bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Politics of Government–Business Relations in Urban Southeast Asia: Introduction and Overview
Authors: Hutchcroft Paul D. , Aspinall Edward , Weiss Meredith L. , Hicken Allen
Published: July 2024

Recognising the increasingly urban character of Southeast Asian politics, our introduction to this special issue explores the varied patterns of government–business relations found across the region. In some urban centres, businesses form collusive rent-seeking relations with mayors and other politicians; in others, they support governance reform and urban renewal. In beginning to unpick this variation, we briefly highlight what we can learn from literatures on national-level government–business relations and subnational politics – emphasising that local-level government–business relations commonly diverge in significant ways from those at the national level. Next, we survey the articles that follow through three themes: relative strengths of local government and business across distinct urban settings; changes over time in the presence and efficacy of development coalitions spanning government and business; and recent innovations in government–business ties in certain cities. We end by calling for increased research into this important but poorly understood topic.
Navigating AP Research: Unveiling Applied Technology High School Students’ Perspectives, Gains, and Challenges
Authors: Al Noursi Omar
Published: July 2024

This study explores the sense of efficacy, perceptions of benefits, and concerns among high school students participating in an AP Research course during the 2021–2022 academic year. The investigation includes an evaluation of students’ satisfaction with course materials and delivery. Data, gathered through surveys and individual essays, underwent analysis to assess improvements in students’ research efficacy and overall satisfaction. The findings reveal that, despite encountering challenges, most students demonstrated notable improvement and expressed satisfaction with the course's pedagogical approach. Identified benefits include enhanced critical thinking, improved research skills, and increased confidence in conducting independent research projects. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness and impact of the AP Research program on student learning and engagement. To build on these insights, further research is recommended to explore best practices for optimizing student experiences and outcomes in AP Research.
Recent Development of a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Stixis suaveolens (Roxb.) Pierre: Its Botany, Ethnomedicine, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology
Authors: Chen Tran Van , Nghia Nguyen Trong , Thi Thu Hien Nguyen
Published: July 2024

Background/Objective

Plant-based products and their isolated compounds have been utilized in traditional medicine since early times. In folk medicine, Stixis suaveolens (Roxb.) Pierre has been used to treat painful tendons and bones, rheumatism, eye infections, cough, malaria, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to summarize up-to-date botany, ethnomedicine, phytochemical components, pharmacological effects, and toxicology.

Methods

Information on S. suaveolens was collected from databases such as the Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer, and others.

Results

S. suaveolens has been demonstrated to possess various pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antidepressant, antidiarrheal, hepatoprotective, analgesic, antihemolytic, and thrombolytic activities. Phytochemical studies of this species have revealed the presence of secondary metabolites, including lignans, phenolics, alkaloids, and volatile components.

Conclusion

The pharmacological effects of the extracts and bioactive compounds resulting from the experimental studies in the review support the traditional uses of S. suaveolens. They could be useful in developing novel pharmacological applications in the treatment of various acute and chronic human ailments. The efficacy, safety, and toxicity of S. suaveolens plant in enhancing therapeutic efficacy should be investigated widely in further studies.
Ripe Musa sapientum Peels Exhibit Neuroprotection Against Lead Acetate-Induced Brain Damage in Wistar Rats
Authors: Inwang Uduak Anthony , Ben Ezekiel Etim , Uchewa Obinna Onwe , Umoh Ekementeabasi Aniebo , Nwaji Azubuike Raphael
Published: July 2024

Objective: Human health has continued to be at risk from lead exposure. This study explored the antioxidative potential of ethanol extract of ripe Musa sapientum peels to protect against lead acetate-induced neuronal insult in female wistar rats. Methods: Thirty adult female rats (120-160 g) were randomly divided into six groups (n = 5): Group 1 (control group) received 10 mL/kg of distilled water; Group 2 received 100 mg/kg lead acetate. Group 3 received 2.5 mg/kg of donepezil. Groups 4 to 6 received 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg ethanol extract of ripe M sapientum, respectively, via oral gavage. Groups 2 to 5 were co-treated with 100 mg/kg lead acetate for 21 days. Neurobehavioral parameter, biochemical and histological analyses of the hippocampus were determined. Recognition memory was evaluated using Novel Object Recognition Test. Results: There was a significant ( p < 0.05) increase in total exploration, discrimination index, and percentage alternation in the ethanol extract M sapientum-treated groups compared with the lead acetate-induced group. M sapientum ethanol extract and dopamine significantly ( p < 0.05) reduced acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE) and malondialdehyde (MDA) activities in a dose-dependent manner and significantly ( p < 0.05) increased superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) dose dependently, respectively. In the histopathological analysis of the hippocampal area, there were mild vacuolation (V), mild degeneration as well as mild granular cell atrophy in the treated groups, suggesting that M sapientum may have neuroprotective properties. Conclusion: Ethanol extract of ripe M sapientum peels enhanced cognitive functions and may be beneficial in preventing neurodegenerative disorders via antioxidant mechanism.
Empowered Evangelism in Medicalized Cultures: A Second Response to Craig Keener
Authors: Brown Candy Gunther
Published: July 2024

This article responds to Craig Keener’s closing article in a special issue, originating with a Holy Spirit Symposium, Center for the Study of the Work and Ministry of the Holy Spirit Today, Biola University, October 27, 2023. Keener argues that the Holy Spirit empowers the church for cross-cultural evangelism through the spiritual gifts of tongues and prophecy. My response asks what empowered evangelism looks like in medicalized cultures like that of the United States. I argue that the church can more effectively cross the cultural barriers of medical science by learning to prophesy in “medical tongues”—communicating the gospel in the language, and backed by the evidence, of medical science. It is insufficient for Christians to testify to miracles; the church also needs to make it a priority to document miracles medically.
Organizing Foresight Tools
Authors: Spaniol Matthew J.
Published: July 2024

Futures and foresight tools support strategy work by structuring inquiry into- and generating information about the user’s uncertain operating environment. Each tool accomplishes this differently, making their selection non-trivial. Scholars have recommended that tools be organized for selection based on criteria such as the nature of inquiry they generate, the resources needed for their implementation, their input or data transformation affordances, the content they produce, or their temporal directionality. In practice, foresight tools are selected by actors under constrained circumstances. With the aim to improve the impact of foresight investments, a selection schema is developed that shortlists tools by how each generates relevant knowledge for solving the user’s problem across a landscape (locus and level) of uncertainty. The paper reports on initial field tests, the resulting refinements to the schema, and proposes a diagnostic protocol for its operationalization. The paper concludes by offering suggestions for leveraging the schema in firms, consulting, and teaching.
The Social and Spatial Mismatch of Women Returning From Jail Contexts: An Intersectional Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Roddy Ariel L.
Published: July 2024

Seminal work on spatial mismatch has shown that geographic isolation from job-rich areas resulted in unemployment for low-income women of color. Though social capital is a critical component of the job search for justice-involved individuals, justice-involved women of color may have unique barriers to accessing social capital related to spatial mismatch. This concurrent mixed-methods study addresses the interconnections of race, economic opportunity, social capital, and employment for a sample of 56 women returning from jail contexts. Results reveal racialized differences in the mobilization of social capital to address the spatial mismatch problem, identifying a source of inequity for women of color leaving carceral settings.
Factors affecting decreased walking ability in patients with conservatively treated fragility fracture of the pelvic ring
Authors: Kokubo Yasuo , Nakajima Hideaki , Izubuchi Yuya , Matsumine Akihiko
Published: July 2024

Background: The clinical results of conservative treatment in correctly selected patients with fragility fracture of the pelvis are acceptable. However, there is a loss of social and physical independence and autonomy. This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with decreased walking ability in patients with conservatively treated fragility fractures of the pelvis. Methods: Overall, 124 patients aged >70 years were included. Fragility fracture of the pelvis was classified according to the Rommens classification. Walking ability before and 1 year after injury was assessed using the Functional Ambulation Category. Results: The overall recovery rate of walking ability of conservatively treated patients to the preinjury state was 73%, one year after injury. The presence of cancer and > four-week bed rest were determinants of decreased walking ability one year after injury. Conclusions: The presence of cancer and more than four-week bed rest were risk factors for a significant decrease in walking ability.
Penile Replantation: A Review of Microsurgical Techniques, Patient Outcomes, and Solutions to Complex Reconstructive Challenges
Authors: Arbel Eylon J. , Reese Alyssa D. , Richards Raymond , Singh Simran , O’Shea Aidan W. , Hennig Finn , Abramowitz David
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Penile amputation is a rare urological emergency with varying etiologies, ranging from psychiatric disorders to traumatic injuries, and requires precise microsurgical replantation techniques to restore function and appearance. The popularization of microsurgery has greatly improved outcomes by enabling accurate vascular and nerve reattachments, which are crucial for erectile function and sensation. This comprehensive study reviews advancements in microsurgical penile replantation, perioperative, and postoperative care, focusing on the nuances of surgical interventions and potential complications such as ischemia and necrosis. Methods: The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases, were queried for studies published between 2015 and 2023 that discussed preoperative conditions, surgical techniques, and postoperative outcomes in penile replantation cases. Resulting studies that reported preoperative and postoperative outcomes of at least one case of penile replantation after amputation were included. Case parameters of interest were then extracted and categorized to determine the most common complications as well as solutions utilized in penile replantation. Results: Our findings from 46 cases across 37 studies revealed a common occurrence of postoperative necrosis (56.5%) and highlighted the importance of timely vascular reconnection and innovative surgical strategies to manage complications. Three cases were complicated by scrotal hematomas and 23 cases reported at least one psychiatric comorbidity. Some innovative solutions mentioned include hyperbaric oxygen therapy, laser angiography, leech therapy, PDE inhibitors, and penile splints. Conclusion: The outcomes suggest a critical need for standardized protocols and further research into optimizing techniques and therapies to enhance the success rates as well as quality of life post-replantation. This review aims to guide future practices and encourage collaborative efforts to refine the complex microsurgical procedures involved in penile replantation.
A Community-Guided Approach to Bronchiolitis: A Needs Assessment and Illness Perception Study
Authors: Rivera-Sepulveda Andrea , Hakim Monica , Aronson Lauren , Glass Todd F. , Blake Kathryn , Alexander Kenneth , Schrimshaw Eric W.
Published: July 2024

The factors influencing caregivers’ understanding of pediatric respiratory diseases, such as bronchiolitis, can guide patient care and the acceptability of treatment methods within the healthcare system. This study aims to identify illness perceptions and perform a needs assessment among caregivers of children diagnosed with respiratory diseases. This is a prospective, cross-sectional, questionnaire-driven study of a representative sample of caregivers whose children had an acute respiratory illness. The telephone-administered questionnaire was comprised of (1) demographic items; (2) illness perception questionnaire-revised (IPQ-R); and (3) items about personal barriers, the latter 2 of which employed a 5-point Likert response. Cronbach's alpha ( α) was used to measure the internal consistency reliability for each item within the IPQ-R. The Pearson 2-tailed correlation coefficient was used to correlate questionnaire items. We included 75 caregivers whose children have been diagnosed with bronchiolitis (51%), reactive airway disease (RAD) (35%), asthma (33%), and wheezing (44%). We found no significance between the child's diagnosis and the site of recruitment. The most important components of the illness perception were illness coherence ( α=0.849), psychological attributions ( α=0.903), and barriers to diagnosis ( α=0.633). Understanding caregivers’ perceptions of respiratory diseases will lead to better treatment acceptance. We must clarify the terms used to define bronchiolitis from viral-induced wheezing, RAD, and the first asthma episode in older infants. Identifying caregivers’ gaps in knowledge will help establish a cohesive approach to personalized treatment of respiratory diseases in children and their diagnosis.
Overture Point of Interest data for the United Kingdom: A comprehensive, queryable open data product, validated against Geolytix supermarket data
Authors: Ballantyne Patrick , Berragan Cillian
Published: July 2024

Point of Interest data that is globally available, open access and of good quality is sparse, despite being important inputs for research in a number of application areas. New data from the Overture Maps Foundation offers significant potential in this arena, but accessing the data relies on computational resources beyond the skillset and capacity of the average researcher. In this article, we provide a processed version of the Overture places (POI) dataset for the UK, in a fully queryable format, and provide accompanying code through which to explore the data, and generate other national subsets. In the article, we describe the construction and characteristics of this new open data product, before evaluating its quality in relation to ISO standards, through direct comparison with Geolytix supermarket data. This dataset can support new and important research projects in a variety of different thematic areas, and foster a network of researchers to further evaluate its advantages and limitations, through validation against other well-established datasets from domains external to retail.
Modified Weaver Dunn Versus Ligamentous Reconstruction Grafts in Chronic Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies
Authors: Daher Mohammad , Ghoul Ali , Farhat Charbel , Boufadel Peter , Fares Mohamad Y , El Hassan Bassem , Abboud Joseph A
Published: July 2024

Background

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint trauma is a frequent sports injury. Modified Weaver Dunn (MWD) is a commonly used technique to address this injury. However, tendinous grafts (Autogenous Palmaris Longus or Semitendinosus tendons) are increasingly being used due to the biologic weakness of MWD.

Methods

Three search was done until January 2024 with data extraction consisting of adverse events (infections and failures), Constant-Murley score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and postoperative coracoclavicular distance.

Results

Four studies were included in this metaanalysis. Tendinous graft was shown to have statistically better ASES and Constant-Murley scores. Furthermore, there were no difference in adverse events, and postoperative coracoclavicular distance.

Conclusion

The tendinous graft showed no differences in adverse events, and postoperative coracoclavicular distance when compared to modified Weaver Dunn. However, it showed higher postoperative ASES and Constant-Murley score without analysis of the minimal clinical important difference making the difference solely statistical.

Level of evidence

3.
Accessible nature: Balancing contradiction in protected areas
Authors: Kling Kristin Godtman
Published: July 2024

Physical and social barriers have long hindered people with disabilities from full participation in outdoor recreation and nature experiences. As spending time in nature, where protected areas constitute an important arena for nature engagement, is increasingly connected to improved health and well-being, there is a need for nature activities and experiences in protected areas to become more accessible and inclusive. However, the provision of accessible protected areas for outdoor recreation and nature activities poses challenges for planners and managers of such areas, as there are elements of contradiction between interests of accessibility and nature conservation. This qualitative study examines how providers of nature experiences and outdoor activities, such as governmental authorities, outdoor recreation associations and nature-based tourism entrepreneurs in Sweden view and practice the balancing of these interests, through perspectives of the social construction of nature, inclusion, and collaboration. Findings indicate that interests in nature conservation generally take precedence over measures of accessibility and that such initiatives are directed to a few, designated areas. There is also an apparent lack of knowledge about how people with disabilities wish to engage with nature, which hinders full access to nature. It is therefore important to include people with disabilities in the process of developing accessibility in protected areas and promote collaboration between stakeholders, to avoid excluding decisions. The study concludes by stating the necessity to challenge the viewpoint of accessible infrastructure for outdoor activities in protected areas as ‘ruining’ the nature experience, in order for access to nature to become a truly democratic right.
Against the promethean: Energy throughput and the far-right politics of degrowth
Authors: Forchtner Bernhard , Olsen Jonathan
Published: July 2024

While criticism of growth by a diverse but overall left-leaning degrowth spectrum has become increasingly prominent, less is known about degrowth stances by far-right actors. While the far right is regularly viewed as ‘productivist’ and tied to fossil fuels, we point to a more complex relationship, taking the German New Right eco-magazine Die Kehre as a case study. Drawing on Bakhtin's concept of chronotope (time–space configuration), we identify two chronotopes, the promethean and the idyllic, with their interaction giving rise to a far-right degrowth stance. The promethean (rejected) signifies environmental destruction and consumerist ways of living. The idyllic (affirmed) posits a reduction in energy throughput, small-scale production/exchange, limits and the building of ‘rooted’ communities. Our analysis provides original conceptualization and one of the first comprehensive accounts of the far-right politics of degrowth. Thus, we raise awareness of how particularistic and non-universal criticisms of growth and capitalism can partly overlap with better known degrowth positions.
Innovating visitor research within museums: Concepts, tools and practices
Authors: Pierroux Palmyre
Published: July 2024

Increasing demands on museums for visitor insights, theoretical shifts in the learning sciences, the embeddedness of multimodal media in museums and society, and advancements in data visualisation tools and web-based applications are all clear calls for innovating visitor research in museums. In this article, I describe how concepts from multimodal and sociocultural research help shift the analytical lens for understanding and studying connections between visitor behaviours, social interactions and engagement in exhibitions. The following question is explored: In which ways can multimodal theory and the learning sciences inform the design and use of new visitor research tools and methods that are relevant for museum practice? A case study from a university-museum research partnership illustrates how multimodal and sociocultural perspectives from the humanities and learning sciences, respectively, merged in the development of a new tool to enhance and innovate visitor research within museums.
Evaluation of primary frequency regulation in Dominican Republic mine using scooptrams and electric trucks as battery storage systems
Authors: Aybar-Mejía Miguel , José Del Orbe Arismendy , Durán García José Gabriel , Mariano-Hernández Deyslen , Jiménez Matos Elvin Arnaldo , Sbriz-Zeitun Giuseppe , Domínguez Garabitos Máximo Alberto , Mercedes Jesús
Published: July 2024

The use of electric vehicles in the mining sector aligns with the growing demand for tools that reduce energy consumption in productive processes. This study investigates how electric mining vehicles with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology can be integrated into power grids to improve system stability and frequency regulation. In the context of mining operations and the provision of auxiliary services (such as primary frequency regulation) to an interconnected electrical system, a regulatory framework that enables V2G integration should be established. This issue is addressed through a case study involving DIgSILENT PowerFactory simulations. The goal is to evaluate the productive process of a mine and the contribution of V2G technology to the primary frequency regulation of the electrical system under different scooptram integration parameters and battery electric trucks. This study also explores the challenges of V2G implementation in the absence of a regulatory framework. Different configurations of electric scooptrams and shovel that can affect frequency regulation are assessed. The obtained optimal configuration involves two truck loaders and three shovel loaders; the capacity of the current electrical infrastructure can support this configuration without affecting the capacity of the mine's electrical system. The simulations verify that applying V2G technology to mining vehicles helps stabilise the frequency of electrical systems and reduces the probability of component failure.
The Impact of Project Managers’ Psychological Resilience on Adaptive Performance: A Multilevel Model
Authors: Ren Xu , Xu Siyi , Yu Jin , Lin Fanghong
Published: July 2024

Facilitating project teams and members’ adaptive performance is becoming increasingly important in times of crisis. This study establishes a multilevel model investigating how project managers’ psychological resilience influences adaptive performance. The researchers collected questionnaires from 59 project managers and 529 team members, respectively, to conduct empirical analysis. Findings validate the positive effect that project managers’ psychological resilience has on adaptive performance, the mediating impact of positive emotions, and the boundary role of stakeholder support. This study provides valuable practical suggestions on project management in crises.
Clinical outcomes after idecabtagene vicleucel in older patients with multiple myeloma: a multicenter real-world experience
Authors: Kalariya Nilesh M. , Hildebrandt Michelle A. T. , Hansen Doris K. , Sidana Surbhi , Khouri Jack , Ferreri Christopher J. , Doyle William N. , Castaneda-Puglianini Omar , Freeman Ciara L. , Hovanky Vanna , Hosoya Hitomi , Shune Leyla O. , Patel Krina K.
Published: July 2024

The safety and efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy is not well described in older patients, a population that has higher frailty and comorbidities. In this multicenter retrospective study, we evaluated clinical outcomes along with frailty and geriatric characteristics such as comorbidities, polypharmacy, falls, neuropathy, organ dysfunction, and performance status in younger (aged <65 years) vs older (aged ≥65 years) patients who received commercial idecabtagene vicleucel (ide-cel). A total of 156 patients (n = 75, aged ≥65 years) were infused with ide-cel by data cutoff. In older patients (median age: 69 years; range, 65-83; 66.7% frail; 77.3% did not meet KarMMa eligibility criteria), with a median follow-up duration of 14.2 months, best overall response rate (ORR) was 86.7%, which was comparable with pivotal KarMMa study results (ORR: 73%). Median progression-free survival and overall survival in older patients were 9.1 months and 26.5 months, respectively. Grade ≥3 cytokine-release syndrome and immune effector cell–associated neurotoxicity syndrome were observed in 1% and 4% of older patients, respectively. Compared with younger patients, the older patients had significantly higher prevalence of frailty, geriatric characteristics such as polypharmacy (≥5 drugs; 97%), ≥4 comorbidities (69%), and organ dysfunction (35%; P < .05). The safety and efficacy of ide-cel therapy were similar in younger and older patients. Frailty and geriatric characteristics such as polypharmacy, comorbidities, and organ dysfunction in older patients did not confer an inferior overall outcome.
Remaining Useful Life for Heavy-Duty Railway Cast Steel Knuckles Based on Crack Growth Behavior with Hypothetical Distributions
Authors: Wang Chao , Zhu Tao , Yang Bing , Xiao Shoune , Yang Guangwu
Published: July 2024

The current research on the integrity of critical structures of rail vehicles mainly focuses on the design stage, which needs an effective method for assessing the service state. This paper proposes a framework for predicting the remaining useful life (RUL) of in-service structures with and without visible cracks. The hypothetical distribution and delay time models were used to apply the equivalent crack growth life data of heavy-duty railway cast steel knuckles, which revealed the evolution characteristics of the crack length and life scores of the knuckle under different fracture failure modes. The results indicate that the method effectively predicts the RUL of service knuckles in different failure modes based on the cumulative failure probability curves for different locations and surface crack lengths. This study proposes an RUL prediction framework that supports the dynamic overhaul and state maintenance of knuckle fatigue cracks.
Elevated cytokine levels in the central nervous system of cluster headache patients in bout and in remission
Authors: Ran Caroline , Olofsgård Felicia Jennysdotter , Wellfelt Katrin , Steinberg Anna , Belin Andrea Carmine
Published: July 2024

Background

Cluster headache is characterized by activation of the trigeminovascular pathway with subsequent pain signalling in the meningeal vessels, and inflammation has been suggested to play a role in the pathophysiology. To further investigate inflammation in cluster headache, inflammatory markers were analysed in patients with cluster headache and controls.

Methods

We performed a case–control study, collecting cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples from healthy controls, cluster headache patients in remission, active bout, and during an attack to cover the dynamic range of the cluster headache phenotype. Inflammatory markers were quantified using Target 48 OLINK cytokine panels.

Results

Altered levels of several cytokines were found in patients with cluster headache compared to controls. CCL8, CCL13, CCL11, CXCL10, CXCL11, HGF, MMP1, TNFSF10 and TNFSF12 levels in cerebrospinal fluid were comparable in active bout and remission, though significantly higher than in controls. In serum samples, CCL11 and CXCL11 displayed decreased levels in patients. Only one cytokine, IL-13 was differentially expressed in serum during attacks.

Conclusion and interpretation

Our data shows signs of possible neuroinflammation occurring in biological samples from cluster headache patients. Increased cerebrospinal fluid cytokine levels are detectable in active bout and during remission, indicating neuroinflammation could be considered a marker for cluster headache and is unrelated to the different phases of the disorder.
Transcription factor binding specificities of the oomycete Phytophthora infestans reflect conserved and divergent evolutionary patterns and predict function
Authors: Vo Nguyen N. T. , Yang Ally , Leesutthiphonchai Wiphawee , Liu Yulong , Hughes Timothy R. , Judelson Howard S.
Published: July 2024

Background

Identifying the DNA-binding specificities of transcription factors (TF) is central to understanding gene networks that regulate growth and development. Such knowledge is lacking in oomycetes, a microbial eukaryotic lineage within the stramenopile group. Oomycetes include many important plant and animal pathogens such as the potato and tomato blight agent Phytophthora infestans, which is a tractable model for studying life-stage differentiation within the group.

Results

Mining of the P. infestans genome identified 197 genes encoding proteins belonging to 22 TF families. Their chromosomal distribution was consistent with family expansions through unequal crossing-over, which were likely ancient since each family had similar sizes in most oomycetes. Most TFs exhibited dynamic changes in RNA levels through the P. infestans life cycle. The DNA-binding preferences of 123 proteins were assayed using protein-binding oligonucleotide microarrays, which succeeded with 73 proteins from 14 families. Binding sites predicted for representatives of the families were validated by electrophoretic mobility shift or chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Consistent with the substantial evolutionary distance of oomycetes from traditional model organisms, only a subset of the DNA-binding preferences resembled those of human or plant orthologs. Phylogenetic analyses of the TF families within P. infestans often discriminated clades with canonical and novel DNA targets. Paralogs with similar binding preferences frequently had distinct patterns of expression suggestive of functional divergence. TFs were predicted to either drive life stage-specific expression or serve as general activators based on the representation of their binding sites within total or developmentally-regulated promoters. This projection was confirmed for one TF using synthetic and mutated promoters fused to reporter genes in vivo.

Conclusions

We established a large dataset of binding specificities for P. infestans TFs, representing the first in the stramenopile group. This resource provides a basis for understanding transcriptional regulation by linking TFs with their targets, which should help delineate the molecular components of processes such as sporulation and host infection. Our work also yielded insight into TF evolution during the eukaryotic radiation, revealing both functional conservation as well as diversification across kingdoms.
Significant liver histological change is common in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B with normal ALT
Authors: Duan Menghui , Xiao Huanming , Shi Meijie , Xie Yubao , Zhao Pengtao , Li Sheng , Chi Xiaoling , Liu Xueen , Zhuang Hui
Published: July 2024

Background and aims

Numerous HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with persistently normal ALT have significant liver histopathology. It is imperative to identify true “immune tolerant” patients. We aimed to evaluate the liver histopathology features of HBeAg-positive CHB patients with normal ALT and the incidence of liver cirrhosis and HCC in CHB patients during follow-up.

Methods

179 HBeAg-positive CHB patients with normal ALT who performed liver biopsy from 2009 to 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Liver necroinflammation ≥ G2 and/or liver fibrosis ≥ S2 was defined as significant liver histopathological change.

Results

57.5% patients were in the indeterminate phase with significant liver histological changes. The proportion of the patients with evident liver necroinflammation was higher in the high-normal ALT group (21-40U/L) when compared with the low-normal ALT group (≤ 20 U/L) (51.3% vs. 30.0%, p < 0.05), and patients aged ≥ 40 years had a higher proportion of significant fibrosis than those aged < 40 years (64.5% vs. 39.9%, p < 0.05). The percentages of patients with ≥ S2 and ≥ G2/S2 in the HBV DNA < 107 IU/mL group were higher than those in the HBV DNA ≥ 107 IU/mL group (72.7% vs. 40.1%, p < 0.01; 81.8% vs. 54.1%, p < 0.05). During follow-up, two of immune tolerant patients and four of indeterminate patients developed into cirrhosis, and one of immune tolerant patients and one of indeterminate patients developed into HCC, respectively.

Conclusions

HBeAg-positive CHB patients with high-normal ALT or HBV DNA < 107 IU/mL were tend to be indeterminate. Liver biopsy or noninvasive approaches are recommended to evaluate liver histopathology, and antiviral therapy is recommended for patients with significant liver histopathology.
Gut microbiota and metabolic changes in children with idiopathic short stature
Authors: Yan Luyan , Ye Bin , Yang Min , Shan Yongsheng , Yan Dan , Fang DanFeng , Zhang Kaichuang , Yu Yongguo
Published: July 2024

Background

Idiopathic short stature (ISS) is characterized by short stature with unknown causes. Recent studies showed different gut microbiota flora and reduced fecal short-chain fatty acids in ISS children. However, the roles of the microbiome and metabolites in the pathogenesis of ISS remains largely unknown.

Methods

We recruited 51 Chinese subjects, comprising 26 ISS children and 25 normal-height control individuals. Untargeted metabolomics was performed to explore the fecal metabolic profiles between groups. A shotgun metagenomic sequencing approach was used to investigate the microbiome at the strains level. Mediation analyses were done to reveal correlations between the height standard deviation (SD) value, the gut microbiome and metabolites.

Results

We detected marked differences in the composition of fecal metabolites in the ISS group, particularly a significant increase in erucic acid and a decrease in spermidine, adenosine and L-5-Hydroxytryptophan, when compared to those of controls. We further identified specific groups of bacterial strains to be associated with the different metabolic profile. Through mediation analysis, 50 linkages were established. KEGG pathway analysis of microbiota and metabolites indicated nutritional disturbances. 13 selected features were able to accurately distinguish the ISS children from the controls (AUC = 0.933 [95%CI, 79.9–100%]) by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the microbiome and the microbial-derived metabolites play certain roles in children’s growth. These findings provide a new research direction for better understanding the mechanism(s) underlying ISS.
Flight-related determinants of health-related quality of life of asylum seekers and refugees in Germany: a longitudinal study based on the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP)
Authors: Grochtdreis Thomas , König Hans-Helmut , Dams Judith
Published: July 2024

Background

Germany played a key role as receiving country during the so-called refugee and displacement crisis with about 5 million asylum seekers arriving in the EU between 2014 and 2020. It is well known that asylum seekers and refugees (ASRs) have a high burden of disease and are particularly prone to mental disorders such as trauma, stress-related and affective disorders. Not much is known about the determinants of health-related quality of life (HrQoL) among ASRs, especially in the context of the flight. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the associations between flight-related characteristics and HrQoL of ASRs in Germany.

Methods

The sample of this study was based on five consecutive waves of the Survey of Refugees samples of the German Socio-Economic Panel (n = 8015; 14,314 observations). Mental and physical HrQoL was measured using the mental (MCS) and physical (PCS) component summary scores of the SF-12v2. Associations between flight-related characteristics and HrQoL were examined using multilevel mixed-effects linear regressions.

Results

The different countries of birth were associated with varying MCS and PCS scores. The MCS and PCS scores were lower among ASRs with an economic situation below average in their countries of origin. Persecution, discrimination, and poor living conditions as reasons for leaving the county were associated with lower MCS scores. ASRs who were dissatisfied with their own living situation and who were discriminated often due to their origin had both lower MCS and PCS scores. Not feeling welcome in Germany and missing people from one’s country of origin were both associated with lower MCS scores. No worries about not being able to stay in Germany or not being able to return to one’s country of origin were both associated with higher MCS scores.

Conclusions

The economic situation in the country of origin and the presence of persecution, discrimination, and/or poor living conditions as reason for flight may be pre-flight-related determinants of HrQoL of ASRs in Germany. Possible post-flight-related determinants can be the residence status, the satisfaction with one’s living situation, discrimination due to one’s origin and a feeling of missing people from one’s country of origin. With regard to those determinants, the clarity about the residence status, reducing racial discrimination and the mourning of flight-related circumstances must be ensured.
Psychoactive substance use and associated factors among Mohammed first university students, Oujda, Morocco: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Essadi Adil , Aissaoui Hanane , Yeznasni Asmae , Lekfif Asmae , Sebbar Sanae , Atassi Mariam , Abda Naima
Published: July 2024

Background

The use of psychoactive substances, including tobacco, alcohol, and others, remains a major public health problem. However, few studies have been conducted on Moroccan university students. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of substance use among students at Mohammed First University, Oujda, Morocco.

Methods

We conducted this cross-sectional study with students enrolled at one of the Mohammed First University of Oujda’s institutes as part of the 2021–202 academic year. We used a self-administered survey to collect data anonymously. We cleaned the data and then entered it into IBM SPSS Statistics 21 for analysis. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics as well as univariate and multivariate analysis. We considered a P value < 0.05 as the level of significance.

Results

In this study, out of 500 students we asked to complete the survey, 478 responded; the response rate was 95.6%. The average age was 21.1 ± 3.0, and the M/F sex ratio was 0.97. The lifetime prevalence of psychoactive substance use among Oujda University students was 28.7%. The most commonly used substances were tobacco (24.1%), alcohol (15.9%), cannabis (13.4%), sedatives (6.9%), stimulants (5.2%), and cocaine (4.4%). Male sex, age > 20 years, self-financing, school failure (one year repeated or more), the practice of a leisure activity, the presence of a personal medical or psychiatric history, and the presence of a family medical history were all significantly associated with the use of psychoactive substances.

Conclusion

Our study revealed a significant prevalence of psychoactive substance use among university students in Oujda, highlighting the need for interventions at various levels. Further analytical studies are necessary to better understand the initiation and maintenance of psychoactive substance use and to identify all associated factors to enhance prevention strategies against substance use disorders.
Sheehan’s syndrome presenting with panhypopituitarism and central diabetes insipidus: a case report
Authors: Chen Chin-Fang , Liang Yu-Cheng , Tsai Meng-Jie , Ou Horng-Yih
Published: July 2024

Background

Sheehan’s syndrome is a rare condition, which is classically characterized by anterior pituitary hypofunction following postpartum shock or hemorrhage. While diabetes insipidus (DI) is not commonly associated with Sheehan’s syndrome, we present a rare case of a multiparous female developing rapid-onset panhypopituitarism and DI following severe postpartum hemorrhage.

Case presentation

A previously healthy 39-year-old woman, gravida 5, para 4, presented with hypovolemic shock after vaginal delivery, attributed to severe postpartum hemorrhage, necessitating emergent hysterectomy. Although her shock episodes resolved during hospitalization, she developed intermittent fever, later diagnosed as adrenal insufficiency. Administration of hydrocortisone effectively resolved the fever. However, she subsequently developed diabetes insipidus. Diagnosis of Sheehan’s syndrome with central diabetes insipidus was confirmed through functional hormonal tests and MRI findings. Treatment consisted of hormone replacement therapy, with persistent panhypopituitarism noted during a ten-year follow-up period.

Conclusions

Sheehan’s syndrome is a rare complication of postpartum hemorrhage. Central diabetes insipidus should be suspected, although not commonly, while the patient presented polyuria and polydipsia. Besides, the potential necessity for long-term hormonal replacement therapy should be considered.
The relationship between self-efficacy, resilience, and job burnout in pediatric residents: a cross-sectional study in Western China
Authors: Du Yuxi , Qiao Lina , Dong Liqun , Wan Chaomin , Yang Xue , Liu Hanmin
Published: July 2024

Background

Burnout is prevalent among pediatric residents. Self-efficacy and resilience, as concepts of positive psychology, may be protective factors for burnout. However, no current data demonstrates the mechanism of their interaction.

Objectives

To investigate the pediatric residents’ status of self-efficacy, resilience, and job burnout in a university-affiliated hospital in western China. To explore relationships among them, especially the mediating effects of resilience.

Methods

The study was conducted with 190 pediatric residents from an A-Class women’s and children’s hospital in western China. Data included demographic characteristics, status of pediatric residents, measures of burnout (using the Physicians’ Career Burnout Questionnaire), self-efficacy (using the General Self-Efficacy Scale) and resilience (using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale). Multiple regression analysis and mediation analysis with bootstrapping were used to identify whether resilience mediates the relationship between self-efficacy and burnout.

Results

Female pediatric residents exhibited significantly lower self-efficacy (t = 2.53, p<0.05) and higher levels of job burnout (t=-2.64, p<0.01) compared to male residents. Residents in the standardized training stage experienced higher levels of job burnout compared to those who had completed the training, as indicated by t-values of -3.21, -2.13, and − 2.80 (p<0.05). Significant correlations (p ≤ 0.01) were found among self-efficacy, resilience, and burnout. Additionally, our findings indicated that pediatric residents’ self-efficacy can positively predict job burnout and its three dimensions through a major mediating effect of resilience.

Conclusions

The findings regarding the mediating effect of resilience on the influence of self-efficacy on burnout, and their association with gender and residency status, have practical implications for interventions aimed at reducing burnout and improving the well-being of pediatric residents.
‘It’s not making a decision, it’s prompting the discussions’: a qualitative study exploring stakeholders’ views on the acceptability and feasibility of advance research planning (CONSULT-ADVANCE)
Authors: Shepherd Victoria , Hood Kerenza , Wood Fiona
Published: July 2024

Background

Health and care research involving people who lack capacity to consent requires an alternative decision maker to decide whether they participate or not based on their ‘presumed will’. However, this is often unknown. Advance research planning (ARP) is a process for people who anticipate periods of impaired capacity to prospectively express their preferences about research participation and identify who they wish to be involved in future decisions. This may help to extend individuals’ autonomy by ensuring that proxy decisions are based on their actual wishes. This qualitative study aimed to explore stakeholders’ views about the acceptability and feasibility of ARP and identify barriers and facilitators to its implementation in the UK.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 27 researchers, practitioners, and members of the public who had participated in a preceding survey. Interviews were conducted remotely between April and November 2023. Data were analysed thematically.

Results

Participants were supportive of the concept of ARP, with differing amounts of support for the range of possible ARP activities depending on the context. Six main themes were identified: (1) Planting a seed – creating opportunities to initiate/engage with ARP; (2) A missing part of the puzzle – how preferences expressed through ARP could help inform decisions; (3) Finding the sweet spot – optimising the timing of ARP; (4) More than a piece of paper – finding the best mode for recording preferences; (5) Keeping the door open to future opportunities – minimising the risk of unintended consequences; and (6) Navigating with a compass – principles underpinning ARP to ensure safeguarding and help address inequalities. Participants also identified a number of implementation challenges, and proposed facilitative strategies that might overcome them which included embedding advance research planning in existing future planning processes and research-focused activities.

Conclusions

This study provides a routemap to implementing ARP in the UK to enable people anticipating impaired capacity to express their preferences about research, thus ensuring greater opportunities for inclusion of this under-served group, and addressing the decisional burden experienced by some family members acting as proxies. Development of interventions and guidance to support ARP is needed, with a focus on ensuring accessibility.