bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling systemic responses in kidney transplantation: interplay between the allograft transcriptome and serum proteins
Authors: Buscher Konrad , Rixen Rebecca , Schütz Paula , Van Marck Veerle , Heitplatz Barbara , Gabriels Gert , Jehn Ulrich , Braun Daniela Anne , Pavenstädt Hermann , Reuter Stefan
Published: July 2024

Immunity, as defined by systems biology, encompasses a holistic response throughout the body, characterized by intricate connections with various tissues and compartments. However, this concept has been rarely explored in kidney transplantation. In this proof-of-concept study, we investigated a direct association between the allograft phenotype and serum protein signatures. Time-matched samples of graft biopsies and blood serum were collected in a heterogeneous cohort of kidney-transplanted patients (n = 15) for bulk RNA sequencing and proteomics, respectively. RNA transcripts exhibit distinct and reproducible, coregulated gene networks with specific functional profiles. We measured 159 serum proteins and investigated correlations with gene expression networks. Two opposing axes—one related to metabolism and the other to inflammation—were identified. They may represent a biological continuum between the allograft and the serum and correlate with allograft function, but not with interstitial fibrosis or proteinuria. For signature validation, we used two independent proteomic data sets (n = 21). Our findings establish a biological link between the allograft transcriptome and the blood serum proteome, highlighting systemic immune effects in kidney transplantation and offering a promising framework for developing allograft-linked biomarkers.
Ambulatory models for autologous stem-cell transplantation: a systematic review of the health impact
Authors: Prieto del Prado Miguel Ángel , Fernández Avilés Francesc
Published: July 2024

Autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard of care for the management of multiple myeloma and has a well-established role in the treatment of some types of lymphoma. Over the last decades, the number of ASCT performed has increased significantly, leading to elevated pressure and cost for healthcare services. Conventional model of ASCT includes the admission of patients to a specialized Transplant Unit at any stage of the procedure. To optimize healthcare provision, ambulatory (outpatient/at-home) setting should be the focus moving forward. Thus, ambulatory ASCT model permits reducing average hospital stays and pressures on healthcare services, with significant cost-saving benefits and high degree of patient and caregiver satisfaction. In addition, it facilitates the bed resource for other complex procedures such as allografts or CAR-T cell therapy. The aim of this systematic review is to document the health impact, feasibility and safety of the outpatient/at-home ASCT models, which are increasingly being applied around the world.
Causal effect of COVID-19 on optic nerve and visual pathway disorders: genetic evidence of lung-brain axis
Authors: Cao Chunge , Li Qiong , Cai Dajun , Yue Chaoyan , Zhao Hu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To investigate the potential causal association between COVID-19 exposure and optic nerve and visual pathway disorders through a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, and to provide empirical support for the lung-brain axis.

Methods

This MR analysis utilized publicly accessible summary-level data from genome-wide association studies on COVID-19 (n=158,783) and optic nerve and visual pathway diseases (n=412,181), primarily involving individuals of European descent. The random-effect inverse-variance weighted estimation was applied as the main analytical approach, complemented by MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode methods. The heterogeneity and pleiotropy of the instrumental variables were assessed using Cochran’s Q test, leave-one-out sensitivity analysis, MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO, and funnel plot evaluations.

Results

In the forward analysis, the inverse-variance weighted method identified a significant causal effect of COVID-19 on optic nerve and visual pathway disorders (odds ratio = 1.697, 95% confidence interval: 1.086–2.652, p = 0.020). Directionally consistent results were also observed with MR-Egger regression, weighted median, and weighted mode approaches. Conversely, the reverse analysis revealed no causal effects of optic nerve and visual pathway disorders on COVID-19 susceptibility.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that COVID-19 exposure may increase the risk of developing optic nerve and visual pathway disorders, supporting the lung-brain axis hypothesis. These results underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring of the visual system in patients recovering from COVID-19 and suggest potential avenues for future therapeutic strategies.
Case report and literature review: Laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy for a 55-year-old patient with idiopathic mesenteric phlebosclerosis
Authors: Liu Siyu , Tong Yujun , Shi Ruizi , Zeng Xintao , Luo Hua , Yang Pei , Cai Xianfu , Wang Decai , Luo Huiwen , Wang Jianjun
Published: July 2024

Idiopathic mesenteric phlebosclerosis (IMP) is an extremely rare disease with an unclear pathogenesis and risk factors. The clinical manifestations of IMP are mostly non-specific, mainly consisting of digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea. The diagnosis of IMP mainly relies on abdominal computed tomography (CT) and colonoscopy. Pathological changes associated with IMP often involve fibrous degeneration of the venous wall, which results in the thickening of the colonic wall and longitudinal calcification of the mesenteric arteries. Currently, there is no standard treatment protocol for IMP, and nonsurgical treatment is the mainstay of most medical centers. In this study, we reported a case of a 55-year-old female patient with IMP whose main clinical presentation was recurrent abdominal pain. The patient’s initial diagnosis was considered an incomplete intestinal obstruction and received non-surgical treatments; however, the efficacy of the treatment was unsatisfactory. After completing abdominal CT and colonoscopy, we excluded common diseases of the digestive system (e.g., tumors, Crohn’s disease), and finally considered that this patient had a high likelihood of IMP. This patient eventually underwent laparoscopic enlarged right hemicolectomy due to recurrent symptoms and poor outcomes of non-surgical treatment. Postoperative pathological results confirmed the diagnosis of IMP. During the follow-up period, the patient recovered well without recurrence of IMP. Furthermore, we have reviewed the literature related to IMP and summarized the etiology, risk factors, diagnostic methods, treatment options and prognosis of IMP.
Unveiling metabolic pathways of selected plant-derived glycans by Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum
Authors: Sanchez-Gallardo Rocio , Bottacini Francesca , Friess Lisa , Esteban-Torres Maria , Somers Clarissa , Moore Rebecca L. , McAuliffe Fionnuala M. , Cotter Paul D. , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: July 2024

Bifidobacteria are commonly encountered members of the human gut microbiota that possess the enzymatic machinery necessary for the metabolism of certain plant-derived, complex carbohydrates. In the current study we describe differential growth profiles elicited by a panel of 21 newly isolated Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum strains on various plant-derived glycans. Using a combination of gene-trait matching and comparative genome analysis, we identified two distinct xylanases responsible for the degradation of xylan. Furthermore, three distinct extracellular α-amylases were shown to be involved in starch degradation by certain strains of B. pseudocatenulatum. Biochemical characterization showed that all three α-amylases can cleave the related substrates amylose, amylopectin, maltodextrin, glycogen and starch. The genes encoding these enzymes are variably found in the species B. pseudocatenulatum, therefore constituting a strain-specific adaptation to the gut environment as these glycans constitute common plant-derived carbohydrates present in the human diet. Overall, our study provides insights into the metabolism of these common dietary carbohydrates by a human-derived bifidobacterial species.
Trypanosoma brucei multi-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase complex formation limits promiscuous tRNA proofreading
Authors: Watkins Rylan R. , Vradi Anna , Shulgina Irina , Musier-Forsyth Karin
Published: July 2024

Faithful mRNA decoding depends on the accuracy of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (ARSs). Aminoacyl-tRNA proofreading mechanisms have been well-described in bacteria, humans, and plants. However, our knowledge of translational fidelity in protozoans is limited. Trypanosoma brucei (Tb) is a eukaryotic, protozoan pathogen that causes Human African Trypanosomiasis, a fatal disease if untreated. Tb undergoes many physiological changes that are dictated by nutrient availability throughout its insect-mammal lifecycle. In the glucose-deprived insect vector, the tsetse fly, Tb use proline to make ATP via mitochondrial respiration. Alanine is one of the major by-products of proline consumption. We hypothesize that the elevated alanine pool challenges Tb prolyl-tRNA synthetase (ProRS), an ARS known to misactivate alanine in all three domains of life, resulting in high levels of misaminoacylated Ala-tRNAPro. Tb encodes two domains that are members of the INS superfamily of aminoacyl-tRNA deacylases. One homolog is appended to the N-terminus of Tb ProRS, and a second is the major domain of multi-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase complex (MSC)-associated protein 3 (MCP3). Both ProRS and MCP3 are housed in the Tb MSC. Here, we purified Tb ProRS and MCP3 and observed robust Ala-tRNAPro deacylation activity from both enzymes in vitro. Size-exclusion chromatography multi-angle light scattering used to probe the oligomerization state of MCP3 revealed that although its unique N-terminal extension confers homodimerization in the absence of tRNA, the protein binds to tRNA as a monomer. Kinetic assays showed MCP3 alone has relaxed tRNA specificity and promiscuously hydrolyzes cognate Ala-tRNAAla; this activity is significantly reduced in the presence of Tb alanyl-tRNA synthetase, also housed in the MSC. Taken together, our results provide insight into translational fidelity mechanisms in Tb and lay the foundation for exploring MSC-associated proteins as novel drug targets.
Peer-induced quiescence of male Drosophila melanogaster following copulation
Authors: Lynn Katrina , Ichinose Toshiharu , Tanimoto Hiromu
Published: July 2024

Mating experience impacts the physiology and behavior of animals. Although mating effects of female Drosophila melanogaster have been studied extensively, the behavioral changes of males following copulation have not been fully understood. In this study, we characterized the mating-dependent behavioral changes of male flies, especially focusing on fly-to-fly interaction, and their dependence on rearing conditions. Our data demonstrate that male flies quiesce their courtship toward both females and males, as well as their locomotor activity. This post-copulatory quiescence appears to be contingent upon the presence of a peer, as minimal variation is noted in locomotion when the male is measured in isolation. Interestingly, copulated males influence a paired male without successful copulation to reduce his locomotion. Our findings point to a conditional behavioral quiescence following copulation, influenced by the presence of other flies.
Progress of natural sesquiterpenoids in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Meng Fancheng , Mao Jingxin
Published: July 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the common malignant tumors of digestive tract, which seriously threatens the life of patients due to its high incidence rate, strong invasion, metastasis, and prognosis. At present, the main methods for preventing and treating HCC include medication, surgery, and intervention, but patients frequently encounter with specific adverse reactions or side effects. Many Traditional Chinese medicine can improve liver function, reduce liver cancer recurrence and have unique advantages in the treatment of HCC because of their acting mode of multi-target, multi-pathway, multi-component, and multi-level. Sesquiterpenoids, a class of natural products which are widely present in nature and exhibit good anti-tumor activity, and many of them possess good potential for the treatment of HCC. This article reviewed the anti-tumor activities, natural resources, pharmacological mechanism of natural sesquiterpenoids against HCC, providing the theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of HCC and a comprehensive understanding of their potential for development of new clinical drugs.
Population pharmacokinetics and exposure–response analyses of SAF-189s in Chinese patients with ALK+/ROS1+ non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Liu Yinhui , Tan Yan , Hu Lin , Li Jinlong , Yang Jiansong , Diao Lei , Yang Jin
Published: July 2024

Objective

SAF-189s is a potent ALK/ROS1 inhibitor that is currently in clinical development for treating advanced ALK+/ROS1+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Comprehensive population pharmacokinetics (PopPK) and exposure–response models were developed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SAF-189s by integrating data from two clinical studies.

Methods

The PopPK model was developed using plasma concentration data collected from patients with ALK+/ROS1+ advanced NSCLC (n = 299) and healthy subjects (n = 24). The covariates (demographics, laboratory values, subject types, and concomitant medications) were evaluated to determine their potential influence on the between-patient variability in the pharmacokinetics of SAF-189s. Individual exposure values were then used to investigate the relationships with the efficacy endpoints (overall response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), and duration of response (DOR)) and key safety endpoints (adverse events of interest).

Results

The final PopPK model of SAF-189s was described by a one-compartment model with delayed first-order absorption and time-dependent elimination by allowing the clearance to decrease stepwise over time. Age was included as a covariate for apparent clearance (CL/F), while prior anti-cancer therapy in ALK+ patients (ALKPOT) was included for apparent volume of distribution (V/F). There were no apparent exposure–response relationships for any of the efficacy endpoints at doses of 80–210 mg. The relationship between exposure and safety suggested that a higher steady-state exposure was associated with more frequent incidences of hyperglycemia and proteinuria; the 210-mg dose group was also less tolerated than the other low-dose groups.

Conclusion

PopPK and exposure–response models were developed for SAF-189s, and their results demonstrate that SAF-189s exposures are at the plateau of exposure–response for efficacy. The 210-mg dose group had a significantly higher safety risk, while the 160-mg dose group was well-tolerated. Thus, 160 mg of SAF-189s once daily was selected as the recommended phase III dose for the ALK+/ROS1+ or ROS1+ NSCLC patients.
The 4T and 7T introgressions from Amblyopyrum muticum and the 5Au introgression from Triticum urartu increases grain zinc and iron concentrations in Malawian wheat backgrounds
Authors: Guwela Veronica F. , Maliro Moses F. , Broadley Martin R. , Hawkesford Malcolm J. , Bokosi James M. , Grewal Surbhi , Coombes Benedict , Hall Anthony , Yang Caiyun , Banda Mike , Wilson Lolita , King Julie
Published: July 2024

Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) particularly zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) remain widespread in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to low dietary intake. Wheat is an important source of energy globally, although cultivated wheat is inherently low in grain micronutrient concentrations. Malawian wheat/Am. muticum and Malawian wheat/T. urartu BC1F3 introgression lines, developed by crossing three Malawian wheat varieties (Kenya nyati, Nduna and Kadzibonga) with DH-348 (wheat/Am. muticum) and DH-254 (wheat/T. urartu), were phenotyped for grain Zn and Fe, and associated agronomic traits in Zn-deficient soils, in Malawi. 98% (47) of the BC1F3 introgression lines showed higher Zn above the checks Paragon, Chinese Spring, Kadzibonga, Kenya Nyati and Nduna. 23% (11) of the introgression lines showed a combination of high yields and an increase in grain Zn by 16-30 mg kg -1 above Nduna and Kadzibonga, and 11-25 mg kg -1 above Kenya nyati, Paragon and Chinese Spring. Among the 23%, 64% (7) also showed 8-12 mg kg -1 improvement in grain Fe compared to Nduna and Kenya nyati. Grain Zn concentrations showed a significant positive correlation with grain Fe, whilst grain Zn and Fe negatively and significantly correlated with TKW and grain yield. This work will contribute to the efforts of increasing mineral nutrient density in wheat, specifically targeting countries in the SSA.
Adapting to climate change: responses of fine root traits and C exudation in five tree species with different light-use strategy
Authors: Sell Marili , Rohula-Okunev Gristin , Kupper Priit , Ostonen Ivika
Published: July 2024

Trees that are categorised by their light requirements have similarities in their growth strategies and adaptation mechanisms. We aimed to understand the complex responses of elevated air humidity on whole tree fine root carbon (C) exudation (ExC) and respiration rate, morphology, and functional distribution in species with different light requirements. Three light-demanding (LD) species, Populus × wettsteinii, Betula pendula, and Pinus sylvestris, and two shade-tolerant species, Picea abies and Tilia cordata saplings were grown in growth chambers under moderate and elevated air relative humidity (eRH) at two different inorganic nitrogen sources with constant air temperature and light availability. The proportion of assimilated carbon released by ExC, and respiration decreased at eRH; up to about 3 and 27%, respectively. There was an indication of a trade-off between fine root released C and biomass allocation. The elevated air humidity changed the tree biomass allocation and fine root morphology, and the responses were species-specific. The specific fine root area and absorptive root proportion were positively related to canopy net photosynthesis and leaf nitrogen concentration across tree species. The variation in ExC was explained by the trees’ light-use strategy (p < 0.05), showing higher exudation rates in LD species. The LD species had a higher proportion of pioneer root tips, which related to the enhanced ExC. Our findings highlight the significant role of fine root functional distribution and morphological adaptation in determining rhizosphere C fluxes in changing environmental conditions such as the predicted increase of air humidity in higher latitudes.
Phylogenomic data resolved the deep relationships of Gymnogynoideae (Selaginellaceae)
Authors: Zhao Jing , He Zhao-Rong , Fang Shao-Li , Han Xu-Ke , Jiang Lu-Yao , Hu Yu-Ping , Yu Hong , Zhang Li-Bing , Zhou Xin-Mao
Published: July 2024

The unresolved phylogenetic framework within the Selaginellaceae subfamily Gymnogynoideae (ca. 130 species) has hindered our comprehension of the diversification and evolution of Selaginellaceae, one of the most important lineages in land plant evolution. Here, based on plastid and nuclear data extracted from genomic sequencing of more than 90% species of all genera except two in Gymnogynoideae, a phylogenomic study focusing on the contentious relationships among the genera in Gymnogynoideae was conducted. Our major results included the following: (1) Only single-copy region (named NR) and only one ribosomal operon was firstly found in Afroselaginella among vascular plants, the plastome structure of Gymnogynoideae is diverse among the six genera, and the direct repeats (DR) type is inferred as the ancestral state in the subfamily; (2) The first strong evidence was found to support Afroselaginella as a sister to Megaloselaginella. Alternative placements of Ericetorum and Gymnogynum were detected, and their relationships were investigated by analyzing the variation of phylogenetic signals; and (3) The most likely genus-level relationships in Gymnogynoideae might be: ((Bryodesma, Lepidoselaginella), (((Megaloselaginella, Afroselaginella), Ericetorum), Gymnogynum)), which was supported by maximum likelihood phylogeny based on plastid datasets, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference based on SCG dataset and concatenated nuclear and plastid datasets and the highest proportion of phylogenetic signals of plastid genes.
Molecular farming navigates a complex regulatory landscape
Authors: Bobo Jack
Published: July 2024

Molecular farming, the practice of engineering plants to produce recombinant proteins, presents novel challenges and opportunities for domestic markets and international trade. This article explores the multifaceted risks associated with these biotechnological advancements, including public health concerns related to recombinant animal proteins produced in plants, cross-contamination and unintended allergens, and the necessity for stringent identity preservation systems to avoid past failures. On the global stage, the trade of such genetically engineered crops brings about unique regulatory concerns, underscoring the need for internationally harmonized policies and reevaluating existing low-level presence (LLP) thresholds to address unexpected allergens. Moreover, molecular farming ventures into complex religious and ethical territories, particularly affecting communities with strict dietary laws, such as Islamic, Jewish, and those following vegan or vegetarian lifestyles. Addressing these concerns requires a collaborative approach among scientists, regulatory bodies, industry leaders, and religious figures, aiming to foster an inclusive dialogue that navigates the ethical, religious, and environmental implications of integrating animal proteins into plant-based systems. Such efforts are essential for ensuring the responsible development of molecular farming technologies, contributing to a future of sustainable, secure, and inclusive food systems that respect diverse cultural and ethical values.
Mothers with a history of trauma and their children: a systematic review of treatment interventions
Authors: van Ee Elisa , Meuleman Eline M.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Mothers with a history of trauma frequently face significant challenges in their relationships with their children. Therefore, it is crucial for trauma-exposed mothers and their young children to receive adequate trauma-informed treatment. This review aimed to examine the effects of trauma-informed interventions on improving the mother–child relationship among mothers with a history of trauma and their young children under 6 years old.

Methods

The study analyzed 15 articles that met the eligibility criteria, encompassing a sample size of 1,321 mothers. The systematic GRADE approach was used to rate the certainty of evidence in this systematic review.

Results

The study found that while some interventions demonstrated small to large effects, the quality of evidence was only moderate. The most promising interventions were Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Child–Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), and Maternal Empowerment Program (MEP), which all included elements of psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and skills training.

Discussion

The study underscores the importance of understanding the needs of mother–child dyads affected by trauma and tailoring interventions to meet those needs. Overall, the literature suggests that interventions combining psychotherapeutic, psychoeducational, and skills-training components are most effective in improving mother and child-related outcomes for mothers with a history of trauma and their young children. The review provides recommendations for future research and emphasizes the importance of considering the mother–child relationship in trauma-informed interventions.
Schrödinger's Cat—Parallel experiences: exploring the underlying mechanisms of undergraduates' engagement and perception in online learning
Authors: Zhang Hongfeng , Liu Yan , Su Shaodan
Published: July 2024

Background

The emergence of e-learning had an intense, immediate, and disruptive transformation in the education system. While education aims to seek more interactions and learning engagement between teachers and students, it turns out that it takes lots of work to achieve the goal in the online classroom.

Aims

This study aims to explore the underlying mechanisms and implications that emerge from the influence of the new features of online learning, drawing on students' real-life experiences, to construct a comprehensive theoretical model.

Sample

From July 2023 to October 2023, 56 undergraduates, including 18 male and 38 female, participated in the data collection process either face-to-face or online.

Methods

The study constructs a substantive theoretical model by employing the approaches of The Grounded Theory, three level-coding constant comparative method, theoretical sampling, core category distillation and storyline collation.

Results

(1) The elements involved in the process of online learning exhibit underlying logical correlations, driven by profound underlying factors, ultimately resulting in a parallel experience akin to Schrödinger's Cat. (2) Online features lead to students' motivation mainly depending on whether they are self-regulated. (3) Teacher-student interactions and self-regulation shape different learning contexts and types by being moderated by internal and external effects.

Conclusions

Students had a parallel experience similar to that of Schrödinger's Cat: they were constantly dissatisfied with “rational” learning and “perceptually” satisfied with online learning. The variation in the satisfaction of the three basic psychological needs necessities college students in online learning leads to parallel experiences.
Practicing traditional cultural games skills according to random and game-based practice schedules can improve gross motor skills performance
Authors: Cheong Jadeera Phaik Geok , Hussain Bahar
Published: July 2024

The aim of this research was to examine the effects of using a random and game-based practice schedule for Traditional Cultural Games (TCG) skills on the performance of gross motor skills. Specifically, skills of two types of TCG, Chindro, an individual TCG, and Pittu-Garam, a team TCG, were practiced. 102 primary school children, ages seven to ten, attended a total of eighteen sessions of skill practice in 6 weeks, practicing TCG motor skills found in the game of Chindro or Pittu-Garam. For each TCG, participants were assigned to either random or game-based conditions, contributing to four experimental groups (Chindro random, Chindro game-based, Pittu random, and Pittu game-based). Gross motor skills performance was measured, before and after the experiment, according to the Test of Gross Motor Development-2. Particularly, the performance of six gross motor skills, Catch, Overhead Throw, Underhand Roll, Hop, Leap, and Jump, were assessed. Additionally, through a transfer test, the same skills were evaluated from a real-world game situation. In the skills performance test, all four groups significantly improved gross motor skills performance by the end of the experiment. However, there was no difference found between the groups based on game-based and random selection in the skills performance test and the game transfer test for both TCG. Practicing TCG skills according to high interference practice schedules, whether individually or in combination, improved gross motor skills performance. The study indicated that a game-based practice schedule could be a substitute for a random practice schedule when planning a training session involving high-interference practice schedules.
Explaining the negative effects of workplace incivility on family lives: a moderated mediation model of surface acting and resource-providing variables
Authors: Gu Yuanbo , Wang Cuiping , Ma Jinhua
Published: July 2024

The effects of workplace incivility have been understudied in educational settings. To expand incivility research to educational professions, the present research investigates whether, how, and when workplace incivility deriving from different sources (coworkers, supervisors, and outsiders) is related to work-to-family interference (WFI) of preschool teachers. Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, the present study proposes that workplace incivility and subsequent maladaptive emotion labor strategies (i.e., surface acting) jointly create a resource-depletion mechanism contributing to elevated WFI and two resource-providing variables (supervisor work–family support and psychological detachment after hours) function as potential mitigating factors to break the resource-depletion mechanism. This study used a female-dominated sample (i.e., preschool teachers) found that workplace incivility from insiders (supervisors and coworkers respectively) and external stakeholders (child’s family members) all positively linked to WFI, and surface acting mediated these relationships. Moreover, moderated mediation analyses indicated that psychological detachment buffered the mediated effect of surface acting on WFI, whereas supervisor work–family support did not. Findings deepen the understanding of why and when workplace incivility influences employees’ family lives, as well as point to future intervention strategies.
Impact of psychosocial stress on facial emotion recognition in schizophrenia and controls: an experimental study in a forensic sample
Authors: Hachtel Henning , Deuring Gunnar , Graf Marc , Vogel Tobias
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Psychotic disorders have been associated with dysregulated stress reactions and adaptation. Little is known about the neuroendocrine responses to psychosocial stress in justice-involved individuals with schizophrenia.

Methods

Using an experimental research design, the present study aims to examine differences in the subjective and neuroendocrine responses to psychosocial stress and its impact on facial emotion recognition (FER) and performance on an arithmetic task in chronically ill justice-involved individuals with schizophrenia (PAT) and a healthy control group. PAT undergoing treatment in forensic psychiatric inpatient wards (n = 17) and a healthy control group (n = 17) were assessed regarding sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Additionally, salivary cortisol levels, measured before and after performing a psychosocial stress task [Montreal Imaging Stress Task (MIST)], and performance on an arithmetic problem-solving task and two FER tasks were recorded. Two participants dropped out, one from each group. Therefore, the final sample consisted of 32 individuals.

Results

Significant group differences in FER were recorded. There was a significant rise in subjective perception of momentary strain relating to the induction of psychosocial stress in both groups. Notably, the pre-stress level of subjective strain was higher in the PAT group than controls. Acute psychosocial stress induced an increase in FER performance in a sub-task related to naming emotions in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorder.

Discussion

The results underline the importance of psychosocial and therapeutic interventions aimed at strengthening stress resilience in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation and narrow-band auditory stimulation on the intraoperative electroencephalogram: an exploratoratory feasibility study
Authors: Isik Oliver G. , Cassim Tuan Z. , Ahmed Meah T. , Kreuzer Matthias , Daramola Alice M. , Garcia Paul S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

During general anesthesia, frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) activity in the alpha frequency band (8–12 Hz) correlates with the adequacy of analgesia. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and auditory stimulation, two noninvasive neuromodulation techniques, can entrain alpha activity in awake or sleeping patients. This study evaluates their effects on alpha oscillations in patients under general anesthesia.

Methods

30 patients receiving general anesthesia for surgery were enrolled in this two-by-two randomized clinical trial. Each participant received active or sham tDCS followed by auditory stimulation or silence according to assigned group (TDCS/AUD, TDCS/SIL, SHAM/AUD, SHAM/SIL). Frontal EEG was recorded before and after neuromodulation. Patients with burst suppression, mid-study changes in anesthetic, or incomplete EEG recordings were excluded from analysis. The primary outcome was post-stimulation change in oscillatory alpha power, compared in each intervention group against the change in the control group SHAM/SIL by Wilcoxon Rank Sum testing.

Results

All 30 enrolled participants completed the study. Of the 22 included for analysis, 8 were in TDCS/AUD, 4 were in TDCS/SIL, 5 were in SHAM/AUD, and 5 were in SHAM/SIL. The median change in oscillatory alpha power was +4.7 dB (IQR 4.4, 5.8 dB) in SHAM/SIL, +2.8 dB (IQR 1.5, 8.9 dB) in TDCS/SIL (p = 0.730), +5.5 dB in SHAM/AUD (p = 0.421), and -6.1 dB (IQR -10.2, -2.2 dB) in TDCS/AUD (p = 0.045).

Conclusion

tDCS and auditory stimulation can be administered safely intraoperatively. However, these interventions did not increase alpha power as administered and measured in this pilot study.
Crime against women in India: district-level risk estimation using the small area estimation approach
Authors: Pooja B. S. , Guddattu Vasudeva , Rao K. Aruna
Published: July 2024

Background

The global prevalence of crimes against women has made it an enduring public health challenge that has persisted over time. The achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is intricately tied to the actions taken to prevent these crimes as their repercussions directly affect progress across various SDGs. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive examination of the prevalence of crimes against women across districts and states in India, analyzing changes from 2020 to 2022, and subsequently identifying associated factors.

Methods

The study is an ecological analysis conducted across all districts of India using the data on crimes against women for the period 2020 and 2022 obtained from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) of India. A small area estimation method was used to obtain district-level relative risks of crime against women for both periods. Hotspot analysis was carried out to identify the current hotspots and coldspots. Further spatial regression was used to identify the factors associated with crimes against women in the year 2022.

Results

The results indicated a rise in the reported crime against women cases between 2020 and 2022. The rate of crimes against women at the national level was found to be 57 in the year 2020, whereas, in 2022, it increased to 67. The highest crime rate in the year 2022 was found to be 145 in Delhi, while Nagaland had the lowest crime rate of 5. The relative risk of crime against women varied from 0.046 to 4.68 in 2020, while in 2022, it spanned from 0.02 to 6.10. Significant hotspots were found in parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Telangana, and Odisha. The results of the spatial error regression model showed that the sex ratio and the population density of the district have significant associations with the occurrence of crimes against women.

Conclusion

The rise in the incidence of crime against women emphasizes the importance of tackling the spatial inequality in relative risk across Indian districts. By thoughtfully addressing this variation and conducting targeted studies in high-risk areas, we can enhance our understanding of the obstacles to implementing effective measures against violence targeting women.
Developing a consensus-based motivational care pathway for individuals with lower limb fractures: a Delphi protocol
Authors: Fernandes Júlio Belo , Fernandes Sónia , Romão Ana , Domingos Josefa , Ferreira Rui , Amador Catarina , Pardal Nelson , Malato Domingos , Barroco Ana , Félix Ana , Oliveira António , Rito Fernanda , Ratão Hélder , Martins Rita , Silva Sandra , Godinho Catarina
Published: July 2024

Older adults with lower limb fractures often harbor concerns about losing their mobility, fearing a loss of independence. It is vital to develop strategies that foster their active engagement in the rehabilitation process. The present protocol aims to create a care pathway tailored to motivate individuals with lower limb fractures to adhere to rehabilitation. We will develop an observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study using the Delphi data-gathering approach. Purposive sampling will recruit a panel of healthcare professionals and experts who care for patients with lower limb fractures. Aligned with the Delphi method, a series of iterative rounds will be developed to gather consensus around the motivational strategies used by health professionals in the rehabilitation of people with lower limb fractures. We will employ the Qualtrics platform for data collection and analysis, and a consensus target of 75% has been predetermined. For quantitative data analysis, we will use descriptive statistics encompassing a range of measures, including count, mean, standard deviation, median, minimum, maximum, and range. An inductive thematic analysis procedure will be employed to extract meaningful themes and patterns from qualitative data. The study results are expected to significantly impact clinical practice by creating a specialized care pathway to motivate individuals with lower limb fractures to adhere to rehabilitation. Adopting these explicit standards by professionals will ensure uniform and high-quality care.
Giving insights into an ICF training: evaluation of an in-person interactive ICF training in Germany
Authors: Kirschneck Michaela , Kus Sandra , Coenen Michaela
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) adopted the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) in 2001. The classification provides a framework for the standardised description of functioning and disability using health and health-related domains. The implementation of the ICF is diverse and has a wide range of applications. A thorough understanding of the ICF classification is essential for successful implementation. We developed and delivered an in-person interactive ICF training to facilitate the implementation of the ICF in Germany. The aim of this paper is to present the evaluation of this in-person interactive ICF training.

Methods

The evaluation was conducted with questionnaires assessing the organisation of the workshops and the knowledge gained during the training using Likert scaled questions. Open-ended questions were used to gather feedback on the further development of the ICF training. Data were analysed descriptively using absolute and relative frequencies. Open-ended questions were analysed qualitatively.

Results

Between 2017 and mid-2020, a team of trainers at the Chair of Public Health and Health Services Research (IBE) at LMU Munich organised 12 in-person interactive ICF trainings with a total of 191 participants. In total 151 participants filled in the questionnaires (response rate: 79.1%). The participants` professional backgrounds were primarily in the social sector (n = 76; 50.3%), clinical sector (n = 36; 23.8%), and administrative sector (n = 31; 20.5%). 42.4% of the participants strongly agreed that the content was relevant to their work, while an additional 51.0% almost agreed. According to this evaluation, 82.1% of the participants would recommend the training to others.

Discussion

A number of constructive suggestions and proposals were made for the further development of the training programme. These mainly related to the content of the training, such as the themes of children and youth and integration assistance.
Recent advances in fecal microbiota transplantation for Clostridium difficile infection-associated diarrhea after kidney transplantation
Authors: Li Yurong , Yang Yaoyao , Yang Ning , Wu Qin , Yang Jinjin , Guo Jing , Zhang Hongmei
Published: July 2024

Kidney transplantation is considered to be the best treatment for end-stage renal disease. To reduce the incidence of rejection and improve the survival of recipients and kidney grafts, kidney transplant recipients must take immunosuppressive agents, and some patients require them for the rest of their lifetime. These treatment regimens can result in susceptibility to opportunistic infections and disrupt the intestinal microbiota, thereby leading to diarrhea, which causes water and electrolyte metabolism disorder, nutrient malabsorption, and instability in the blood concentrations of the immunosuppressive agents. Fluctuating blood concentration levels of these agents necessitate frequent laboratory monitoring and dose adjustments to avoid poor adherence and increase the risk of graft rejection. Furthermore, severe diarrhea can cause kidney transplant failure or death. Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is the leading cause of diarrhea after renal transplantation. Traditional antibiotics can kill C. difficile; however, spores can remain in the gut. Disruption of the intestinal flora caused by antibiotherapy increases the risk of developing recurrent CDI (rCDI). Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment for CDI and is recommended for rCDI owing to its convenient material acquisition method, high efficacy, and low incidence of adverse reactions. This review summarizes the recent progress in FMT for CDI-associated diarrhea after renal transplantation.
Challenging assumptions: “unveiling meritocracy’s reality in neurosurgery”
Authors: Encarnacion Ramirez Manuel De Jesus , Peralta Baez Ismael Antonio , Reyes Soto Gervith , Ntalaja Mukengeshay Jeff , tshiunza Cherubin mpoyi , Rosario Andreina Rosario , Vladimir Nikolaevich Nikolenko , Nurmukhametov Renat , Kannan Siddarth , Simfukwe Keith , Duchén Rodríguez Luis Miguel , Chmutin Gennady , Chmutin Egor , Sufianov Albert , Soriano Sanchez Jose Antonio , Demetriades Andreas K. , Baldoncini Matias , Campero Alvaro , Piavchenko Gennadii , Montes de Oca Juan Carlos Roa , Kalangu Kazadi Kelvin , Jenkins Alistair , Lafuente Jesus
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Meritocracy, a concept revered as the cornerstone of fairness and equal opportunity, is critically examined in the context of neurosurgery. This article challenges the notion that success in this demanding field is solely determined by individual abilities and effort. It reveals that factors such as background, gender, and socioeconomic status significantly influence one's career trajectory. By investigating how these systemic barriers impact admissions to neurosurgical training programs and professional advancement, the paper underscores the complexity of meritocracy in neurosurgery, suggesting that the meritocratic ideal is more nuanced and influenced by external variables than commonly believed.

Results

Certain universities deemed elite offer a curriculum divergent from that of their counterparts in low and middle-income countries. Students at these “elite” institutions gain exposure to new technologies and research incentives, which brings us to the realm of research. Remarkably, 75% of articles originating from developed nations account for just 25% of traumatic brain injury cases. This disparity highlights a significant research imbalance, and the common refrain underscores the need to bolster research capabilities in low-income countries. For neurosurgeons in the developing world, engaging in research often becomes a luxury due to multifaceted challenges. Financial barriers, including publication costs and paywalls for accessing articles, pose significant hurdles. Comparing salaries between countries underscores the glaring divide according to “Neurosurgeon Salary” in 2024. Neurosurgeons in the United States receive a median salary of $412,000 dollars per year, compared to $13,200 dollars in Latin America, as of June 2023. Given such incongruities, the prospect of even attending conferences or workshops abroad remains difficult for neurosurgeons from developing nations. Research isn't cast aside due to a lack of interest but due to resource limitations. The present landscape demands reconsideration.

Conclusion

We underscore the journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future in neurosurgery as not just a goal, but a dynamic process fuelled by resilience, collaboration, and a commitment to diversity. The narrative promotes a collective endeavour to dismantle barriers and embrace innovation, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, cross-institutional collaboration, and the amplification of underrepresented voices.
Investigation of COVID-19 virus mutagenicity and the effect of the NSP13, NSP14, and NSP16 on the -1 ribosomal frameshifting
Authors: Khanifar Ali , Najafi Azin , Hemmati Jaber , Nouri Fatemeh , Hosseini Seyed Ali , Taheri Mohammad
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 virus is a single-stranded virus from the Coronaviridae family and has a genome of about 29881 bp, which causes acute respiratory disease. One way of transmission of the COVID-19 virus is respiratory, which is the reason for the significant transmission of the disease. The COVID-19 virus causes mutagenesis in different parts of the virus genome with its mechanisms, including -1 ribosomal frameshifting. Various parts that have undergone the most severe mutations include the spike protein, which leads to the emergence of new variants. Most of the mutations observed in the COVID-19 virus are located in the S protein and a region known as the RBD (Receptor-Binding Domain), which binds to the ACE2 (Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) receptor in human cells. The variations in the RBD region will determine how it binds to the ACE2 receptor. Essentially, the changes created because of the mutation determine the affinity of the RBD to ACE2. On the other hand, the COVID-19 virus, because of its NSP13, NSP14, and NSP16 proteins, helps the mutation of the virus by consuming magnesium ions (Mg2+). Since the ribosome is stable with Mg2+, the COVID-19 virus, by consuming Mg2+, causes the ribosome to convert from the polysome to the monosome state, which causes a break in translation and finally leads to the formation of -1 ribosomal frameshifting.
A Novel Hybrid Crow Search Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm for Solving Weighted Combined Economic Emission Dispatch with Load-Shifting Practice
Authors: Dey Bishwajit , Sharma Gulshan , Bokoro Pitshou N.
Published: July 2024

The crow search arithmetic optimization algorithm (CSAOA) method is introduced in this article as a novel hybrid optimization technique. This proposed strategy is a population-based metaheuristic method inspired by crows’ food-hiding techniques and merged with a recently created simple yet robust arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA). The proposed method’s performance and superiority over other existing methods is evaluated using six benchmark functions that are unimodal and multimodal in nature, and real-time optimization problems related to power systems, such as the weighted dynamic economic emission dispatch (DEED) problem. A load-shifting mechanism is also implemented, which reduces the system’s generation cost even further. An extensive technical study is carried out to compare the weighted DEED to the penalty factor-based DEED and arrive at a superior compromise option. The effects of CO2, SO2, and NOx are studied independently to determine their impact on system emissions. In addition, the weights are modified from 0.1 to 0.9, and the effects on generating cost and emission are investigated. Nonparametric statistical analysis asserts that the proposed CSAOA is superior and robust.