bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using a Syndemic Framework and Structural Equation Modeling to Assess the Co-occurrence and Mutual Impact of Violence Experiences and Substance Use Behaviors Among Adolescents
Authors: Yang Yingwei
Published: July 2023

Adolescents are at particular risk for multiple violence experiences and substance use behaviors. The extent to which the two clusters of experiences correlate with each other remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to assess the co-occurrence and mutual impact of violence experiences and substance use behaviors in adolescents using structural equation modeling (SEM) based on syndemic theory. This study utilized data collected by 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey from a nationally representative sample ( N = 13,677). Bivariate associations and correlations between four forms of violence experiences (weapon threats, sexual violence, dating violence, and bullying) and three types of substance use behaviors (e-cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, and marijuana use) were examined. Two SEM models were built to measure the correlation between the two clusters of variables. The results showed that 36.8% of adolescents experienced at least one form of violence in the past year (22.0% one form, 8.9% two forms, and 5.9% three or more forms) and 42.4% reported one or more types of substance use in the past month (16.3% one type, 14.0% two types, and 12.1% three types). Youths with multiple violence experiences were three to four times more likely to report substance use, and those using three types of substances were two to six times more likely to report violence victimization. All examined associations and correlations between violence experiences and substance use behaviors were statistically significant. In the final SEM model, the four violence variables indicated a syndemic factor and the three substance use variables indicated another syndemic factor. The two syndemic factors were positively correlated (β = .43, p < .05), with 19% of variance being explained by each other. Findings in this study highlight the needs for comprehensive prevention efforts to address the co-occurring and mutually reinforced situation between violence experiences and substance use behaviors in the youth population. Targeted intervention programs and mental health services are needed for adolescents with multiple violence experiences and concurrent substance use behaviors.
Determinants of Employment Intensity of Growth in India: An Insight from Panel Data
Authors: Irshad Mohd , Qayed Syed Hasan
Published: July 2023

This study examines the employment elasticity of growth at the sectoral level using the KLEMS database for the period 1980–1981 to 2018–2019. After estimating elasticity, we employ the dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS) technique to investigate its determinants. The elasticity for the overall period falls between 0.91 and −0.039. Elasticity estimation at the sub-period level varies across three different sub-periods. Agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing, and mining and quarrying observed negative elasticity of −0.58 and −0.63, respectively, whereas services and construction show the highest positive elasticity. The DOLS estimation shows that in the full panel, labour quality and wages positively impact employment elasticity of growth, whereas the dummy representing the reforms of 1991 negatively impacts employment elasticity. The magnitude of the coefficient of the workers involved in strikes and lockouts and days lost due to strikes is zero although it is significant. The sectoral analysis shows that the sign and significance of the coefficients vary across the industries except for labour quality. Labour quality is positively significant for almost all the industries in both equations. Wages and employment elasticity observe unique patterns, for example relatively highest and lowest-paying sectors observe reduced employment elasticity. Finally, we suggest that specific policy formulation and efforts are needed to be in place to promote quality of labour and relish real demographic dividends.
Deltoid ligament injury and repair
Authors: Loozen Loek , Veljkovic Andrea , Younger Alastair
Published: July 2023

The deltoid ligament is the primary stabilizer of the medial side of the ankle joint. It is a complex structure with an origin at the medial malleolus from where it spreads fan shaped distally with an insertion into the medial side of the talus, calcaneus and navicular bone. This chapter gives an overview of the anatomy, function, and pathology of the deltoid ligament.

The deltoid ligament can become insufficient as a result of an ankle injury or prolonged strain. In the acute setting, deltoid insufficiency often coincides with multi ligament injury the ankle joint; syndesmosis injury, or ankle fractures. Management in the acute phase remains a subject of debate. Some orthopedic surgeons have a tendency towards repair, whereas most trauma surgeons often treat the deltoid nonoperatively. In the chronic setting the ligament complex is often elongated as a result of prolonged strain. It often coexists with a hindfoot valgus, as is the case in planovalgus feet. In such a case a realignment procedure should be combined with the deltoid repair.
Risk factors for sexually transmitted infections in sexual assault victims attending an Accident and Emergency Department in Hong Kong
Authors: Man Tak Wah , Wong Ying Kit , Lee Iris Yee Chi
Published: July 2023

Objective:

The prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in Hong Kong is not high. The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors that associated with occurrence of sexually transmitted infections in local sexual assault victims, so as to facilitate the counseling and management of victims upon their initial attendance at an Accident and Emergency Department.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort of sexual assault victims presented to Accident and Emergency Department of Kwong Wah Hospital between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2021. The outcome was the occurrence of sexually transmitted infections. Variables were analyzed using univariate and multivariable analyses.

Results:

A total of 190 victims were included in the study. Univariate analysis indicated that sexual assault involving multiple perpetrator, oral penetration, and anal penetration were associated with increased occurrence of sexually transmitted infections in the victims (all with p < 0.05). Among these, multiple perpetrator was the only statistically significant risk factor on multivariable analysis ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Multiple-perpetrator sexual assault was identified as a significant risk factor of sexually transmitted infections. Emergency physicians should consider explaining to victims of multiple-perpetrator sexual assault that they have a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections and emphasizing on the importance of complying with medical treatments, attending follow-up and observing symptoms of sexually transmitted infections. Proper clinical assessment, adequate follow-up, and reassurance for the victims with lower likelihood of contracting sexually transmitted infections are suggested for managing sexual assault victims.
Café-au-lait Spots and Cleft Palate: Not a Chance Association
Authors: Yamada Mamiko , Tanito Katsumi , Suzuki Hisato , Nakato Daisuke , Miya Fuyuki , Takenouchi Toshiki , Kosaki Kenjiro
Published: July 2023

The recognition of syndromic forms of cleft palate is important for condition-specific management. Here, we report a patient with cleft palate, congenital heart disease, intellectual disability, and café-au-lait spots who had a deletion of chromosome 15q14. The identification of the precise breakpoints using a Nanopore-based long-read sequencer showed that the deletion spanned MEIS2 and SPRED1 loci. Cleft palate and café-au-lait spots can be ascribed to MEIS2 and SPRED1, respectively. Patients with cleft palate and café-au-lait spots should be encouraged to undergo a detailed genomic evaluation, including screening for a 15q14 deletion, to enable appropriate anticipatory medico-surgical management and genetic counseling.
Multi-Method Qualitative Text and Discourse Analysis: A Methodological Framework
Authors: Alejandro Audrey , Zhao Longxuan
Published: July 2023

The growing interest in combining different approaches to qualitative text and discourse analysis has so far not been met with adapted methodological resources. This article aims to address this gap by developing a methodological framework for combining qualitative text and discourse analysis. First, we introduce four traditions that we identify as four families of methods of text/discourse analysis with different logics: Discourse Analysis, Foucauldian Discourse Analysis, Thematic Analysis, and Qualitative Content Analysis. Second, we review the literature to show how these methods have been combined across disciplines and case studies. Third, we build upon existing literature to unpack the benefits and challenges of multi-method text/discourse analysis, and offer strategies to help navigate the problems that may arise. Overall, this article introduces multi-method qualitative text and discourse analysis (MMQTDA) as a methodological framework to provide guidance and offer solid foundations for an emerging methodological conversation in qualitative text research.
Lessons learned from conducting mental health intervention research in schools in the global south: Our experiences in South Africa and Kenya
Authors: Loades Maria E , Coetzee Bronwynè , Osborn Tom , Human Suzanne , Venturo-Conerly Katherine
Published: July 2023

Most of the world’s population of young people live in lower-and middle-income countries (LMICs; (Weine, Horvath Marques, Singh, & Pringle, 2020)), and these young people experience heightened rates of known risk factors for developing mental disorders such as poverty and exposure to trauma (Atwoli, Stein, Koenen, & McLaughlin, 2015). Access to professional psychological treatments is limited in LMICs due to structural barriers (e.g., a dearth of trained professionals) and cultural factors like stigma and beliefs about mental health and illness. Therefore, schools, which are widely attended, may be a good location for providing mental health interventions, and it is important that we develop and evaluate feasible, acceptable, effective, and scalable interventions for use in this context. Yet under 10% of clinical trials of psychotherapies (Venturo-Conerly, Eisenman, Wasil, Singla, & Weisz, 2022) have been conducted in LMICs. And there are particular challenges to conducting research in schools, as has been highlighted in the UK context by Moore et al. (2022). Building on that commentary, our aim herein is to share our learnings from conducting psychotherapy research in schools in Kenya and South Africa.
Prediction and influencing factors of photovoltaic system power generation of a single house based on continuously measured data
Authors: Zhang Weirong , Liu Xinyang , Deng Gaofeng , Wang Zhichao
Published: July 2023

With the development of photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems in single houses, research has recently focused on the prediction of PV power generation to match PV power generation with building energy consumption characteristics. However, prediction models for PV power generation under different weather conditions based on the actual monitoring data of the PV power generation system in a single house are still lacking. The present study is based on the actual monitoring of PV power generation data of a single house with a PV system that was installed in Beijing 5 years ago. We analysed the main weather factors affecting PV power generation and power conversion efficiency (PCE). The results showed a positive correlation between power generation and solar radiation, with the ambient temperature (Ta) and total cloud cover (TCC) being the main weather factors affecting power generation and PCE. Based on the analysis results, a support vector regression (SVR) model was established to predict PV power generation. In addition, the mean absolute error (MAE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and coefficient of variation (R2) of the SVR model were 3.39, 34.7% and 0.86, respectively, which can accurately be used to predict PV power generation under different weather types.
Moisture insensitive analysis of polyester/viscose waste textiles using Near-Infrared spectroscopy and Orthogonalization of external parameters algorithm
Authors: Qiu Xun , Liu Yuanyuan , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Liu Dongzhi , Wang Ran , Wang Chong , Liu Jun , Liu Wei , Gong Yan
Published: July 2023

Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopic analyses can be applied in waste textile recycling as a rapid and non-invasive method to provide both qualitative and quantitative results. However, it has been a challenge to enhance the accuracy rate of NIR-based waste textile sorting due to the major influences from water contexts in the samples. Orthogonalization of External Parameters (EPO) has been introduced to reduce the interference from water absorption in NIR spectral signals for better accuracy and reliability in modeling. Here we explore the feasibility of applying EPO strategy with varieties of algorithms, including partial least squares regression (PLS), artificial neural network (ANN), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT), extreme random tree (Extra-tree), decision tree model based on AdaBoost algorithm (AdaBoost-tree), support Vector machine (SVM), one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN), and one-dimensional convolutional neural network with improved Inception structure (1D-Inception-CNN). 216 waste textiles samples from Xinjiang, China, were studied with different moisture levels. Among them, 80 samples were used to develop the EPO algorithm, 112 were used to establish the prediction models, and 24 were used as test datasets. Then, the samples were scanned using a near-infrared spectrometer at different moisture regain rates. Our results showed that the moisture content of waste textiles had strong absorption peaks near 1150 and 1450 nm, leading to a decrease in the near-infrared reflectance of waste textiles. To verify the effectiveness of the EPO algorithm, the decision coefficients (R2 score) and other indicators of the model without the EPO process and the model with EPO process are systematically compared. Our results show that the EPO algorithm preprocessing improves the accuracy of the NIR model (The average decision coefficient (R2 score) of the models was increased by 0.83), especially when the moisture interference level is significant. Therefore, the EPO integrated modeling method is a reliable approach for better accuracy in NIR-based waste textile sorting.
In Silico Investigation of Aporphine Alkaloids Isolated From Magnolia coriacea Against α-Glucosidase and Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B
Authors: Ninh Pham Thi , Bui Thanh Q. , Dung Nguyen Thi , Sung Tran Van , Phuong Thao Tran Thi , Thu Ha Chu Thi , Thanh Bui Van , Chien Tran Van , Quy Phan Tu , Triet Nguyen Thanh , Thai Nguyen Minh , Nhung Nguyen Thi Ai
Published: July 2023

Objective

Magnolia coriacea is a rare species of Magnoliaceae and categorized as critically endangered, yet known for its valuable pharmaceutical properties. Phytochemical study of the plant was carried out, and the isolated compounds were subjected to different computational platforms to predict their chemical, inhibitory, physicochemical, and pharmacological properties.

Methods

M coriacea dried twig or leaf powder was partially extracted with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and 90% methanol to produce the corresponding extracts, which were subjected to column chromatography. The isolated compounds were identified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) methods.

Results

Eight known aporphine alkaloids were isolated, (+)-glaucine N-oxide (1), N-methyl glaucine acetate (2), (+)-( S)-glaucine (3), magnoflorine (4), pontevedrine (5), O-methylatheroline (6), 7-hydroxydehydroglaucine (7), and mangochinine acetate (8). Quantum-based calculations found no abnormal structural constraints and suggested 2, 4, and 8 as the most promising inhibitors of protein structures in general with intensive nucleophilic reactive sites at their nitrogen atoms. Classical-based docking simulation agrees with this with respect to 3W37 (docking score [DS] < −12 kcal·mol−1) and PTP1B (DS ca −13 kcal·mol−1) structures. The biocompatibility and pharmacokinetics of the three candidates given by quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) regressions justify their potential for medicinal development. The results encourage further experimental studies of the promising M coriacea-extracted aporphine alkaloids for drug-developing purposes, especially mangochinine acetate (8).

Conclusions

Isolation and molecular docking simulation of 8 aporphine alkaloids were accomplished. QSAR and ADMET regressions suggested that three compounds (2, 4, and 8) were the most suitable for medicinal applications given both biocompatibility and pharmacokinetics based on specific prediction toward 3W37 (α-glucosidase) and PTP1B (tyrosine phosphatase 1B) structures.
Asymmetric and Lag Effects of Industry Risk Factors on the Malaysian Oil and Gas Stocks
Authors: Hoque Mohammad Enamul , Low Soo-Wah , Zaidi Mohd Azlan Shah , Tee Lain-Tze , Ghazali Noor Azlan
Published: July 2023

This study examines asymmetric and the lag effects of oil price, gas price, and exchange rate on stock performance of the Malaysian oil and gas sub-industries. Using company-level data and multi factor asset pricing models, this study found that oil price, gas price, exchange rate, and common systematic risk factors such as market, size, and book-to-market have significant effects on the stock performance of Malaysian oil and gas sub-industries, but these exposures remain heterogeneous. Oil price and exchange rate show strong asymmetrical impacts on stock performance when decomposed into oil price increases (decreases) and exchange rate depreciation (appreciation). Increases in oil price and exchange rate depreciation have a greater impact on stock performance of oil and gas industry than decreases in oil price and exchange rate appreciation. Oil price, gas price, and exchange rate exhibit lag effects on the performance of oil and gas stocks. The findings have important asset pricing implications for profitable investment and portfolio strategies based on oil and gas risk factors for oil-exporting country.

JEL Classifications: C13; C58; G10; G12; G14; Q4
Which Grandparents? Multigenerational Education Associations by Grandparent Gender and Paternal versus Maternal Side
Authors: Li Anita
Published: July 2023

A growing body of research focuses on multigenerational mobility, but few studies show how grandparents’ gender and gender-specific lineage (paternal vs. maternal side) are differentially associated with the process of status transmissions across generations. This article uses data from the Health and Retirement Study 1992–2018 (N = 15,623) to examine gender and gender-specific lineage differences in grandparent-grandchild education associations. Grandfathers’ educational attainment is more strongly associated with grandchildren’s education than is grandmothers’ education. Variation in shared lifetimes and residential proximity do not account for these differences, but shared lifetimes between grandmothers and grandchildren are positively associated with grandchildren’s educational attainment.
Learner Diversity in Higher Education: Articulations of Diverse Subjectivities Through Everyday Life Experiences
Authors: Bose Anuradha
Published: July 2023

This paper explores how articulations of diverse learners’ identities and subjectivities emerge through everyday life experiences within a modern public university in India. The study adopts a constructivist grounded theory approach and, through in-depth conversational interviews, focuses on the voices of 35 learners belonging to diverse marginalised communities. Massification and the shifting demographics of learners in higher education have made university spaces a composite of heterogeneous identities. As learners belonging to diverse marginalised social groups began to increasingly navigate campus life, contestations emerged, due to the lack of recognition of these unfamiliar socio-political sensibilities and the emerging alternate discourses within these elite corridors of knowledge. Further, inherent elitism and meritocracy saliently dominating the normative cultural behaviour within the institutions, hindered the participation and inclusion of these learners, resulting in exclusivity and marginalisation in everyday life. As a result, the articulation and voice of learners emerged as acts of resistance and their agency freedom, leading to the emergence of a learner’s identity, an agential and assertive reflection of how learners articulate their self, succumb to or resist marginalisation, get excluded or participate and make choices for their future. Everyday life experiences, determined by learners’ situated articulations of their life course, became a framework explicating and articulating their distinct subjectivities, negotiations, challenges and aspirations. Therefore, learners’ capacity and will to negotiate, resist and persist, against the normativity in practice and processes in higher education, leads to cultivation of their agency freedom.
Dealing with censoring in a network meta-analysis of time-to-event data
Authors: Kalyvas Chrysostomos , Papadimitropoulou Katerina , Malbecq William , Spineli Loukia M.
Published: July 2023

Background

The Health Technology Assessment agencies typically require an economic evaluation considering a lifetime horizon for interventions affecting survival. However, survival data are often censored and are typically analyzed assuming the censoring mechanism independent of the event process. This assumption may lead to biased results when the censoring mechanism is informative.

Methods

We propose a flexible approach to jointly model the participants experiencing an event and censored participants by incorporating the pattern-mixture (PM) model in the fractional polynomial (FP) model within the network meta-analysis (NMA) framework. We introduce the informative censoring hazard ratio parameter that quantifies the departure from the censored at random assumption. The FP-PM model is exemplified in an NMA of the overall survival from non-small cell lung carcinoma studies using Bayesian methods.

Results

The results on hazard ratio and survival from the FP-PM model are similar to those from the FP model. However, the posterior standard deviation of the hazard ratio is slightly greater when censored data are modeled because the uncertainty induced by censoring is naturally accounted for in the FP-PM model. The between-study standard deviation is almost identical in both models due to the low censoring rate across the studies. At the end of the corresponding studies, the informative censoring hazard ratio demonstrated a possible departure from the censored at random assumption for gefitinib and best supportive care.

Conclusions

The proposed method offers a comprehensive sensitivity analysis framework to examine the robustness of the NMA results to clinically plausible censoring scenarios.
A large deletion conferring pale green leaves of maize
Authors: Yao Guoqi , Zhang Hua , Leng Bingying , Cao Bing , Shan Juan , Yan Zhenwei , Guan Haiying , Cheng Wen , Liu Xia , Mu Chunhua
Published: July 2023

Background

The structural basis of chloroplast and the regulation of chloroplast biogenesis remain largely unknown in maize. Gene mutations in these pathways have been linked to the abnormal leaf color phenotype observed in some mutants. Large scale structure variants (SVs) are crucial for genome evolution, but few validated SVs have been reported in maize and little is known about their functions though they are abundant in maize genomes.

Results

In this research, a spontaneous maize mutant, pale green leaf-shandong (pgl-sd), was studied. Genetic analysis showed that the phenotype of pale green leaf was controlled by a recessive Mendel factor mapped to a 156.8-kb interval on the chromosome 1 delineated by molecular markers gy546 and gy548. There were 7 annotated genes in this interval. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR analysis, SV prediction, and de novo assembly of pgl-sd genome revealed that a 137.8-kb deletion, which was verified by Sanger sequencing, might cause the pgl-sd phenotype. This deletion contained 5 annotated genes, three of which, including Zm00001eb031870, Zm00001eb031890 and Zm00001eb031900, were possibly related to the chloroplast development. Zm00001eb031870, encoding a Degradation of Periplasmic Proteins (Deg) homolog, and Zm00001eb031900, putatively encoding a plastid pyruvate dehydrogenase complex E1 component subunit beta (ptPDC-E1-β), might be the major causative genes for the pgl-sd mutant phenotype. Plastid Degs play roles in protecting the vital photosynthetic machinery and ptPDCs provide acetyl-CoA and NADH for fatty acid biosynthesis in plastids, which were different from functions of other isolated maize leaf color associated genes. The other two genes in the deletion were possibly associated with DNA repair and disease resistance, respectively. The pgl-sd mutation decreased contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids by 37.2%, 22.1%, and 59.8%, respectively, and led to abnormal chloroplast. RNA-seq revealed that the transcription of several other genes involved in the structure and function of chloroplast was affected in the mutant.

Conclusions

It was identified that a 137.8-kb deletion causes the pgl-sd phenotype. Three genes in this deletion were possibly related to the chloroplast development, which may play roles different from that of other isolated maize leaf color associated genes.
Plastome evolution and phylogenomic insights into the evolution of Lysimachia (Primulaceae: Myrsinoideae)
Authors: Liu Tong-Jian , Zhang Shu-Yan , Wei Lei , Lin Wei , Yan Hai-Fei , Hao Gang , Ge Xue-Jun
Published: July 2023

Background

LysimachiaL., the second largest genus within the subfamily Myrsinoideae of Primulaceae, comprises approximately 250 species worldwide. China is the species diversity center ofLysimachia, containing approximately 150 species. Despite advances in the backbone phylogeny ofLysimachia, species-level relationships remain poorly understood due to limited genomic information. This study analyzed 50 complete plastomes for 46Lysimachiaspecies. We aimed to identify the plastome structure features and hypervariable loci ofLysimachia. Additionally, the phylogenetic relationships and phylogenetic conflict signals inLysimachiawere examined.

Results

These fifty plastomes withinLysimachiahad the typical quadripartite structure, with lengths varying from 152,691 to 155,784 bp. Plastome size was positively correlated with IR and intron length. Thirteen highly variable regions inLysimachiaplastomes were identified. Additionally,ndhB, petBandycf2were found to be under positive selection. Plastid ML trees and species tree strongly supported thatL. maritimaas sister to subg.Palladia + subg.Lysimachia(Christinae clade), while the nrDNA ML tree clearly placedL. maritimaand subg.Palladiaas a sister group.

Conclusions

The structures of these plastomes ofLysimachiawere generally conserved, but potential plastid markers and signatures of positive selection were detected. These genomic data provided new insights into the interspecific relationships ofLysimachia, including the cytonuclear discordance of the position ofL. maritima, which may be the result of ghost introgression in the past. Our findings have established a basis for further exploration of the taxonomy, phylogeny and evolutionary history withinLysimachia.
Two types of GLR channels cooperate differently in light and dark growth of Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Krzeszowiec Weronika , Lewandowska Aleksandra , Lyczakowski Jan Jakub , Bebko Kateryna , Scholz Sandra S. , Gabryś Halina
Published: July 2023

Background

GLutamate Receptor-like (GLR) channels are multimeric, ionotropic, ligand-gated plant transmembrane receptors. They are homologous to mammalian glutamate receptors, iGLuRs, which are critical to neuronal function. GLRs have been reported several times to play a role in photomorphogenesis. However, to date, no study has looked at the mechanism of their involvement in this process. Here we focused on examining the impact of GLRs on the regulation of early seedling growth in blue light, red light, and in the dark.

Results

Wild type and six photoreceptor mutant seedlings were grown on media supplemented with known iGLuR/GLR channel antagonists: MK-801, which non-competitively blocks NMDA channels in mammalian cells, and CNQX, known for competitive blocking of AMPA channels in mammalian cells. The lengths of hypocotyls and roots were measured in seedlings of phyA, phyB, phot1, phot2, cry1, and cry2 mutants after 7 days of in vitro culture. Changes in growth parameters, both in light and in darkness upon application of chemical antagonists, show that both types of GLR channels, NMDA-like and AMPA-like, are involved in the regulation of seedling growth irrespective of light conditions. Analysis of seedling growth of photoreceptor mutants indicates that the channels are influenced by signaling from phot1, phot2, and cry1. To extend our analysis, we also evaluated the elicitation of a calcium wave, which is likely to be partially driven by GLRs, in Arabidopsis seedlings. The changes in cellobiose-induced calcium waves observed after applying GLR inhibitors suggest that both types of channels likely cooperate in shaping Arabidopsis seedling growth and development.

Conclusions

Our work provides the first experimental evidence that two types of GLR channels function in plants: NMDA-like and AMPA-like. We also demonstrate that the channels are involved in seedling growth and development, at least partially through modulation of calcium signaling, but they are unlikely to play a major role in photomorphogenesis.
Is it really a challenge to find positive attributes for international medical graduates predictive of success in family medicine residency?
Authors: MacFarlane Malcolm M. , Pawliuk Rosemary , Blew Laura
Published: July 2023

In their paper “Challenges with international medical graduate selection: finding positive attributes predictive of success in family medicine residency,” (BMC Prim Care 23(256):2–9, 2022) the authors report on their research into qualitative attributes that positively correspond to success in residency with the objective of assisting in the selection of International Medical Graduate (IMG) residents most likely to achieve success in family medicine residency. The authors found that positive predictors of IMG residents’ success were: presence of a positive attitude, proficient communication skills, high level of clinical knowledge, and trainability. The authors conclude that selecting IMG residents who possess these attributes will result in residents developing increased aptitudes for patient care. A careful reading of the paper raises a number of concerns. MacFarlane (Can Med Educ J 12(4):132–40, 2021) points out that IMGs are already marginalized in the residency selection process. Our concern is that this paper may contribute to this marginalization through a tone of negativity or bias against IMGs and the use of biased language throughout the paper that tends to cast IMGs as being inferior and somehow less well prepared for residency than Canadian Medical Graduates (CMGs). We argue that the proposed predictors are generic and equally relevant to both CMGs and IMGs. In focusing on these predictors in IMGs specifically, the paper appears to imply, without evidence, that IMGs are inadequate in the identified areas. After reviewing the paper’s references, the existing literature, and an analysis of language used, we conclude that IMGs are capable candidates for residency, and that the qualitative attributes outlined in the paper offer little utility for the selection of IMG residents relative to CMG residents.
Urinary N-Acetyl-Beta-D-Glucosaminidase levels predict immunoglobulin a nephropathy remission status
Authors: Liu Xiao , Gong Shaomin , Ning Yichun , Li Yang , Zhou Huili , He Luna , Lin Lin , Jin Shi , Shen Ziyan , Zhu Bowen , Li Fang , Li Jie , Tan Xiao , Jiao Xiaoyan , Shi Yiqin , Ding Xiaoqiang
Published: July 2023

Background

Tubulointerstitial lesions play a pivotal role in the progression of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). Elevated N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) in urine is released from damaged proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTEC) and may serve as a biomarker of renal progression in diseases with tubulointerstitial involvement.

Methods

We evaluated the predictive value of urinary NAG (uNAG) for disease progression in 213 biopsy-proven primary IgAN patients from January 2018 to December 2019 at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University. We compared the results with those of serum cystatin C (sCysC).

Results

Increased uNAG and sCysC levels were associated with worse clinical and histological manifestations. Only uNAG level was independently associated with remission status after adjustment. Patients with high uNAG levels (> 22.32 U/g Cr) had a 4.32-fold greater risk of disease progression. The combination of baseline uNAG and clinical data may achieve satisfactory risk prediction in IgAN patients with relatively preserved renal function (eGFR ≥ 60 ml/min/1.73 m2, area under the curve [AUC] 0.760).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that uNAG is a promising biomarker for predicting IgAN remission status.
Glioma angiogenesis is boosted by ELK3 activating the HIF-1$$\alpha$$/VEGF-A signaling axis
Authors: Yueyang Mou , Yaqin Hu , Guolian Xue , Wenjian Zhao , Yang Jiao , Chen Li , Haiyan Cao , Min Chao , Jianping Deng , Penggao Dai , Hongli Zhu , Liang Wang
Published: July 2023

Background

Clinical studies have shown that first-line use of anti-angiogenetic therapy can prolong progression-free survival but little progress has been made in extending the overall survival of the patients. We explored the role of ELK3 in glioma angiogenesis to improve and design more efficacious therapies.

Methods

A tissue microarray and immunohistochemistry analysis were used to determine the expression of ELK3 protein in 400 glioma patients. Cell proliferation, metastasis, cell cycle, and apoptosis were monitored in U87 and U251 cells using CCK-8, EdU, transwell assays, and flow cytometry. A tube-formation assay, a rat aorta ring sprouting assay, and a matrigel plug assay were performed to examine the antiangiogenic activity of ELK3. An ELISA, Western blot, and correlation analysis of the CGGA dataset were used to detect the association between ELK3 and VEGF-A or ELK3 and HIF-1$$\alpha$$
α
. Besides, orthotopic transplantation in nude mice and histopathological and immunological analysis of in vitro tumors were used to explore the effect of ELK3 on tumor progression and median survival.

Results

ELK3 was upregulated in glioma tissues and associated with a poor prognosis. In vitro, ELK3 promoted cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, induced metastasis, and suppressed apoptosis. Then, silencing ELK3 inhibited VEGF-A expression and secretion by facilitating HIF-1$$\alpha$$
α
degradation via ubiquitination. Finally, knockdown ELK3 inhibited tumor progression and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, as well as prolonged nude mice’s median survival.

Conclusions

Our findings first evidenced that ELK3 is crucial for glioma because it promotes angiogenesis by activating the HIF-1$$\alpha$$
α
/VEGF-A signaling axis. Therefore, we suggest that ELK3 is a prognostic marker with a great potential for glioma angiogenesis and ELK3-targeted therapeutic strategies might hold promise in improving the efficacy of anti-angiogenic therapies.
Efficacy of second-line chemotherapy or immune checkpoint inhibitors for patients with a prolonged objective response (≥ 6 months) after first-line therapy for recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a retrospective study
Authors: Vienne Agathe , Collet Laetitia , Chevalier Thomas , Borel Christian , Tardy Magalie , Huguet Florence , Richard Sandrine , Salas Sebastien , Saada-Bouzid Esma , Fayette Jerome , Daste Amaury
Published: July 2023

Background

Patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M-HNSCC) have a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are effective in patients with tumor progression < 6 months following first-line, platinum-based chemotherapy (PBC), but data are missing for patients with progression ≥ 6 months after the last platinum dose.

Methods

Retrospective analysis (six French centers, 2008–2019) of all consecutive R/M-HNSCC patients. treated first-line with PBC and tumor progression ≥ 6 months after the last platinum dose. Primary endpoint: progression-free survival after second-line therapy (PFS2). Additional endpoints: overall survival from Day 1 of first-line (OS1) and second-line (OS2) therapy.

Results

R/M-HNSCC patients (n = 144) received cisplatinum (n = 67, 47%) or carboplatinum (n = 77, 53%) first-line. Response after first-line: complete response (CR; n = 16, 11%); partial response (PR; n = 77, 53%); stable disease (n = 22, 15%). Second-line therapy: PBC (n = 95, 66%); platinum-free regimen (PFR) (n = 25, 17%); ICI (n = 24, 17%). Median [95% confidence interval] PFS (months): PBC 5.0 [3.8–6.2]; PFR 4.0 [1–7.0]; ICI 2.0 [0.4–3.6] (p = 0.16). For PBC, PFR, and ICI, respectively: OS1 30, 23, and 29 months (p = 1.02); OS2 14, 10, and 16 months (p = 0.25); PR, 26%, 16%, and 21% patients; CR, 0%, 8%, and 4% patients. For subsequent lines, ICIs were administered for PBC (n = 11, 12%) and PFR (n = 2, 8%). No predictive factor for efficacy (PFS, OS) was identified.

Conclusions

Our retrospective study suggests similar efficacy regarding OS2 for second-line chemotherapy or ICI in R/M-HNSCC patients with progression ≥ 6 months after the last first-line platinum dose.
A necroptosis-related gene signature to predict prognosis and immune features in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Jinpeng , Yuan Enwu
Published: July 2023

Background and Aim

Necroptosis plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, recurrence, and immunotherapy tolerance. We aimed to build a new prognostic necroptosis-related gene signature that could be used for survival and immunotherapy prediction in HCC patients.

Methods

We found that necroptosis was associated with HCC progression and survival outcomes and was involved in the immune infiltration of HCC. Multiple bioinformatics methods including WGCNA, LASSO-Cox regression, stepwise Cox regression, and Random Forest and Boruta model analysis, were used to establish a prognostic profile related to necroptosis. The necroptosis-related gene signature was validated in ICGC and GSE14520 datasets.

Results

This five-gene signature showed excellent predictive performance and was an independent risk factor for patients’ overall survival outcome in the three cohorts. Moreover, this signature was an exact predictor using fewer genes than previous gene signatures. Finally, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining investigations were performed in previously collected fresh frozen tumor tissues from HCC patients and their paracancerous normal tissues, and the results were consistent with the bioinformatics results. We found that LGALS3 not only affected the proliferation and migration ability of HepG2 cells but also affected necroptosis and the expression of inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

In summary, we established and validated an individualized prognostic profile related to necroptosis to forecast the therapeutic response to immune therapy, which might offer a potential non-apoptotic therapeutic target for HCC patients.
Combined central serous chorioretinopathy, hypermetropia, short axial length, chorioretinal folds, enlarged/thickened ocular coats, with varying association of scleral changes (CHAFES)
Authors: Downes Susan M , Mall Sonia P , Al-Khuzaei Saoud , Chadha Rasmeet , Gibson Andrew , Chong Victor , Bird Alan C.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To describe a condition with the following features: chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CCSC), chorioretinal folds, scleral changes (including any of the following flattened or ‘squared off’ posterior pole, ‘T sign’, or thickened ocular coats), accompanied by a short axial length and hypermetropia in a series of 7 patients.

Methods

The case notes of 7 patients presenting with a combination of CSC, choroidal folds scleral changes and hypermetropia were reviewed as part of a retrospective case series. Corrected visual acuities, serial refraction, colour imaging, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography findings, together with B-ultrasound scan features were recorded, with axial length measurements as available (< 23.3 mm was defined as short).

Results

The study included 14 eyes of 7 subjects (2 females and 5 males) with a primary presentation of central vision disturbance. All patients showed signs of previous or current episodes of the following features in at least one eye: CSC (5/7 bilateral); choroidal folds (6/7 bilateral), thickening of ocular coats in the 5 in whom this was measured, at least one scleral abnormality on ultrasound in at least one eye. A short axial length at final appointment was recorded in 13/14 eyes.

Conclusions and relevance

The combination of CCSC with choroidal folds, hypermetropia with apparent shortening of the eyeball associated with one or more scleral abnormalities such as a flattened or ‘squared off ‘appearance of the B ultrasound may be a specific ocular condition. The aetiology of this particular combination of posterior segment manifestations is unknown; the choroid could be the primary focus of disease with secondary involvement of the sclera. Alternatively, the features observed may result from a chronic inflammatory process affecting the sclera with secondary effects on the choroid, retinal pigment epithelium and retina. In our case series, the final vision was not significantly different from vision at presentation.
Migration integration policies as social determinants of health for highly educated immigrants in the United States
Authors: Naseh Mitra , Zeng Yingying , Rai Abha , Sutherland Ian , Yoon Hyunwoo
Published: July 2023

Highly educated immigrants are part of the growing population of immigrants who are impacted by the increasingly hostile migration policies in the U.S. This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach and inductive reasoning to explore the possible impacts of migration integration policies as social determinants of health among this group. Data was collected through 31 semi-structured interviewees with highly educated immigrants who had an intention and interest to stay in the U.S. at the time of the interview. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and four main themes emerged: (1) a life overshadowed by silent worries, (2) living through uncertainties and forced decisions as the result of migration integration policies, (3) complexities and challenges of living on a work visa, and (4) shared recommendations by interviewees. Documented narratives as part of this study suggest high rates of stress and anxiety as well as negative mental and physical health outcomes among the participants. Results also suggest high levels of internalized vulnerabilities. Participants shared that migration policies can be enhanced in the U.S. to support highly educated immigrants’ growth by creating a better and more transparent communication system, replacing random review processes for applications with systematic procedures, creating expedited pathways to citizenship based on merit, and granting access to work as a basic human right.
A rare giant geode of humeral head in an uncontrolled rheumatoid arthritis: a case report
Authors: Pirola Fernanda Junqueira Cesar , Dório Murillo , Fuller Ricardo , Cobra Jayme Fogagnolo , Sales Lucas Peixoto , Figueiredo Camille Pinto
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease depicted by peripheral bone erosive damage leading to joint destruction, deformity and functional impairment. Shoulder involvement is less frequent than hands, wrists and feet, and relevant joint damage may be underdiagnosed if a lower threshold for careful analysis of this joint is not settled, especially in uncontrolled disease.

Case Report

A 70-year-old male with a difficult-to-manage RA since 2010, presenting severe shoulder arthritis with MRI showing a striking giant geode in the left humeral head.

Conclusion

An impressive MRI image showing a giant geode in poorly controlled RA should alert rheumatologists to raise suspicion of shoulder involvement for early investigation and treatment.
Measurement properties of the short version of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) for individuals with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: da Silva Júnior José Edson França , Dibai-Filho Almir Vieira , Santos Inaê Silva , Protázio Jhonata Botelho , Júnior José Djalma Arrais , de Oliveira Daniella Dias , dos Santos Patrícia Gabrielle , Fidelis-de-Paula-Gomes Cid André
Published: July 2023

Background

Assessment instruments play an essential role in the management of knee osteoarthritis. This study aimed to verify the clinimetric properties and validate the short version of WOMAC’s (SV-WOMAC) knee with two domains, pain (four items) and physical function (eight items) in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KO).

Methods

Reliability and internal consistency Construct, criterion validity, Ceiling, and floor effects analyses were performed. In addition to the SV-WOMAC, the following instruments were used: the numerical rating scale (NRPS), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and WOMAC’s original version. Spearman’s correlation coefficient (rho) was used to determine the magnitude of the correlation between the AFAQ and the other instruments. Moreover, the test–retest reliability and internal consistency were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s alpha, respectively. In addition, standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable change (MDC) were calculated.

Results

One hundred and thirteen subjects with KO were included for validity analysis, and a subsample of 53 subjects was used for test-retest reliability. Adequate reliability and internal consistency were observed with ICC ≥ 0.76, SEM ≤ 1.85, MDC ≥ 5.1, and Cronbach’s alpha ≥ 0.84. Regarding construct validity, correlations greater than 0.50 were observed with the IKDC, NRPS, and functional domains of the SF-36. The SV-WOMAC showed a correlation > 0.70 with the original version and did not show ceiling and floor effects.

Conclusion

The SV-WOMAC knee has adequate measurement properties to analyze pain and physical function in Brazilian individuals with KO.