bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A reversible cell penetrating peptide-cargo linkage allows dissection of cell penetrating peptide- and cargo-dependent effects on internalization and identifies new functionalities of putative endolytic peptides
Authors: Morris Daniel P. , Snipes Lucy C. , Hill Stephanie A. , Woods Michael M. , Mbugua Maria M. , Wade Lydia R. , McMurry Jonathan L.
Published: November 2022

Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) are a promising technology for therapeutic delivery of macromolecular cargos. CPPs have generally used covalent linkages to cargo, ensuring a common fate as one molecule. Conversely, our CPP-adaptor, TAT-CaM, noncovalently binds calmodulin binding sequence (CBS)-containing cargos in calcium rich media then dissociates in the calcium-poor endosomal environment following internalization, enhancing endosomal escape relative to standard CPPs. In this study, we report cell entry of positively charged protein cargos that were not increased by TAT-CaM while cargos based on the negatively charged maltose binding protein (MBP) displayed little intrinsic internalization but were internalized by TAT-CaM. In addition, association of positively charged proteins with negatively charged nucleic acids reduced internalization. This evidence points to the dominant role cargo charge plays in apparent CPP effectiveness. There has been little systematic investigation as to how interaction between CPPs and cargos impacts internalization efficiency. Our adaptors provide a tool that allows combinatorial assays to detect emergent properties. Toward this end we added 4 endolytic peptide (EP) sequences between cargo CBS and MBP moieties to create 4 new cargos and between TAT and CaM to create 4 new adaptors. The new cargos were assayed for internalization alone and with a panel of CPP-adaptors to identify combinations that displayed increased internalization efficiency or other properties. Among the most important results, addition of the EP LAH4 improved adaptor performance and provided some CPP capability to cargos. MBP-LAH4-CBS was internalized more effectively by most adaptors, suggesting this sequence has general stimulatory ability. Two other EPs, Aurein 1.2 and HA2, also provided some CPP capability to their MBP cargos but were unexpectedly antagonistic to internalization by most adaptors due to retention of adaptor/cargo complexes on the cell surface. We thus identified LAH4 as stimulator of internalization in both adaptors and cargos and uncovered new functionality for Aurein 1.2 and HA2, which may be related to their identification as EPs. Future experiments will test new endolytic capabilities made possible with combinatorial approaches.
A systematic review and network meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of third-line and over third-line therapy after imatinib and TKI resistance in advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Authors: Xiao Xianhao , Yuan Weiye , Wang Chong , Song He
Published: November 2022

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have greatly improved the prognosis of unresectable and metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) in the last two decades. Imatinib and sunitinib are recommended as first-line and second-line therapies, respectively. However, there is a lack of precision therapy for refractory GISTs regarding therapy after imatinib and sunitinib. We comprehensively searched electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials, from inception to October 2022. Randomized controlled trials featuring comparisons with third-line or over third-line therapies against GISTs were eligible. The primary outcome was progression-free survival (PFS). All network calculations were performed using random effect models, and the ranking of regimens were numerically based on the surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) statistics. A total of seven studies were eligible for inclusion in this network meta-analysis. After analysis, ripretinib was ranked at the top in progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and disease control rate (DCR) (SUCRA statistics: 83.1%, 82.5%, and 86.5%, respectively), whereas nilotinib and pimitespib presented better tolerability (SUCRA statistics: 64.9% and 63.8%, respectively). We found that regorafenib seemed more reliable for clinical administration, and ripretinib showed good effectiveness for the over third-line therapy. Precise targeted therapy is a critical direction for the future treatment of GIST, and more high-quality studies of new agents are expected.
Does intermittent hypoxic exposure enhance the cardioprotective effect of exercise in an inactive population?
Authors: Lizamore Catherine A. , Stoner Lee , Kathiravel Yaso , Elliott John , Hamlin Michael J.
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to determine whether exercise supplemented with passive intermittent hypoxic exposure (IHE) improved overall cardiovascular disease risk and individual risk factors. Participants were randomized to exercise-only (Ex, n = 18, 5 males, 13 females; age: 56.4 ± 6.5 years; weight: 81.2 ± 15.9; height: 167.3 ± 8.42) or exercise + IHE (IHE + Ex, n = 16; 6 males, 10 females; age: 56.7 ± 6.4 years; weight: 78.6 ± 12.4 kg; height: 168.0 ± 8.8 cm). Both groups received the same strength and aerobic exercise training (1 h, 3 days/wk, 10 weeks). IHE + Ex also received IHE (5 min hypoxia: 5 min ambient air ×6) for 2–3 days/wk. Measurements were collected before (Baseline), after (Post), and 4- and 8-week following the intervention. There were small, beneficial reductions in overall 5- year cardiovascular risk in both groups. At Post, for IHE + Ex compared to IHE there were unclear to likely improvements in high density lipoprotein (8.0% ± 8.0%), systolic blood pressure (−3.4% ± 3.4%) and VO2peak (3.1% ± 7.7%). These improvements persisted at 8-week. There was an unclear improvement in arterial wave reflection (augmentation index) at Post (−6.1% ± 18.4%, unclear), but became very likely harmful at 8-week (8-week: 24.8% ± 19.7%). The conflicting findings indicate that in inactive adults, the addition of IHE to exercise may be beneficial to systemic markers of cardiovascular health but may also increase myocardial load due to increased arterial wave reflection.
Attenuated inflammatory profile following single and repeated handgrip exercise and remote ischemic preconditioning in patients with cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Landman Thijs R. J. , Uthman Laween , Hofmans Inge A. H. , Schoon Yvonne , de Leeuw Frank-Erik , Thijssen Dick H. J.
Published: November 2022

Background: Similar to remote ischemic preconditioning bouts of exercise may possess immediate protective effects against ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. This study compared the impact of single and repeated handgrip exercise versus remote ischemic preconditioning on inflammatory biomarkers in patients with cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD).

Methods: In this crossover study, 14 patients with cSVD were included. All participants performed 4-day of handgrip exercise (4x5-minutes at 30% of maximal handgrip strength) and remote ischemic preconditioning (rIPC; 4x5-minutes cuff occlusion around the upper arm) twice daily. Patients were randomized to start with either handgrip exercise or rIPC and the two interventions were separated by > 9 days. Venous blood was drawn before and after one intervention, and after 4-day of repeated exposure. We performed a targeted proteomics on inflammation markers in all blood samples.

Results: Targeted proteomics revealed significant changes in 9 out of 92 inflammatory proteins, with four proteins demonstrating comparable time-dependent effects between handgrip and rIPC. After adjustment for multiple testing we found significant decreases in FMS-related tyrosine kinase-3 ligand (Flt3L; 16.2% reduction; adjusted p-value: 0.029) and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21; 32.8% reduction adjusted p-value: 0.029) after single exposure. This effect did not differ between handgrip and rIPC. The decline in Flt3L after repeated handgrip and rIPC remained significant (adjusted p-value = 0.029), with no difference between rIPC and handgrip (adjusted p-value = 0.98).

Conclusion: Single handgrip exercise and rIPC immediately attenuated plasma Flt3L and FGF-21, with the reduction of Flt3L remaining present after 4-day of repeated intervention, in people with cSVD. This suggests that single and repeated handgrip exercise and rIPC decrease comparable inflammatory biomarkers, which suggests activation of shared (anti-)inflammatory pathways following both stimuli. Additional studies will be needed to exclude the possibility that this activation is merely a time effect.
Hypoxia induces purinergic receptor signaling to disrupt endothelial barrier function
Authors: Raghavan Somasundaram , Brishti Masuma Akter , Collier Daniel Mohr , Leo M. Dennis
Published: November 2022

Blood-brain-barrier permeability is regulated by endothelial junctional proteins and is vital in limiting access to and from the blood to the CNS. When stressed, several cells, including endothelial cells, can release nucleotides like ATP and ADP that signal through purinergic receptors on these cells to disrupt BBB permeability. While this process is primarily protective, unrestricted, uncontrolled barrier disruption during injury or inflammation can lead to serious neurological consequences. Purinergic receptors are broadly classified into two families: the P1 adenosine and P2 nucleotide receptors. The P2 receptors are further sub-classified into the P2XR ion channels and the P2YR GPCRs. While ATP mainly activates P2XRs, P2YRs have a broader range of ligand selectivity. The P2Y1R, essential for platelet function, is reportedly ubiquitous in its expression. Prior studies using gene knockout and specific antagonists have shown that these approaches have neuroprotective effects following occlusive stroke. Here we investigated the expression of P2Y1R in primary cultured brain endothelial cells and its relation to the maintenance of BBB function. Results show that following in vitro hypoxia and reoxygenation, P2Y1R expression is upregulated in both control and diabetic cells. At the same time, endothelial junctional markers, ZO-1 and VE-cadherin, were downregulated, and endothelial permeability increased. siRNA knockdown of P2Y1R and MRS 2500 effectively blocked this response. Thus, we show that P2Y1R signaling in endothelial cells leads to the downregulation of endothelial barrier function.
Genetic association of spikelet abortion with spike, grain, and shoot traits in highly-diverse six-rowed barley
Authors: Kamal Roop , Muqaddasi Quddoos H. , Schnurbusch Thorsten
Published: November 2022

Spikelet abortion is a phenomenon where apical spikelet primordia on an immature spike abort. Regardless of the row-type, both apical and basal spikelet abortion occurs, and their extent decides the number of grain-bearing spikelets retained on the spike—thus, affecting the yield potential of barley. Reducing spikelet abortion, therefore, represents an opportunity to increase barley yields. Here, we investigated the variation for apical spikelet abortion along with 16 major spike, shoot, and grain traits in a panel of 417 six-rowed spring barleys. Our analyses showed a significantly large genotypic variation resulting in high heritability estimates for all the traits. Spikelet abortion (SA) varies from 13 to 51% depending on the genotype and its geographical origin. Among the seven spike traits, SA was negatively correlated with final spikelet number, spike length and density, while positively with awn length. This positive correlation suggests a plausible role of the rapidly growing awns during the spikelet abortion process, especially after Waddington stage 5. In addition, SA also showed a moderate positive correlation with grain length, grain area and thousand-grain weight. Our hierarchical clustering revealed distinct genetic underpinning of grain traits from the spike and shoot traits. Trait associations showed a geographical bias whereby European accessions displayed higher SA and grain and shoot trait values, whereas the trend was opposite for the Asian accessions. To study the observed phenotypic variation of SA explained by 16 other individual traits, we applied linear, quadratic, and generalized additive regression models (GAM). Our analyses of SA revealed that the GAM generally performed superior in comparison to the other models. The genetic interactions among traits suggest novel breeding targets and easy-to-phenotype “proxy-traits” for high throughput on-field selection for grain yield, especially in early generations of barley breeding programs.
Identification of a QTL region for ashy stem blight resistance using genome-wide association and linage analysis in common bean recombinant inbred lines derived from BAT 477 and NY6020-4
Authors: Viteri Diego M. , Linares Angela M. , Miranda Zoralys , Shi Ainong
Published: November 2022

Ashy stem blight (ASB), caused by the fungus Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goidanich is an important disease of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). It is important to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for ASB resistance and introgress into susceptible cultivars of the common bean. The objective of this research was to identify QTL and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with ASB resistance in recombinant inbred lines (RIL) derived from a cross between BAT 477 and NY6020-4 common bean. One hundred and twenty-six F6:7 RIL were phenotyped for ASB in the greenhouse. Disease severity was scored on a scale of 1–9. Genotyping was performed using whole genome resequencing with 2x common bean genome size coverage, and over six million SNPs were obtained. After being filtered, 72,017 SNPs distributed on 11 chromosomes were used to conduct the genome-wide association study (GWAS) and QTL mapping. A novel QTL region of ~4.28 Mbp from 35,546,329 bp to 39,826,434 bp on chromosome Pv03 was identified for ASB resistance. The two SNPs, Chr03_39824257 and Chr03_39824268 located at 39,824,257 bp and 39,824,268 bp on Pv03, respectively, were identified as the strongest markers associated with ASB resistance. The gene Phvul.003G175900 (drought sensitive, WD repeat-containing protein 76) located at 39,822,021 – 39,824,655 bp on Pv03 was recognized as one candidate for ASB resistance in the RIL, and the gene contained the two SNP markers. QTL and SNP markers may be used to select plants and lines for ASB resistance through marker-assisted selection (MAS) in common bean breeding.
Plant growth forms dictate adaptations to the local climate
Authors: dos Santos Patrícia , Brilhante Miguel Ângelo , Messerschmid Thibaud F. E. , Serrano Helena Cristina , Kadereit Gudrun , Branquinho Cristina , de Vos Jurriaan M.
Published: November 2022

Adaptive radiation is a significant driver of biodiversity. Primarily studied in animal systems, mechanisms that trigger adaptive radiations remain poorly understood in plants. A frequently claimed indicator of adaptive radiation in plants is growth form diversity when tied to the occupation of different habitats. However, it remains obscure whether morphological adaptations manifest as growth form diversity per se or as its constituent traits. We use the classicAeoniumradiation from the Canary Islands to ask whether adaptation across climatic space is structured by growth form evolution. Using morphological sampling with site-associated climate in a phylogenetic context, we find that growth forms dictate adaptations to the local environment. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the response of specific traits to analogous environments is antagonistic when growth forms are different. This finding suggests for the first time that growth forms represent particular ecological functions, allowing the co-occurrence of closely related species, being a product of divergent selection during evolution in sympatry.
Genome-wide survey of Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinases (CPKs) in five Brassica species and identification of CPKs induced by Plasmodiophora brassicae in B. rapa, B. oleracea, and B. napus
Authors: Lu Junxing , Yang Nan , Zhu Yangyi , Chai Zhongxin , Zhang Tao , Li Wei
Published: November 2022

Calcium-dependent protein kinase (CPK) is a class of Ser/Thr protein kinase that exists in plants and some protozoa, possessing Ca2+ sensing functions and kinase activity. To better reveal the roles that Brassica CPKs played during plant response to stresses, five Brassica species, namely Brassica rapa (B. rapa), Brassica nigra (B. nigra), Brassica oleracea (B. oleracea), Brassica juncea (B. juncea), and Brassica napus (B. napus) were selected and analyzed. In total, 51 BraCPK, 56 BniCPK, 56 BolCPK, 88 BjuCPK, and 107 BnaCPK genes were identified genome wide and phylogenetics, chromosomal mapping, collinearity, promoter analysis, and biological stress analysis were conducted. The results showed that a typical CPK gene was constituted by a long exon and tandem short exons. They were unevenly distributed on most chromosomes except chromosome A08 in B. napus and B. rapa, and almost all CPK genes were located on regions of high gene density as non-tandem form. The promoter regions of BraCPKs, BolCPKs, and BnaCPKs possessed at least three types of cis-elements, among which the abscisic acid responsive-related accounted for the largest proportion. In the phylogenetic tree, CPKs were clustered into four primary groups, among which group I contained the most CPK genes while group IV contained the fewest. Some clades, like AT5G23580.1(CPK12) and AT2G31500.1 (CPK24) contained much more gene members than others, indicating a possibility that gene expansion occurred during evolution. Furthermore, 4 BraCPKs, 14 BolCPKs, and 31 BnaCPKs involved in the Plasmodiophora brassicae (P. brassicae) defense response in resistant (R) or susceptible (S) materials were derived from online databases, leading to the discovery that some R-specific induced CPKs, such as BnaC02g08720D, BnaA03g03800D, and BolC04g018270.2J.m1 might be ideal candidate genes for P. brassicae resistant research. Overall, these results provide valuable information for research on the function and evolution of CDK genes.
Psychological and educational learning strategies and models during the COVID-19 pandemic: A comparative bibliometric analysis
Authors: Alshahrani Abdullah Falah M.
Published: November 2022

This paper undertakes a literature review of psychological, Educational Learning Strategies, and Models during the COVID-19 Pandemic. It examines data from 359 publications relating to this subject, published on the Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect between 2020 and 2021 using bibliometric analysis adapted with VOSviewer software. The review discusses the following approaches (keywords, authors, references (research papers), research work, countries, and research institutions). It concluded that bibliometric analysis is fundamental for detailing the theoretical literature and developing an integrated theoretical framework for psychological and Educational Learning Strategies. The psychological impact on students and potential stress needs to be closely monitored and evaluated, to plan effective policies while adopting these pedagogical approaches.
The study of psychological traits among Chinese college students during the COVID-19 campus lockdown
Authors: Xu Haibo , Wang Zhen , Peng Lixin , Mi Yanyan , Zeng Ping , Liu Xin
Published: November 2022

To investigate the prevalence of interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety, depression symptoms and associated risk factors among a large-scale sample of college students in China during the COVID-19 campus lockdown. The survey was conducted among undergraduate students at a university in eastern part of China in April 2022. The Chi-square test was used to compare the different variable groups and multivariable analysis was performed for the risk factors associated with interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety, and depression symptoms. A total of 12,922 college students were included, with an average age of (20.96 ± 1.66) years. The prevalence of interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety and depression symptoms in this study was 58.1, 22.7, and 46.8%, respectively. Male (OR = 1.16, p < 0.001), 22–23 years (OR = 1.40, p < 0.001), freshman (OR = 1.35, p = 0.002), and non-only child (OR = 1.15, p < 0.001) were positively associated with interpersonal sensitivity. Male (OR = 1.20, p < 0.001), sophomores (OR = 1.27, p = 0.020) and seniors (OR = 1.20, p = 0.027) were positively associated with anxiety symptoms. Compared with female students, male students (OR = 0.89, p < 0.001) were less likely to have depression symptoms. 22–23 years (OR = 1.37, p < 0.001), sophomores (OR = 1.26, p = 0.009) and non-only child (OR = 1.11, p = 0.009) were positively associated with depression symptoms. In addition, college students aged 18–21 years, learning status, skipping breakfast, roommate relationship and sleep quality were associated with interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety and depression symptoms (all p < 0.05). The findings of this study suggest a high prevalence of interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety and depression symptoms among Chinese college students during the COVID-19 campus lockdown. Younger ages, low grades, poor dormitory relationship, negative learning status, skipping breakfast and poor sleep quality were the risk factors for college students’ mental health, which should be concerned by the relevant departments of school during the campus lockdown.
Prevalence and clinical correlates of misophonia symptoms in the general population of Germany
Authors: Jakubovski Ewgeni , Müller Astrid , Kley Hanna , de Zwaan Martina , Müller-Vahl Kirsten
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Misophonia refers to a phenomenon in which affected individuals have a selective intolerance to sounds of mostly oral or nasal origin. This intolerance is typically associated with strong emotional reactions such as anger, irritation, and disgust. The aim of this study was to conduct the first large epidemiological survey to determine the prevalence of misophonia symptoms in the adult population in Germany.

Methods

We conducted a large-scale representative population survey between December 2020 and March 2021. For this purpose, a sample of 2,519 people were visited in their households and assessed with the Misophonia Questionnaire (MQ) and the Amsterdam Misophonia Questionnaire (AMISOS-R) to document misophonic symptoms. The primary estimate of clinical misophonia symptoms prevalence was based on the MQ Severity Scale and a secondary estimate was based on the AMISOS-R. The survey further included self-ratings to measure perfectionism, not-just-right experience (NJRE), autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) and general health as well as demographic data.

Results

Five percent of the sample scored equal or above the MQ Severity Scale threshold for clinical misophonia symptoms (5.9% based on AMISOS-R). Individuals with clinical misophonia symptoms had a higher rate of perfectionism, a higher occurrence of NJRE, higher susceptibility to ASMR, and a worse general health status than those scoring below the cut-off-score. All those factors also independently predicted the severity of misophonia symptoms in a multiple regression model.

Conclusion

Misophonia is a frequent condition and should further be examined as an independent diagnostic entity.
Pakistan at the precipice: The looming threat of measles amidst the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Tariq Samiuddin , Niaz Faizan , Afzal Yusra , Tariq Rabbia , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Ullah Irfan
Published: November 2022

The global focus on curbing the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced the overall immunization rates worldwide. This, coupled with increasing malnutrition and strained healthcare, has increased measles cases and mortality globally. Many countries are thus facing outbreaks, with Afghanistan having reported 372 deaths between January and September 2022. Therefore, Pakistan, a country in a similar economic state and the world's fourth highest reported measles cases in 2022, must take action. Moreover, the current flooded state of Pakistan and the subsequent mass movement of population, deterioration of health services, and worsened living conditions all contribute to put the country at a high risk of potentially devastating Measles outbreaks. With vaccination rates down by 42% since the start of the pandemic and the threat of an outbreak increasing daily, there is only so much time before the situation spirals out of control.
“Embedding” and “pulling back”: Spatial transformations and urban assimilation of migrant elderlies following their children
Authors: Bao Yaxiong , Tao Juanmei , Liu Qian
Published: November 2022

Background

Due to the rapid acceleration of social mobility and the shrinking size of families, China has begun to enter a new form of aging society, with an increasing number of migrant elderlies following their children. How to adapt and assimilate into the new living space profoundly affects those migrant elderlies' mental health. Drawing on the spatial framework proposed by Henry Lefebvre, this paper explores the factors affecting urban assimilation of migrant elderlies following their children in China, and puts forward corresponding strategies to promote the urban assimilation.

Method

Using semi-structured interviews and participatory observation, this study conducted a qualitative study among migrant elderlies following their children who lived in a University Community in Wuhan city, Hubei Province from May 2022 to July 2022. During the survey period, we participated in the gathering activities of the migrant elderly five times a week, and conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 migrant elderlies following their children.

Results

Firstly, this study reveals that family assimilation is the foundation of urban assimilation of migrant elderly following their children; Secondly, we could conclude that the urban life of the migrant elderlies are mostly community-based, so it is especially important for them to reconstruct close neighborhood relations and regain the humanity affection of the traditional acquaintance society. Lastly, the fundamental institutional barrier is a significant factor that influences the ability of these migrant elderlies to live a stable urban life. The Chinese government needs to promote a nationwide unified pension and health insurance system, so that the migrant elderlies can enjoy the same benefits as the local elderly residents in the “inflow” area.
Cyberbullying and internet gaming disorder in Chinese youth: The role of positive youth development attributes
Authors: Xiang Guo-Xing , Zhang Yan-Hong , Gan Xiong , Qin Ke-Nan , Zhou Ya-Ning , Li Min , Jin Xin
Published: November 2022

Introduction

As digital natives, young people enjoy the convenience and benefits of the internet but also suffer from unique developmental problems of this age, such as cyberbullying and internet gaming disorder (IGD). Research suggests that these online problem behaviors enjoy high prevalence and various negative impacts. To prevent or intervene, this study attempts to explore the association between cyberbullying and IGD and the potential protectors from the positive youth development (PYD) perspective.

Methods

Through the convenience sampling method, a sample of 463 Chinese adolescents was recruited and participated in the survey. They completed a questionnaire regarding PYD attributes, cyberbullying, IGD, and demographic information.

Results

After controlling adolescents' sex and age, results of regression analyses indicated that cyberbullying was positively associated with IGD; PYD attributes had negative cumulative effects on cyberbullying and IGD; and cyberbullying and IGD were negatively related to PYD attributes. Moreover, the mediating effect of PYD attributes was significant in the relationship between cyberbullying and IGD.

Discussion

Specifically, it is very possible for adolescents who have experienced one online problem behavior to suffer from another one. Fortunately, positive personal attributes could effectively buffer this cascading effect. These findings may provide theoretical and practical guidance for practitioners that improving PYD attributes may be a promising approach to prevent or reduce adolescent cyberbullying and IGD.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on palliative care practice: A survey of clinical oncologists
Authors: Wang Yu , Huang Yilin , Ma Xiangyu , Wusiman Dilinaer , Zhang Xinqing , Bi Nan
Published: November 2022

Background

Palliative care is an essential intervention to improve the quality of life for patients with cancer, whereas the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic poses a challenge to supportive and palliative care providers. This survey aims to explore the current status of palliative care practice for cancer and the influence of COVID-19, from the perspective of oncologists.

Methods

The semi-structure electronic questionnaire was designed. Mixed-mode surveys including electronic questionnaires, face-to-face interactions, and telephone interviews were adopted according to the willingness of respondents. Face-to-face and telephone interviews were based on same questions in the online questionnaire. Participants working in cancer-related departments with frontline palliative care experience during the COVID-19 outbreak were included. Surveys covered experiences and perspectives regarding the impact of COVID-19 on clinical work, personal lives, and palliative care practice. Suggestions on coping strategies were further proposed and qualitatively analyzed.

Results

Thirty-seven oncologists participated in this study from September 2021 to January 2022. The majority of them believed COVID-19 significantly and negatively affected their clinical work routines (75.7%), personal daily lives (67.6%), and palliative care practice (64.9%). Most specialists considered that currently the palliative care system remained underdeveloped (73.0%), and other factors besides COVID-19 were associated with this situation (78.4%). Seventeen participants further made suggestions on how to promote palliative care during COVID-19, and three themes emerged through the qualitative analysis: (1) Remote or online service (88.2%); (2) Publicity, education, or shared decision-making for patients (29.4%); (3) Guidelines, training, or programs for care providers (23.6%).

Conclusion

Oncologists consider that COVID-19 has an adverse impact on their palliative care practice and daily routine. In addition to COVID-19, other factors affecting palliative care should not be neglected. Corresponding measures are warranted to encourage palliative care practice during COVID-19.
Use of provider-to-provider telemedicine in Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kim Erin J. , Moretti Meghan E. , Kimathi Antony Mugambi , Chan Stephen Y. , Wootton Richard
Published: November 2022

Introduction

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 90 percent of countries continue to report COVID-related disruptions to their health systems. The use of telemedicine has been especially common among high-income countries to safely deliver and access health services where enabling infrastructure like broadband connectivity is more widely available than low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The Addis Clinic implements a provider-to-provider (P2P) asynchronous telemedicine model in Kenya. We sought to examine the use of the P2P telemedicine platform during the second year of COVID-19.

Methods

To assess sustainability, we compared the data for two 12-month calendar periods (period A = year 2020, and period B = year 2021). To examine performance, we compared the data for two different 12-month periods (period C = pandemic period of February 2021 to January 2022, and period D = baseline period of February 2019 to January 2020).

Results

Sustainability of the P2P telemedicine platform was maintained during the pandemic with increased activity levels from 2,604 cases in 2020 to 3,525 cases in 2021. There was an average of 82 specialists and 5.9 coordinators during 2020, and an average of 81 specialists and 6.0 coordinators during 2021. During 2020, there were 444 cases per coordinator, and 587 cases per coordinator in 2021(P = 0.078). During 2020, there were 32 cases per specialist, and 43 cases per specialist in 2021(P = 0.068). Performance decreased with 99 percent of cases flagged as “answered” during the baseline period (period D), and 75 percent of cases flagged as “answered” during the pandemic period (period C).

Conclusion

Results suggest that despite a decline in certain sustainability and performance indicators, The Addis Clinic was able to sustain a very high level of activity during the second year of the pandemic, as shown by the continued use of the system. Furthermore, despite some of the infrastructure challenges present in LMICs, the P2P telemedicine platform was a viable option for receiving clinical recommendations from medical experts located remotely. As health systems in LMICs grapple with the effects of the pandemic, it is worthwhile to consider the use of telemedicine to deliver essential health services.
A comparative analysis of outcomes of root canal therapy for pediatric medicaid beneficiaries from New York State
Authors: Burns Lorel E. , Gencerliler Nihan , Terlizzi Kelly , Wu Yinxiang , Solis-Roman Claudia , Gold Heather T.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This study investigated differences in the provision of root canal therapy and outcomes in a publicly insured cohort of children and adolescents.

Methods

New York State Medicaid administrative claims from 2006 to 2018 were analyzed. Enrollees aged 6–18 were included in the study if they had initial non-surgical root canal therapy (NSRCT), in the permanent dentition, that allowed for at least 1 year of post-treatment follow-up. Descriptive analyses, multivariable logistic regression, and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the association between demographic variables (gender, age, race/ethnicity, and area-based factors) and dental treatment provision and outcomes.

Results

Male gender was associated with having more than one initial NSRCT (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.06; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.10), as was rurality (aOR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.06–1.24). Black/African American (AA) and Hispanic children were less likely than non-Hispanic white children to have multiple NSRCTs (aOR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.83–0.93 and aOR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.74–0.83). Being older or female conferred a lower hazard of an untoward event (aHR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.92–0.94 and aHR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.81–0.91). Compared to non-Hispanic white children, Hispanic and Black/AA children had a higher risk of untoward event (aHR = 1.31; 95% CI = 1.21–1.41 and aHR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.43–1.67) while children of Asian descent had a lower incidence after initial NSRCT (aHR = 0.79; 95% CI = 0.71–0.88).

Conclusion

Race/ethnicity was the strongest demographic predictor of provision of initial non-surgical root canal therapy, subsequent placement of a permanent restoration and the occurrence of an untoward event after NSRCT in this cohort.
Determinants of delinquency in the Peruvian banking and microfinance system, 2015–2020
Authors: Quispe Mamani Julio Cesar , Hancco Gomez Miriam Serezade , Yapuchura Saico Cristobal Rufino , Palomino Juan Isidoro Gómez , Aguilar Pinto Santotomas Licimaco , Vargas Espinoza Jorge Luis , Chalco Vargas Fredy Toribio , Maraza Amira Carpio , Álvarez Dominga Asunción Calcina , Quenta Rolando Cáceres
Published: November 2022

Objective

The objective was to identify the variables that affect the delinquency rate in banking and microfinance institutions, between the periods 2015 and 2020, for which panel data models were used, considering the information registered in the banking and financial institutions to the level of Peru.

Method

The methodological design used is quantitative, not experimental, with a descriptive-correlational design, applying the analysis of the data panel for each financial institution (Multiple Banking, Municipal Savings Banks), to observe the behavior over time for the same individuals.

Results

It was determined that the behavior of the delinquency of microfinance institutions is having significant effects on the delinquency of loans, and macroeconomic variables like microeconomic variables do determine delinquency rates such as provisions, efficiency of analysts, financial income, liquidity in national currency, growth rate of Gross Domestic Product, and the level of unemployment, both for banks and for municipal savings and credit banks, explaining the study variables in 84.30% in the banking system and in 48.95% in the financial system with respect to delinquency.

Conclusions

Macroeconomic and microeconomic variables are determining factors for the level of delinquency in financial institutions.
Case report: Mature extragonadal teratoma at the proximal part of the tail in a kitten
Authors: Sirivisoot Sirintra , Siripara Naklop , Arya Nlin , Techangamsuwan Somporn , Rungsipipat Anudep , Kasantikul Tanit
Published: November 2022

An 8-month-old, intact male, domestic shorthair cat was referred for a mass on the proximal ventral part of the tail which had been found since the animal was born, and due to the presence of a linear fissure with rows of ectopic teeth, the veterinarian suspected that the mass had recently ruptured. Tail amputation was elected and the entire mass was successfully surgically excised. From the gross examination, this mass had an open cyst-like structure with a prominent area composed of hair, teeth, and bone. Histopathology revealed two components of germinal layers including hair follicles, adnexal tissue, neural tissue, teeth, muscle, fat, bone, and lymphatic vessels. The histopathological diagnosis was consistent to mature teratoma. Although, complete excision could not be definitively confirmed histologically, this kitten is currently well and has not developed any recurrent mass at the surgical site after 2 years of post-operation.
Dynamic SAFFRON: Disease Control Over Time via Group Testing
Authors: Arasli Batuhan , Ulukus Sennur
Published: November 2022

Group testing is an efficient algorithmic approach to the infection identification problem, based on mixing the test samples and testing the mixed samples instead of individually testing each sample. In this paper, we consider the dynamic infection spread model that is based on the discrete SIR model, which assumes the disease to be spread over time via infected and non-isolated individuals. In our system, the main objective is not to minimize the number of required tests to identify every infection, but instead, to utilize the available, given testing capacity T at each time instance to efficiently control the infection spread. We introduce and study a novel performance metric, which we coin as ϵ-disease control time. This metric can be used to measure how fast a given algorithm can control the spread of a disease. We characterize the performance of the dynamic individual testing algorithm and introduce a novel dynamic SAFFRON-based group testing algorithm. We present theoretical results and implement the proposed algorithms to compare their performances.
Improvement of Adaptive Motion Performance in a Flexible Actuator, Based on Electrically Induced Deformation
Authors: Liu Haiqiang , Yang Chen , Xu Zhengyun , Lv Ming , Zhou Rougang
Published: November 2022

An actuator built with flexible material has the advantage of smaller size and can withstand certain collisions better than actuators with rigid material. This paper proposes a crawling actuator model driven by dielectric elastomer (DE), which uses the electrically induced deformation of the DE membrane to drive the motion of the actuator. When the dielectric elastomer in the actuator is at higher voltage, the DE material produces higher deformation, and the deformation is transmitted to the ground through the friction foot thus driving the motion of the actuator. An interpolation fitting estimation algorithm (IFEA) was constructed based on the relevant material properties and principles. The pre-stretch length of the DE membrane was determined and verified through experiment; the verified results showed that the actuator has better driving performance when the membrane pre-stretching ratio is equal to 3. The crawling actuator can achieve a speed of about 50 mm/s at 4 kv and can reach 11 mm/s when loaded with four times its weight. The new crawling actuator achieved an excellent turning ability of 8.2°/s at 60% duty cycle and 32 Hz frequency. Compared with other types of crawling actuators, the actuator presented in this work has better load capacity and crawling performance.
Future Emission Scenario Effects on Melon Cultivars (Cucumis melo L.) in the Brazilian Semi-Arid Region
Authors: Melo Talyana Kadja de , Espínola Sobrinho José , Medeiros José Franscimar de , Figueiredo Vladimir Batista , Cavalcante Junior Edmilson Gomes , Peixoto Tayd Dayvison Custódio , Sá Francisco Vanies da Silva
Published: November 2022

Future emission scenarios can interfere with the yield of major crops. In this study, we investigated the future impact of increased air temperature and relative humidity on melon phenology and water demand in the Brazilian semi-arid region. We applied the PRECIS (Providing Regional Climates for Impact Studies) climatological model to develop the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change emission scenarios—B2 optimistic emission scenario and A2 pessimistic emission scenario—and we assessed the climate change effects on the phenology and water demand of two melon cultivars. The “Orange County” hybrid, the Honeydew melon, grew from 2006–2007, and the “Néctar” hybrid, the Galia melon, grew in 2008. These cultivars were also considered using the actual emission scenario. We found that the B2 and A2 emission scenarios will cause a cycle decrease of 15.49 and 25.35% for the “Orange County” hybrid and a 9.84 and 18.03% decrease for the “Néctar” hybrid. Future changes to the climate will increase the melon crop coefficient and daily rate of evapotranspiration. Regarding the “Orange County” hybrid, the cycle shortening overcomes the daily water demand increases, decreasing water demand by 13.7–18.3%. Regarding the “Néctar” hybrid, cycle shortening will be proportional to the increase in water demand. The Honeydew melon will be more sensitive to air temperature and relative humidity increases than the Galia melon.
Detection Method and Experimental Research of Leafy Vegetable Seedlings Transplanting Based on a Machine Vision
Authors: Fu Wei , Gao Jinqiu , Zhao Chunjiang , Jiang Kai , Zheng Wengang , Tian Yanshan
Published: November 2022

In view of the need to remove empty cells and unqualified seedlings for automatic transplanting of leafy vegetable seedlings, this paper proposes a method to detect the growth parameters of leafy vegetable seedlings by using machine vision technology. This method uses the image processor PV200 to perform image grayscale, threshold segmentation, corrosion, expansion, area division, etc. to obtain the pixel value of the leaf area of the seedling and compare it with the set standard value, which provides guiding information for eliminating empty cells and unqualified seedlings. Lettuce seedlings at 17 days, 20 days, and 22 days of seedling age were used as the test objects, and the growth status and test results of the seedlings were analyzed to determine the optimum seedling age for transplanting. The test results show that there is basically no leaf cross-border between the lettuce seedlings at the age of 17 days, the average pixel area of the leaves is 3771.74, and the detection accuracy rate is 100%; the seedlings at the age of 22 days grow 5–6 leaves, the detection accuracy of unqualified seedlings and qualified seedlings was 62.50% and 88.16%, respectively, and the comprehensive detection accuracy was 85.71%. The comprehensive detection accuracy rate showed a downward trend with the increase of seedling age, mainly due to the partial occlusion between leaves. The transplanting of leafy vegetable seedlings is a sparse transplanting operation, and the seedling spacing increases after transplanting. Therefore, the detection of seedlings in the process of transplanting can greatly improve the recognition accuracy and solve the problem that the leaves of the seedlings in the seedling tray are obscured by each other and affect the detection accuracy. The research results can provide a theoretical basis and design reference for the development of the visual inspection system and the transplanting actuator of the leafy vegetable seedlings transplanting robot.
Short-Term Temperature Stress Modulates Fitness Traits in Bactrocera zonata, through Negative Impact on Larval Stage
Authors: Ullah Farman , Haq Ihsan ul , Gul Hina , Güncan Ali , Hafeez Muhammad , Tariq Kaleem , Desneux Nicolas , Li Zhihong
Published: November 2022

The frequency and magnitude of climate extremes, especially temperature extremes (TE), are increasing, which are exposing insect populations. However, insect responses to TE are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the impact of high-temperature (HT: 38 °C) and low-temperature (LT: 3 °C) stresses on demographic parameters and population projections of the peach fruit fly, Bactrocera zonata, a destructive pest of fruits and vegetables. Results show that the larval developmental stage was significantly increased by HT (8.30 d) and LT (8.10 d) compared with control (7.02 d). The preadult stage in the HT and LT stressed flies were 18.56 d and 18.40 d, respectively compared with control (17.37 d). Mean longevities of both males and females were also substantially prolonged in HT and LT treatments. Compared with control, the total pre-oviposition period (TPOP) and oviposition days of B. zonata were significantly increased in both stress conditions. Furthermore, female fecundity of flies significantly increased in both HT and LT (705.48 and 698.38 respectively) treatments compared with control (578.35). These findings show that temperature stresses in the larval stage delayed the larval development and increase the reproduction and life span of B. zonata. The temperature induces alteration in life-history traits that might have significant agricultural impacts on the control strategies for this key pest.
Breeding Ewe Lambs: An Australasian Perspective
Authors: Kenyon Paul R. , Corner-Thomas Rene A.
Published: November 2022

A number of potential advantages have been identified for breeding ewe lambs at 7 to 9 months of age, including increased lifetime productivity and profitability. However, breeding at this young age in extensive pastoral systems, such as in Australasia, can be associated with a number of disadvantages resulting in uptake of this management procedure being relatively low. This review highlights the known differences between ewe lamb and mature ewe reproductive performance, thus differing in their management. The review then summaries the scientific literature of factors that affect ewe lamb reproductive success, with a focus on recent studies conducted under extensive pasture-based conditions in Australasia. In particular, this review outlines the importance of ewe lamb live weight and body condition score on their productivity. The potential long-term consequences of breeding a ewe lamb at a young age in terms of her future success and that of her offspring to weaning are briefly outlined. In addition, the potential impacts of selecting progeny born to ewe lambs as future replacement ewes are discussed. Throughout this review, optimal management guidelines from prior to breeding the ewe lambs until rebreeding at 2 years of age are provided. Lastly, areas requiring future research are identified and discussed.