microscope (TEM), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), respectively. The prepared nanocomposites integrate the excellent electric conductivity and electrocatalytic activity of MWCNTs and Fe3O4, as well as the disperse ability of CD, and may play a synergistic role in the electrochemical response of the modified electrode towards Ru. Moreover, the prepared sensor had good anti-interference ability and potential application in the actual content detection of drugs.
Research and Implementation of Digital Media Recommendation System Based on Semantic Classification
Authors: Li Xiaoguang
Published: March 2022

In order to study the recommendation system of digital media based on semantic classification, the CF-LFMC algorithm based on semantic classification is proposed. Firstly, the traditional algorithm is analyzed. Aiming at some problems existing in the traditional algorithm, a clustering algorithm model based on term meaning and collaborative filtering algorithm is designed by combining the collaborative filtering algorithm and project-based clustering algorithm. Before analyzing sparse data, the cold start and timeliness of the traditional algorithm are improved. Secondly, the performance comparison of three cosine similarity calculation methods of experimental IBCF algorithm, the performance comparison between CF-LFMC algorithm and IBCF algorithm, and the performance comparison between CF-LFMC algorithm and CF-LFMC algorithm without the time function is carried out. The clustering value N = 10 in the CF-LFMC algorithm is taken as the experimental result; MAE values of both algorithms decrease with the increase of the nearest neighbor number k. When the number of nearest neighbors is small, MAE values of the two algorithms are close to each other. As the number of nearest neighbors increases, the accuracy of the algorithm does not improve significantly, and the calculation cost of the algorithm will increase with the increase of the number of nearest neighbors, so the number of nearest neighbors between 20 and 30 is more appropriate. CF-LFMC shows better accuracy, and the CF-LFMC algorithm improved by the time function has improved the accuracy, which is better than the traditional algorithm in accuracy.
Impact of High-Flux Hemodialysis on Chronic Inflammation, Antioxidant Capacity, Body Temperature, and Immune Function in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Li Sufang , Li Hongwei , Wang Jun , Yin Lianliang
Published: March 2022

In order to probe into the impact of high-flux dialysis and hemodiafiltration on patients with chronic rental failure, this paper selects in total 92 cases with chronic renal failure receiving hemodialysis from November 2018 to July 2021, allocating them into two groups based on the random table, each with 46 cases. The control group received hemodiafiltration, the observation group is given high-flux hemodialysis, and we compared serum inflammatory factor level and antioxidant factor level before and after treatment, as well as cellular immune factor level (CD3+, CD4+) and humoral immune factor level (IgE) before and after treatment in the two groups; the renal function, serum total calcium ion level, and serum phosphorus ion level in the two groups were compared before and after treatment, as well as the proportion of metabolic abnormalities in calcium and phosphorus ion levels during treatment; the trend of changes in axillary temperature during treatment in the two groups is analyzed. After treatment, serum inflammatory factor level (hs-CRP & TNF-α) is lower than that in the control group (

P

 < 0.05), antioxidant factor level (MDA) is lower than that in the control group (

P

 < 0.05), and SOD level is higher than that in the control group (

P

 < 05). After treatment CD3+ and CD4+ levels in the observation group are higher than those in the control group (

P

 < 0.05). For patients with chronic renal failure, high-flux hemodialysis is available to better reduce inflammatory response, improve antioxidant and immune capacity in the body, and help maintain calcium and phosphorus metabolic balance.
Mathematical Problems in Engineering Research on Composite Fault Separation of Rolling Bearing Based on Functional Mixing Decoupling Model
Authors: Wang Haitao , Guo Yaqi , Shi Lichen , Pu Lindong , Nie Yangwen , Wu Wen
Published: March 2022

In the process of extracting the characteristic frequency of the fault signal of the rolling bearing in the mechanical system, the signal transmission paths between the fault points inside the bearing and the sensor are diversified, which will produce compound faults of different forms and combinations. These composite faults will lead to a series of serious consequences such as distortion and aliasing of the fault characteristic spectrum. In order to solve these problems, this paper proposes a composite fault feature separation method for rolling bearing based on the mixed function decoupling model. Firstly, the functional series model of the fault system is established, and some kernel functions of functional series are obtained. Secondly, the coupling frequency relationship is established and the recursive search algorithm of frequency energy is applied to decouple the compound fault coupling frequency into a single fault frequency feature set. Finally, the threshold method of fault characteristic frequency energy entropy is utilized to optimize the single fault frequency feature set and identify the true and false features, so as to identify each characteristic frequency point of the composite fault. Experimental results show that, under the condition of low SNR, the proposed method can decouple no more than three typical composite fault signals without depending on the signal filter.
Lateral Quadratus Lumborum Block versus Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Laparoscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Fargaly Omar Sayed , Boules Maged Labib , Hamed Mohamed Ahmed , Aleem Abbas Mohammed Abdel , Shawky Mohammed Ahmed
Published: March 2022

Background. After laparoscopic abdominal surgery, we aim to evaluate the analgesic efficiency of US-directed bilateral transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) and quadratus lumborum block (QLB). Methods. 50 patients aged 18–60 years listed for elective laparoscopic abdomen operation were registered in this study. Cases were randomly allocated into two similar groups: TAPB and QLB groups. The first outcome was the growing morphine consumption on the 1st day postoperatively. The second outcome involved VAS score, first analgesic necessities, and any postoperative complications. Statistical analysis was done with the 2-sample t-test, and Mann–Whitney U testing was utilized to compare medians for skewed end points. Qualitative data were introduced as numbers and percentages, and chi-squared testing was utilized to determine the significance. Results. The median cumulative morphine consumptions on the 1st day were high significantly in the TAPB group than in the QLB group (6 mg [6, 9] vs. 3 mg [3, 6],

p

value

≤
0.0001

]). The QLB group showed an increase in the median of the time to the first analgesic request in comparison with the TAPB group (17 hours [12, 24] vs. 8 hours [6, 24],

p
≤
0.001

). In addition, on the 1st day, the mean VAS scoring at rest was lower in the QLB group. Conclusion. In comparison to the TAPB, the QL block delivers more successful pain relief, has an extended period of analgesic actions, extends interval to the 1st analgesic necessity, is accompanied with lesser morphine consumptions, and may be utilized in multimodal analgesia and opioid-sparing regimens after that laparoscopic operation. This trial is registered with NCT04553991.
Hippocampal Atrophy Subtypes of Alzheimer’s Disease Using Automatic MRI in a Memory Clinic Cohort: Clinical Implications
Authors: Persson Karin , Edwin Trine H. , Knapskog Anne-Brita , Tangen Gro G. , Selbæk Geir , Engedal Knut
Published: March 2022

Introduction: One pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is atrophy of medial temporal brain regions that can be visualized on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but not all patients will have atrophy. The aim was to use MRI to categorize patients according to their hippocampal atrophy status and to present prevalence of the subtypes, difference in clinical symptomatology and progression, and factors associated with hippocampal subtypes. Methods: We included 215 patients with AD who had been assessed with the clinically available MRI software NeuroQuant (NQ; CorTechs labs/University of California, San Diego, CA, USA). NQ measures the hippocampus volume and calculates a normative percentile. Atrophy was regarded to be present if the percentile was ≤5. Demographics, cognitive measurements, AD phenotypes, apolipoprotein E status, and results from cerebrospinal fluid and amyloid positron emission tomography analyses were included as explanatory variables of the hippocampal subtypes. Results: Of all, 60% had no hippocampal atrophy. These patients were younger and less cognitively impaired concerning global measures, memory function, and abstraction but impaired concerning executive, visuospatial, and semantic fluency, and more of them had nonamnestic AD, compared to those with hippocampal atrophy. No difference in progression rate was observed between the two groups. In mild cognitive impairment patients, amyloid pathology was associated with the no hippocampal atrophy group. Conclusion: The results have clinical implications. Clinicians should be aware of the large proportion of AD patients presenting without atrophy of the hippocampus as measured with this clinical MRI method in the diagnostic set up and that nonamnestic phenotypes are more common in this group as compared to those with atrophy. Furthermore, the findings are relevant in clinical trials.
Abemaciclib in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease and Advanced Estrogen Receptor-Positive, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Negative Breast Cancer: A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Gebbia Vittorio
Published: March 2022

Cyclin4/6-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs) plus hormonotherapy currently represent the standard golden treatment for patients with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+), human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-negative (her-2−) advanced breast carcinoma. Among CDKIs, abemaciclib is the most active. No data on the use of abemaciclib in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) exist in the medical literature. Two women with ER+, her-2− metastatic breast cancer received standard hormonal therapy plus abemaciclib 100 mg b.i.d. under strict monitoring for toxicity. Although ESRD exposes patients to a higher risk of toxicity from antineoplastic agents, no unexpected or severe toxicity was recorded in both patients after 9 and 12 months of therapy. In 1 patient, grade 2 diarrhea started after 7 days of therapy and disappeared or was significantly reduced after using loperamide and dietary modifications. Both patients complained of grade 1 asthenia. Hematological parameters were in line with expected toxicity. No cardiovascular or hepatic side effects were observed. This report of two women with metastatic breast cancer suggests the potentially safe use of abemaciclib in ESRD, which should be confirmed in more extensive real-life studies.
Requirement of Na+/H+ Exchanger NHE1 for Vasopressin-Induced Osteogenic Signaling and Calcification in Human Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Zhu Xuexue , Ma Ke , Zhou Kuo , Pan Xia , Liu Jibin , Nürnberg Bernd , Alesutan Ioana , Völkl Jakob , Lang Florian
Published: March 2022

Background/Aims: Vasopressin is a powerful stimulator of vascular calcification, augmenting osteogenic signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) including upregulation of transcription factors such as core-binding factor α-1 (CBFA1), msh homeobox 2 (MSX2), and SRY-Box 9 (SOX9), as well as of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (ALPL). Vasopressin-induced osteogenic signaling and calcification require the serum- and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase 1 (SGK1). Known effects of SGK1 include upregulation of Na+/H+ exchanger 1 (NHE1). NHE1 further participates in the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). NHE1 has been shown to participate in the orchestration of bone mineralization. The present study, thus, explored whether vasopressin modifies NHE1 expression and ROS generation, as well as whether pharmacological inhibition of NHE1 disrupts vasopressin-induced osteogenic signaling and calcification in VSMCs. Methods: Human aortic smooth muscle cells (HAoSMCs) were treated with vasopressin in the absence or presence of SGK1 silencing, SGK1 inhibitor GSK-650394, and NHE1 blocker cariporide. Transcript levels were determined by using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, protein abundance by Western blotting, ROS generation with 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate fluorescence, and ALP activity and calcium content by using colorimetric assays. Results: Vasopressin significantly enhanced the NHE1 transcript and protein levels in HAoSMCs, effects significantly blunted by SGK1 inhibition with GSK-650394 or SGK1 silencing. Vasopressin increased ROS accumulation, an effect significantly blocked by the NHE1 inhibitor cariporide. Vasopressin further significantly increased osteogenic markers CBFA1, MSX2, SOX9, and ALPL transcript levels, as well as ALP activity and calcium content in HAoSMCs, all effects significantly blunted by SGK1 silencing or in the presence of GSK-650394 or cariporide. Conclusion: Vasopressin stimulates NHE1 expression and ROS generation, an effect dependent on SGK1 and required for vasopressin-induced stimulation of osteogenic signaling and calcification of VSMCs.
Incidence, Prevalence, and Real-World Treatment Patterns in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Results from a Population-Representative German Claims Data Analysis
Authors: Saußele Susanne , Kohlbrenner Katharina , Vogelmann Tobias , Schubert Tino
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Real-world data on usage of 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) are scarce. This study therefore aimed to analyze the use of different TKIs used in 1st- and 2nd-line treatment and the frequency of TKI switches in CML. Methods: This observational study was based on the InGef research database, an anonymized representative claims dataset in Germany (n = 4 million). An incidence and prevalence patient CML cohort was followed for 5 and 3 years. Analyses regarding incidence, prevalence, and therapy distribution were performed descriptively. Results: 151 patients were included in the incidence and 636 patients in the prevalence cohort. This resulted in an incidence of 1.8 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.34–2.20) and a prevalence of 14.9 (95% CI: 13.70–16.03) per 100,000 inhabitants. For the incidence cohort, data on 1st-line therapy were available for 124 patients and distributed across imatinib (N = 52), nilotinib (N = 44), dasatinib (N = 12), chemotherapies as hydroxycarbamide (N = 11), and ponatinib/bosutinib (N = 5). Twenty-six percent of patients switched TKI therapy at least once in 3 years. In the prevalence cohort, 423 patients (66.5%) had claims on existing or newly emerged cardiovascular diseases (CDs). No significant differences (p = 0.32) between TKIs in patients with CD were found. Discussion: Every fourth patient switched TKI therapy within the first 3 years after treatment initiation. Switches were more likely when hints of disease progression or intolerability were observable in the database.
The genus Neoseiulus Hughes (Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae) in the Espinhaço Range, a great reservoir of biodiversity in Brazil
Authors: FERRAGUT FRANCISCO , NAVIA DENISE
Published: March 2022

Several surveys were conducted between 2010 and 2012 in the Brazilian range Serra do Espinhaço, a highly biodiverse region extending more than 1000 km in the states of Bahia and Minas Gerais. We report in this paper eight species of the genus Neoseiulus Hughes collected on natural, non-cultivated, vegetation. Two of these species are described, illustrated and proposed as new taxa, N. cipoensis sp. nov. and N. diamantinus sp. nov. New morphological information as well as host-plants and geographical distribution are provided for six additional species, N. benjamini (Schicha), N. californicus (McGregor), N. goiano Demite, Cavalcante & Lofego, N. idaeus Denmark & Muma, N. melinis Lofego & Moraes, and N. tunus (De Leon).
Additions to the morphology of the Phyllophoridae and the Sclerodactylidae. I. Type species of Phyllophorella, Selenkiella, Cladolella and Clarkiella, with the description a new species of Thorsonia (Holothuroidea: Dendrochirotida)
Authors: MARTINS LUCIANA , TAVARES MARCOS
Published: March 2022

The phyllophorids Phyllophorella robusta, Selenkiella siamense and Cladolella virgo, as well as the sclerodactylid Clarkiella discoveryi, are the type species of their respective genera, all described by Heding & Panning (1954) and each known only from a single specimen, were revisited in order to reassess their morphology by means of optical and electron microscopy, and micro-computed tomography. Additionally, a new species of phyllophorid is described, the fourth of the genus Thorsonia.
Performance Evaluation of the Newly Operational NDBC 2.1-m Hull
Authors: Hall Candice , Jensen Robert E. , Wang David W.
Published: March 2022

The importance of quantifying the accuracy in wave measurements is critical to not only understand the complexities of wind-generated waves, but imperative for the interpretation of implied accuracy of the prediction systems that use these data for verification and validation. As wave measurement systems have unique collection and processing attributes that result in large accuracy ranges, this work quantifies bias that may be introduced into wave models from the newly operational NOAA National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) 2.1-m hull. Data quality consistency between the legacy NDBC 3-m aluminum hulls and the new 2.1-m hull is compared to a relative reference, and provides a standardized methodology and graphical representation template for future intrameasurement evaluations. Statistical analyses and wave spectral comparisons confirm that the wave measurements reported from the NDBC 2.1-m hulls show an increased accuracy from previously collected NDBC 3-m hull wave data for significant wave height and average wave period, while retaining consistent accuracy for directional results, purporting that hull size does not impact NDBC directional data estimates. Spectrally, the NDBC 2.1-m hulls show an improved signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for increase in energy retention in the lower-frequency spectral range, with an improved high-frequency spectral accuracy above 0.25 Hz within the short seas and wind chop wave component regions. These improvements in both NDBC bulk and spectral data accuracy provide confidence for the wave community’s use of NDBC wave data to drive wave model technologies, improvements, and validations.
Serum D-dimer level as a predictor of neurological functional prognosis in cases of head injuries caused by road traffic accidents
Authors: Asami Masahiro , Nakahara Shinji , Miyake Yasufumi , Kanda Jun , Onuki Takahiro , Matsuno Akira , Sakamoto Tetsuya
Published: March 2022

Background

The number of traffic fatalities is declining in Japan; however, a large proportion of head injuries are still attributable to traffic accidents. Severe head trauma may cause progressive and devastating coagulopathy owing to exacerbated coagulation and fibrinolysis, which results in massive bleeding and poor patient outcomes. D-dimer is a fibrinolytic marker, which remarkably increases in severe coagulopathy due to the exacerbated fibrinolytic system. Because the degree of coagulopathy is associated with patient outcomes, the D-dimer level is a useful prognostic predictor in patients with head trauma. However, the usefulness of D-dimer in cases of head trauma caused by road traffic accidents remains inadequately explored. In this study, we investigated the relationship between D-dimer levels and outcomes in head injuries caused by traffic accidents.

Methods

We extracted data on traffic injuries from Japan Neuro-Trauma Data Bank Project 2015, which is a prospective multicenter registry of head injuries. The analysis included 335 individuals with no missing data. The outcome variable was the score of the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS), a neurological outcome index. The participants were categorized into the favorable outcome (GOS score ≥ 4) and poor outcome (GOS score ≤ 3) groups. The serum D-dimer levels at the time of admission were divided into four categories at the quartiles, and the reference category was less than the first quartile (< 17.4 µg/mL). We performed a logistic regression analysis with GOS as the dependent variable and D-dimer as a predictor and performed a multivariate analysis that was adjusted for 10 physiological parameters.

Results

In the univariate analysis, all groups with serum D-dimer values ≥ 17.4 μg/dL showed significantly poorer outcomes than those of the reference group. In the multivariate analysis, after adjusting for other factors, D-dimer levels ≥ 89.3 μg/dL were an independent predictor of poor outcome.

Conclusion

After adjusting for physiological parameters, high serum D-dimer levels can be an independent factor for predicting neurological prognosis in head trauma caused by road traffic accidents.
The association between hypertension and the risk of gallstone disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Yalan , Sun Li , Wang Xin , Chen Zongtao
Published: March 2022

Background

To explore the association between hypertension and the risk of gallstone disease.

Methods

We collected the data about the subjects receiving physical examination. Gallstone disease was diagnosed by abdominal ultrasound. Multivariable logistic regression was used to study the association between blood pressure and the risk of gallstone disease. SPSS version 23.0 was used for statistical analysis, and two-tailed P < 0.05 was defined as statistically significant.

Results

A total of 318,403 people were included in the study and 171,276 (53.8%) of them were men and 147,127 (46.2%) were women. Among them, 27,463 (8.6%) were diagnosed with gallstone disease on ultrasound examination, with 12,452 (3.9%) cases of gallstones and 15,017 (4.7%) cases of cholecystectomy. Multivariable logistic regression showed that hypertension was significantly associated with the risk of gallstone disease (OR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.10; P = 0.03) and gallstones (OR = 1.12; 95% CI: 1.06–1.19; P < 0.01) and the association between hypertension and gallstone disease was stronger in women than in men. However, hypertension was not significantly correlated with cholecystectomy (OR = 0.99; 95% CI: 0.95–1.04; P = 0.85). Additionally, results showed that with the severity of hypertension increased, the risk of gallstone disease was also marked elevated (P for trend < 0.001).

Conclusions

The gallstone disease was prevalent and hypertension is significantly associated with the gallstone disease risk with a significant dose–response association. This study showed that the association between hypertension and cholecystectomy was not statistically significant, maybe hypertension correlated with gallstones but not with symptomatic gallstone disease which would require cholecystectomy.
Corticosteroid suppresses urea-cycle-related gene expressions in ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency
Authors: Imoto Koji , Tanaka Masatake , Goya Takeshi , Aoyagi Tomomi , Takahashi Motoi , Kurokawa Miho , Tashiro Shigeki , Kato Masaki , Kohjima Motoyuki , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: March 2022

Background

Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) is most common among urea cycle disorders (UCDs), defined by defects in enzymes associated with ureagenesis. Corticosteroid administration to UCD patients, including OTCD patients, is suggested to be avoided, as it may induce life-threatening hyperammonemia. The mechanism has been considered nitrogen overload due to the catabolic effect of corticosteroids; however, the pathophysiological process is unclear.

Methods

To elucidate the mechanism of hyperammonemia induced by corticosteroid administration in OTCD patients, we analyzed a mouse model by administering corticosteroids to OTCspf−ash mice deficient in the OTC gene. Dexamethasone (DEX; 20 mg/kg) was administered to the OTCspf−ash and wild-type (WT) mice at 0 and 24 h, and the serum ammonia concentrations, the levels of the hepatic metabolites, and the gene expressions related with ammonia metabolism in the livers and muscles were analyzed.

Results

The ammonia levels in Otcspf−ash mice that were administered DEX tended to increase at 24 h and increased significantly at 48 h. The metabolomic analysis showed that the levels of citrulline, arginine, and ornithine did not differ significantly between Otcspf−ash mice that were administered DEX and normal saline; however, the level of aspartate was increased drastically in Otcspf−ash mice owing to DEX administration (P < 0.01). Among the enzymes associated with the urea cycle, mRNA expressions of carbamoyl-phosphate synthase 1, ornithine transcarbamylase, arginosuccinate synthase 1, and arginosuccinate lyase in the livers were significantly downregulated by DEX administration in both the Otcspf−ash and WT mice (P < 0.01). Among the enzymes associated with catabolism, mRNA expression of Muscle RING-finger protein-1 in the muscles was significantly upregulated in the muscles of WT mice by DEX administration (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

We elucidated that corticosteroid administration induced hyperammonemia in Otcspf−ash mice by not only muscle catabolism but also suppressing urea-cycle-related gene expressions. Since the urea cycle intermediate amino acids, such as arginine, might not be effective because of the suppressed expression of urea-cycle-related genes by corticosteroid administration, we should consider an early intervention by renal replacement therapy in cases of UCD patients induced by corticosteroids to avoid brain injuries or fatal outcomes.
Effects of supportive counseling using a positive psychology approach on coping patterns among pregnant women with nausea and vomiting
Authors: Abbasi Mina , Maleki Azam , Ebrahimi Loghman , Molaei Behnaz
Published: March 2022

Background

Pregnancy nausea and vomiting (NVP) are associated with a wide range of physical and mental changes in the mothers and could affect their adaptation to pregnancy. There is a gap of knowledge regarding the effectiveness of a positive psychology approach counselling on improving coping patterns in women with NVP.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the effect of supportive counselling with a positive psychology approach on improving coping patterns in women with NVP.

Method

The current study was a randomized controlled trial on 60 pregnant women who experienced nausea and vomiting in Zanjan a province in the northwest of Iran, 2020–2021. Using four-block random sampling, eligible women were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. According to the Seligman protocol, the intervention group received supportive counselling in six sessions of 45 min3 times a week. The revised prenatal coping inventory (Nu PCI) was used to collect data and analyzed using Chi-square, repeated measures ANOVA, and MANOVA at a 95% confidence level.

Results

In the counseling group, the mean (SD) of a total score of coping with pregnancy before the intervention was 6.11 (1.31) which increased to 8.40 (1.03) in 4 weeks after the intervention. Based on the MANOVA test with adjusting the number of pregnancies, the mean total score of coping with pregnancy was statistically significant 4 weeks after the intervention compared with the control group (Adjusted mean difference (AMD) = -1.84, CI95% -2.36, -1.32, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The use of positive psychology in supportive counselling improved the coping of mothers suffering from nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. It is recommended that this approach be incorporated into prenatal care to promote the health of pregnant women.

Trial registration

The study was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials website under the code IRCT20150731023423N17.

Registration date: 2020–10-31, Expected recruitment start date: 2020–11-01.

IRCT Id: IRCT20150731023423N17.
Clinical practitioners’ experiences of psychological treatment for autistic children and adolescents with school attendance problems: a qualitative study
Authors: Melin Johanna , Jansson-Fröjmark Markus , Olsson Nora Choque
Published: March 2022

Background

School attendance problems (SAPs) are common among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Currently, there is a lack of guidelines for treatment or interventions aimed at this group.

Method

Twelve clinical practitioners were interviewed via in-depth interviews using a semi-structured question guide. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and initially independently coded by two coders. The interviews were analyzed according to thematic analysis.

Results

The majority of the clinicians reported that it was common that children and adolescents with ASD at CAP had prolonged SAPs. A total of four themes and 22 sub-themes were identified in the analysis: the treatment situation; treatment goals at CAP; treatment interventions; and desired development. Insufficient adaptations in response to core impairment of ASD and lack of support in their daily life could be factors to the development of SAPs. Prolonged social isolation in combination with severe psychiatric comorbidities was reported as a treatment barrier. Also, insufficient collaboration between mental health care services, school and social services obstructed the return to school for this group of students. Favorable factors for positive treatment outcome were: early detection, accurate assessment and coordination between mental health care and schools and environmental adaptation at school as well as at home, parent support and sometimes change of school. Concerning useful therapeutic techniques, exposure from cognitive-behavioral treatment was reported.

Conclusion

Children and adolescents with ASD with limited societal support tend to develop SAPs. Important factors that impact the outcome of treatment were the length of the absence from school and the severity of psychiatric comorbidities. Tailored and adapted interventions at school, parent support and mental health care are needed. Research about assessment and treatment for children and adolescents with ASD and SAPs is needed.
Attitudes of German GP trainees regarding add-on training programs differ if in office or hospital training phase
Authors: Wild DMG , Linden K. , Welchowski T. , Dehnen D. , Weltermann B.
Published: March 2022

Background

Many residents are exposed to negative attitudes towards primary care during hospital training. Attractive add-on training programs exist, but it is unclear whether these need to be tailored to the location of training (hospital vs. office). We report differences in learner attitudes from a large German add-on training program.

Methods

Between 2017 and 2020, a regional network offered 31 quarterly seminars to primary care residents. The seminars addressed medical content, practice management and mentoring. We elicited participants’ satisfaction, perceived topic relevance, preferences for future seminars, work situation and employer support for participation. A proportionate odds model was used to assess predictors of ratings; results were stratified by training location (hospital vs. office).

Results

Most respondents were female (380/575 = 70.0%), aged between 26 and 40 (80.8%), and had on average 3.54 ± 1.64 years of residency training. The majority (83.8%) was working in an office and full-time (63.0%). Overall evaluations were positive (very satisfactory 72.1%). Comparing residents in the hospital phase vs. the office phase, overall seminar ratings of the perceived impact on the motivation for primary care did not differ (p = 0.73 vs. 0.18, respectively). Hospital-based residents were less likely to rate the topics as relevant (39.4% vs. 55.7%, p = 0.02) and had different preferences for future seminar topics (top 3: palliative care, emergencies and chronic care vs. billing, disease management and practice finances for hospital and office phase, respectively).

Conclusions

Keeping primary care residents motivated may require education tailored to training location. Our findings may be of interest to teachers, administrators and policymakers.
Experimenting with modifications to consent forms in comparative effectiveness research: understanding the impact of language about financial implications and key information
Authors: Niyibizi Nyiramugisha K. , Speight Candace D. , Najarro Gabriel , Mitchell Andrea R. , Sadan Ofer , Ko Yi-An , Dickert Neal W.
Published: March 2022

Background

Informed consent forms are intended to facilitate research enrollment decisions. However, the technical language in institutional templates can be unfamiliar and confusing for decision-makers. Standardized language describing financial implications of participation, namely compensation for injury and costs of care associated with participating, can be complex and could be a deterrent for potential participants. This standardized language may also be misleading in the context of comparative effectiveness trials of standard care interventions, in which costs and risk of injury associated with participating may not differ from regular medical care. In addition, the revised U.S. Common Rule contains a new requirement to present key information upfront; the impact of how this requirement is operationalized on comprehension and likelihood of enrollment for a given study is unknown.

Methods

Two online surveys assessed the impact of (1) changes to compensation for injury language (standard vs. tailored language form) and (2) changes to the key information page (using the tailored compensation language form with standard key information vs. modified key information vs. modified key information plus financial information) on both likelihood of enrollment in and understanding of a hypothetical comparative effectiveness trial.

Results

Likelihood of enrolling was not observed to be different between the standard and tailored language forms in Study 1 (73 vs. 75%; p = 0.6); however, the tailored language group had a higher frequency of understanding the compensation for injury process specific to the trial (25 vs. 51%; p < 0.0001). Modifications to the key information sheet in Study 2 did not affect likelihood of enrolling (88 vs. 85 vs. 85%; p = 0.6); however, understanding of randomization differed by form (44 vs. 59 vs. 46%; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that refining consent forms to clarify key information and tailoring compensation for injury language to the nature of the study, especially in the context of comparative effectiveness trials, may help to improve study comprehension but may not impact enrollment.
Co-cultures of Propionibacterium freudenreichii and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens cooperatively upgrade sunflower seed milk to high levels of vitamin B12 and multiple co-benefits
Authors: Tangyu Muzi , Fritz Michel , Ye Lijuan , Aragão Börner Rosa , Morin-Rivron Delphine , Campos-Giménez Esther , Bolten Christoph J. , Bogicevic Biljana , Wittmann Christoph
Published: March 2022

Background

Sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus) display an attractive source for the rapidly increasing market of plant-based human nutrition. Of particular interest are press cakes of the seeds, cheap residuals from sunflower oil manufacturing that offer attractive sustainability and economic benefits. Admittedly, sunflower seed milk, derived therefrom, suffers from limited nutritional value, undesired flavor, and the presence of indigestible sugars. Of specific relevance is the absence of vitamin B12. This vitamin is required for development and function of the central nervous system, healthy red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis, and displays the most important micronutrient for vegans to be aware of. Here we evaluated the power of microbes to enrich sunflower seed milk nutritionally as well as in flavor.

Results

Propionibacterium freudenreichii NCC 1177 showed highest vitamin B12 production in sunflower seed milk out of a range of food-grade propionibacteria. Its growth and B12 production capacity, however, were limited by a lack of accessible carbon sources and stimulants of B12 biosynthesis in the plant milk. This was overcome by co-cultivation with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens NCC 156, which supplied lactate, amino acids, and vitamin B7 for growth of NCC 1177 plus vitamins B2 and B3, potentially supporting vitamin B12 production by the Propionibacterium. After several rounds of optimization, co-fermentation of ultra-high-temperature pre-treated sunflower seed milk by the two microbes, enabled the production of 17 µg (100 g)−1 vitamin B12 within four days without any further supplementation. The fermented milk further revealed significantly enriched levels of l-lysine, the most limiting essential amino acid, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, improved protein quality and flavor, and largely eliminated indigestible sugars.

Conclusion

The fermented sunflower seed milk, obtained by using two food-grade microbes without further supplementation, displays an attractive, clean-label product with a high level of vitamin B12 and multiple co-benefits. The secret of the successfully upgraded plant milk lies in the multifunctional cooperation of the two microbes, which were combined, based on their genetic potential and metabolic signatures found in mono-culture fermentations. This design by knowledge approach appears valuable for future development of plant-based milk products.
Genomic correlates of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in Chinese lung adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Li Kang , Liu Jun , Wu Lin , Xiao Yajie , Li Jia , Du Haijian , Zhao Zhikun , Sun Chao , Zhao Yongtian , Yang Jie , Wu Dongfang , Zhao Zhuxiang , Chen Bolin
Published: March 2022

Background

Although PD-L1 expression is a crucial predictive biomarker for immunotherapy, it can be influenced by many factors.

Methods

A total of 248 Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma was retrospectively identified. Data for clinical features, gene alternations, signaling pathways and immune signatures was analyzed among negative expression group (TPS < 1%, n = 124), intermediate expression group (1% ≤ TPS < 50%, n = 93), and high expression group (TPS ≥ 50%, n = 38). Clinical outcomes among different expression groups were also evaluated from public database.

Results

Firstly, high tumor mutation burden was significantly associated with high PD-L1 expression in these Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, gene alternations including TP53, PRKDC, KMT2D, TET1 and SETD2 apparently occurred in high PD-L1 expression group. Moreover, pathway analysis showed that mutations involving in DDR pathway, TP53 pathway, cell-cycle pathway and NOTCH pathway were obviously varied among three PD-L1 expression groups. Besides, most of patients in high PD-L1 expression group from TCGA database were determined as high-grade immune subtypes (C2-C4), showing significant higher proportions of IFN-gamma, CD8+ T-cells, NK cells, NK CD56 dim cells, Th1 cells, Th2 cells (P < 0.0001). Moreover, SETD2 mutation slightly correlated with overall survival from MSKCC cohort (HR 1.92 [95%CI 0.90–4.10], P = 0.085), and the percentage of IFN-gamma was significantly higher in SETD2 mutant group than in wild-type group (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

This study illustrated in-depth genomic correlates of PD-L1 expression in Chinese lung adenocarcinoma patients and relevant immune signatures from public database, which might interpret more potential molecular mechanisms for immunotherapy in NSCLC.
Clinical significance of FBXW7 loss of function in human cancers
Authors: Fan Jingyi , Bellon Marcia , Ju Mingyi , Zhao Lin , Wei Minjie , Fu Liwu , Nicot Christophe
Published: March 2022

FBXW7 (F-Box and WD Repeat Domain Containing 7) (also referred to as FBW7 or hCDC4) is a component of the Skp1-Cdc53 / Cullin-F-box-protein complex (SCF/β-TrCP). As a member of the F-box protein family, FBXW7 serves a role in phosphorylation-dependent ubiquitination and proteasome degradation of oncoproteins that play critical role(s) in oncogenesis. FBXW7 affects many regulatory functions involved in cell survival, cell proliferation, tumor invasion, DNA damage repair, genomic instability and telomere biology. This thorough review of current literature details how FBXW7 expression and functions are regulated through multiple mechanisms and how that ultimately drives tumorigenesis in a wide array of cell types. The clinical significance of FBXW7 is highlighted by the fact that FBXW7 is frequently inactivated in human lung, colon, and hematopoietic cancers. The loss of FBXW7 can serve as an independent prognostic marker and is significantly correlated with the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapeutic agents and poorer disease outcomes. Recent evidence shows that genetic mutation of FBXW7 differentially affects the degradation of specific cellular targets resulting in a distinct and specific pattern of activation/inactivation of cell signaling pathways. The clinical significance of FBXW7 mutations in the context of tumor development, progression, and resistance to therapies as well as opportunities for targeted therapies is discussed.
Intramammary antimicrobial sales in Ireland: a 2020 descriptive update
Authors: McAloon Catherine I. , McCoy Finola , More Simon J.
Published: March 2022

Intramammary (IM) antimicrobial sales data are currently the only feasible means to gain broad insights into on-farm usage of antimicrobials (AMs) relevant to mastitis control within the Irish dairy industry. The aim of this study was to update earlier work describing sales data of intramammary antimicrobial usage in the Irish dairy industry in 2020. Previously reported data from 2013 to 2019 is included for reference and 2020 sales data is reported using similar methodology to previously published work in this area. Data on IM AMs sold in Ireland during 2013-2020 were obtained from two sources, believed to represent 99% of all sales of IM AMs in Ireland, and analyses were undertaken to evaluate patterns in IM AM sales. We report an increase in overall sales of both lactating cow (LC) and dry cow (DC) IM AMs. We observed a large increase in the use of DC IM AMs, from 0.95 to 1.13 defined course dose (DCDvet) per cow per year in 2019 and 2020 respectively, as well as evidence of ongoing usage of highest priority critically important AMs, as defined by the World Health Organization. There was also a slight increase in LC use of IM AMs, from 0.43 to 0.44 defined course dose (DCDvet) per cow per year. We believe that our results provide an accurate reflection of IM sales in Ireland in 2020. In common with any study of this type, caution is needed when interpreting national IM AM sales data, noting the potential discrepancies between AM sales and on-farm usage. Nonetheless, the sales pattern described here, most importantly the increased use of DC products and ongoing and increasing use of HP CIA products in both DC and LC therapy raise significant concerns for the Irish dairy industry. This study provides an evidence base to inform current policy discussions, particularly in the context of the new Veterinary Medicines Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2019/6), which comes into force on 28 January 2022.
Oranges or "Lemons"? Family Farming and Product Quality in the Spanish Orange Industry, 1870–1960
Authors: GARRIDO SAMUEL
Published: March 2022

In the early twentieth century California became a big exporter of some agricultural products that, until then, had only been grown on a large scale in the Mediterranean basin. As a result, exports of those products diminished or stagnated in Mediterranean countries, with important repercussions on their economies. The Spanish orange industry, however, continued to expand, despite the fact that a substantial percentage of Spanish oranges came from farms owned by (often illiterate) small peasants who, in comparison to the California growers, used a great deal of labor, small amounts of capital, and little science. This paper shows that Spanish farmers were in fact capable of growing high-quality oranges at prices that were more competitive than those in California, although instead they often preferred to satisfy the strong demand for middling fruit from Great Britain because it was a more profitable business. This, combined with a deficient use of brand names, gave the Spanish citrus industry serious reputation problems by the 1930s, from which, however, it recovered quickly.
"A Starving Belly Doesn’t Listen to Explanations": Agricultural Evangelism in Colonial Zimbabwe, 1900 to 1962
Authors: LEEDY TODD H.
Published: March 2022

Both missionaries and government policymakers in colonial Zimbabwe consciously identified agriculture as an important avenue in establishing broader paradigms of explanation. Missionary promotion of new farming practices inevitably challenged the existing spiritual landscape by insisting that rationalized individual labor could overcome powerful natural forces. This article examines various facets of the American-based Methodist Episcopal Church’s agricultural evangelism in a period of growing state intervention. Despite careful missionary attempts to manage the outcomes, individuals with their own agendas absorbed and transformed these policies. Local farmers utilized imported agricultural knowledge for their own purposes and did not conform to the experiences or expectations of American-trained agricultural missionaries. Within these mission communities, converts successfully blended new forms of worship with existing social priorities and also adapted aspects of imported farming techniques to actively create innovative strategies for negotiating life under colonial rule.
The Lives of Jessie Sampter
Authors: Imhoff Sarah
Published: March 2022

In The Lives of Jessie Sampter, Sarah Imhoff tells the story of an individual full of contradictions. Jessie Sampter (1883–1938) was best known for her Course in Zionism (1915), an American primer for understanding support of a Jewish state in Palestine. In 1919, Sampter packed a trousseau, declared herself “married to Palestine,” and immigrated there. Yet Sampter’s own life and body hardly matched typical Zionist ideals. Although she identified with Judaism, Sampter took up and experimented with spiritual practices from various religions. While Zionism celebrated the strong and healthy body, she spoke of herself as “crippled” from polio and plagued by sickness her whole life. While Zionism applauded reproductive women’s bodies, Sampter never married or bore children; in fact, she wrote of homoerotic longings and had same-sex relationships. By charting how Sampter’s life did not neatly line up with her own religious and political ideals, Imhoff highlights the complicated and at times conflicting connections between the body, queerness, disability, religion, and nationalism.