bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of inflammasome in chronic viral hepatitis
Authors: Wan Pin , Yang Ge , Cheng Qi , Zhang Xuelong , Yue Zhaoyang , Li Moran , Liu Chunlin , Yi Qian , Jia Yaling , Liu Jinbiao , Xing Xiwen , Sun Binlian , Li Yongkui
Published: May 2024

Infections of hepatotropic viruses cause a wide array of liver diseases including acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis and the consequently developed cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Among the five classical hepatotropic viruses, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) usually infect human persistently and cause chronic hepatitis, leading to major troubles to humanity. Previous studies have revealed that several types of inflammasomes are involved in the infections of HBV and HCV. Here, we summarize the current knowledge about their roles in hepatitis B and C. NLRP3 inflammasome can be activated and regulated by HBV and HCV. It is found to exert antiviral function or mediates inflammatory response in viral infections depending on different experimental models. Besides NLRP3 inflammasome, IFI16 and AIM2 inflammasomes participate in the pathological process of hepatitis B, and NALP3 inflammasome may sense HCV infection in hepatocytes. The inflammasomes affect the pathological process of viral hepatitis through its downstream secretion of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18 or induction of pyroptosis resulting from cleaved gasdermin D (GSDMD). However, the roles of inflammasomes in different stages of viral infection remains mainly unclear. More proper experimental models of viral hepatitis should be developed for specific studies in future, so that we can understand more about the complexity of inflammasome regulation and multifunction of inflammasomes and their downstream effectors during HBV and HCV infections.
Schistosoma japonicum extracellular vesicle proteins serve as effective biomarkers for diagnosing parasite infection
Authors: Wu Huixin , Giri Bikash R. , Li Huimin , Zheng Yameng , Yan Xiaoli , Cheng Guofeng
Published: May 2024

Schistosoma species are the causative agent of schistosomiasis and shows worldwide distribution. There is a great need to develop a sensitive diagnostic approach for controlling the disease. Previously, we identified large numbers of Extracellular Vesicle (EV) proteins from Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum), but rarely these proteins have been evaluated for their diagnostic potential. In the present study, we performed bioinformatic analyses of S. japonicum identified EV-associated proteins from the previous study and then identified Schistosoma-specific proteins with potentially secreted capability. Among them, we selected SJCHGC02838 protein, SJCHGC05593 protein, SJCHGC05668 protein and a hypothetical protein (SJHYP) to evaluate their diagnostic potential for detecting S. japonicum infection. First, we determined the expression of these four proteins at the transcript levels using qRT-PCR and revealed that all these genes showed higher expression in adult stage. Then, we cloned the full-length cDNA for each protein into a prokaryotic expression vector and successfully generated the recombinant proteins. Upon the purification of recombinant proteins, we developed an indirect ELISA method to evaluate the diagnostic potential of these purified recombinant proteins. The results showed high sensitivity for detecting Schistosoma infection. Additionally, these proteins also displayed a good potential for detecting Schistosoma infection, especially SJCHGC05668 protein at an early stage. The diagnostic potentials of these recombinant proteins were further evaluated by Western blot and comparatively analyzed by our previously developed cfDNA methods.
Research into the impact of an imbalanced teaching-academic research evaluation system on the quality of higher education: based on the mediation effect of the sense of belonging to a university
Authors: Wang Xiao-Wu , Zhang Yi-Cheng , Du Qiang
Published: May 2024

University faculties are duty-bound to shoulder the functions of both teaching and doing scientific research, but they have been repeatedly criticized for emphasizing research over teaching. The current study analyzes the imbalance between teaching and scientific research in faculty evaluation system from three aspects through both quality study and quantity study: the evaluation subject, the weights difference in promotion, and the prediction of salary. Based on that, the influential effects of unbalanced evaluation system on long-term development of education has been explored. The current study also puts forward the moderating effect of the sense of belonging to colleges and universities. The result shows organizational belonging can significantly weaken the negative effects of the unbalanced evaluation system on education. Based on this, this paper makes further suggestions on the construction of university faculties’ evaluation system and the promotion of their sense of belonging.
New industrial land use policy and firms’ green technology innovation in China—an empirical study based on double machine learning model
Authors: Gao Ziwang , Cai Lihui , Zhang Xiaolu
Published: May 2024

China is facing a serious land resource mismatch problem, which will profoundly affect the acceleration of economic growth and technological innovation. Reform of the industrial land allocation system can solve the mismatch of land resources, and that also has an important impact on the promotion of economic and technological development. This paper selects the data of Chinese A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2007 to 2020 as the research sample, constructs a double machine learning model, and empirically investigates the impact of a new industrial land use policy on firms’ green innovation behavior. The study shows that: (1) the new industrial land use policy significantly promotes firms’ substantive and strategic green technological innovation, and the effect on substantive green technological innovation is greater than that on strategic green technological innovation. (2) The enhancement of R&D investment sustainability and the “talent pool” effect are important mechanisms through which the new industrial land use policy influences firms’ substantive and strategic green technological innovation. Meanwhile, the new industrial land use policy is conducive to firms’ green co-innovation. (3) There is heterogeneity in the effect of the new industrial land use policy, which can significantly promote green technological innovation of firms in the eastern region, while it does not play a significant role in the green innovation behavior of firms in the central and western regions. The above research results enrich the research in the field of industrial land and innovation, help to understand more comprehensively the mechanism of new industrial land affecting firms’ green technological innovation, and provide policy insights for strengthening the application of industrial land allocation reform in firms’ green innovation.
The role and novel use of natural killer cells in graft-versus-leukemia reactions after allogeneic transplantation
Authors: Hadjis Ashley D. , McCurdy Shannon R.
Published: May 2024

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) has transformed over the past several decades through enhanced supportive care, reduced intensity conditioning (RIC), improved human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing, and novel graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-prevention and treatment strategies. Most notably, the implementation of post-transplantation cyclophosphamide (PTCy) has dramatically increased the safety and availability of this life-saving therapy. Given reductions in nonrelapse mortality (NRM) with these advances, the HCT community has placed even greater emphasis on developing ways to reduce relapse - the leading cause of death after HCT. When using RIC HCT, protection from relapse relies predominantly on graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) reactions. Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI), adoptive cellular therapy, checkpoint inhibition, and post-HCT maintenance strategies represent approaches under study that aim to augment or synergize with the GVL effects of HCT. Optimizing donor selection algorithms to leverage GVL represents another active area of research. Many of these strategies seek to harness the effects of T cells, which for decades were felt to be the primary mediators of GVL and the focus of investigation in relapse reduction. However, there is growing interest in capitalizing on the ability of natural killer (NK) cells to yield potent anti-tumor effects. A potential advantage of NK cell-based approaches over T cell-mediated is the potential to reduce NRM in addition to relapse. By decreasing infection, without increasing the risk of GVHD, NK cells may mitigate NRM, while still yielding relapse reduction through identification and clearance of cancer cells. Most T cell-focused relapse-prevention strategies must weigh the benefits of relapse reduction against the increased risk of NRM from GVHD. In contrast, NK cells have the potential to reduce both, potentially tipping the scales significantly in favor of survival. Here, we will review the role of NK cells in GVL, optimization of NK cell match or mismatch, and burgeoning areas of research in NK cell therapy such as adoptive transfer and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) NK cells.
Newer generations of multi-target CAR and STAb-T immunotherapeutics: NEXT CART Consortium as a cooperative effort to overcome current limitations
Authors: Martín-Antonio Beatriz , Blanco Belén , González-Murillo África , Hidalgo Laura , Minguillón Jordi , Pérez-Chacón Gema ,   Next Generation CART MAD Consortium
Published: May 2024

Adoptive T cellular immunotherapies have emerged as relevant approaches for treating cancer patients who have relapsed or become refractory (R/R) to traditional cancer treatments. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has improved survival in various hematological malignancies. However, significant limitations still impede the widespread adoption of these therapies in most cancers. To advance in this field, six research groups have created the “NEXT Generation CART MAD Consortium” (NEXT CART) in Madrid’s Community, which aims to develop novel cell-based immunotherapies for R/R and poor prognosis cancers. At NEXT CART, various basic and translational research groups and hospitals in Madrid concur to share and synergize their basic expertise in immunotherapy, gene therapy, and immunological synapse, and clinical expertise in pediatric and adult oncology. NEXT CART goal is to develop new cell engineering approaches and treatments for R/R adult and pediatric neoplasms to evaluate in multicenter clinical trials. Here, we discuss the current limitations of T cell-based therapies and introduce our perspective on future developments. Advancement opportunities include developing allogeneic products, optimizing CAR signaling domains, combining cellular immunotherapies, multi-targeting strategies, and improving tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs)/T cell receptor (TCR) therapy. Furthermore, basic studies aim to identify novel tumor targets, tumor molecules in the tumor microenvironment that impact CAR efficacy, and strategies to enhance the efficiency of the immunological synapse between immune and tumor cells. Our perspective of current cellular immunotherapy underscores the potential of these treatments while acknowledging the existing hurdles that demand innovative solutions to develop their potential for cancer treatment fully.
Efficiency enhancement of non-fullerene organic solar cells using PEDOT:PSS diluted with alcohol solvents as the hole transport layer
Authors: Han Tingting , Gao Chuanlin , Sun Kangbo , Zhu Liangxiang , Wang Lihong , Liang Wenting , Miao Yanqin , Wang Yufei , Qiu Mingxia , Li Shunpu , Zhang Guangye
Published: May 2024

The poly3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) hole transport layer (HTL) has always played a crucial role in achieving high-efficiency organic solar cells (OSCs) owing to its unique advantages of suitable energy levels and high optical transparency. However, the inherent insulation and easy aggregation property of PSS results in relatively low conductivity and high surface roughness of the PEDOT:PSS film, which is unfavorable for charge transport and the morphology of the top layer. To address these problems, we use PEDOT:PSS diluted in a series of alcoholic solvents and evaluate them on the PM6:Y6 system. Among these, the PM6:Y6 devices using PEDOT:PSS modified with ethanol as the HTL demonstrate the best vertical phase segregation and carrier extraction. In addition, the PEDOT:PSS film with added ethanol also has the smoothest surface compared to those diluted in the other alcoholic solvents. Finally, a high power conversion efficiency of 18.13% was obtained with the PM6:Y6 devices based on PEDOT:PSS modified by ethanol. This work provides a sufficient reference for the alcoholic modification of PEDOT:PSS and also proposes a feasible solution for high-efficiency OSCs.
OHDSI-compliance: a set of document templates facilitating the implementation and operation of a software stack for real-world evidence generation
Authors: Wirth Felix N. , Abu Attieh Hammam , Prasser Fabian
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The open-source software offered by the Observational Health Data Science and Informatics (OHDSI) collective, including the OMOP-CDM, serves as a major backbone for many real-world evidence networks and distributed health data analytics platforms. While container technology has significantly simplified deployments from a technical perspective, regulatory compliance can remain a major hurdle for the setup and operation of such platforms. In this paper, we present OHDSI-Compliance, a comprehensive set of document templates designed to streamline the data protection and information security-related documentation and coordination efforts required to establish OHDSI installations.

Methods

To decide on a set of relevant document templates, we first analyzed the legal requirements and associated guidelines with a focus on the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Moreover, we analyzed the software architecture of a typical OHDSI stack and related its components to the different general types of concepts and documentation identified. Then, we created those documents for a prototypical OHDSI installation, based on the so-called Broadsea package, following relevant guidelines from Germany. Finally, we generalized the documents by introducing placeholders and options at places where individual institution-specific content will be needed.

Results

We present four documents: (1) a record of processing activities, (2) an information security concept, (3) an authorization concept, as well as (4) an operational concept covering the technical details of maintaining the stack. The documents are publicly available under a permissive license.

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, there are no other publicly available sets of documents designed to simplify the compliance process for OHDSI deployments. While our documents provide a comprehensive starting point, local specifics need to be added, and, due to the heterogeneity of legal requirements in different countries, further adoptions might be necessary.
Sedentary behavior patterns and bone health among overweight/obesity older women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: He Yixian , Du Litao , Li Qingqian , Ren Xiaoyu , Chen Si , Pan Yang
Published: May 2024

Background

Recent studies have indicated an association between sedentary behavior (SB), particularly patterns of SB, and bone health. However, it remains uncertain how different patterns of SB in overweight/obesity older women impact their bone health. This study aimed to investigate the association between objectively measured SB patterns and bone health in Chinese community-dwelling overweight/obesity older women.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were obtained from a baseline survey of Physical Activity and Health in Older Women Study. Quantitative ultrasound was used to measure speed of sound (SOS), broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA), bone quality index (BQI) and T value to evaluate bone health. SB patterns were measured using triaxial accelerometers, including sedentary time in SB bouts of ≥ 10, 30, and 60 min, number of SB bouts ≥ 10, 30, and 60 min. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the associations of different SB patterns with bone health.

Results

After adjusting for confounders, sedentary time in SB bouts ≥ 60 min, number of SB bouts ≥ 60 min were significantly associated with bone health, with a lower SOS [β = −2.75, 95% confidence interval (CI): −4.96 to −0.53, P = 0.015], BUA (β = −1.20, 95% CI: −2.14 to −0.26, P = 0.013), BQI (β = −1.56, 95% CI: −2.63 to −0.49, P = 0.004), T value (β = −0.08, 95% CI: −0.14 to −0.03, P = 0.004) per 60 min increase of sedentary time in SB bouts ≥ 60 min, and a lower SOS (β = −3.97, 95% CI: −7.54 to −0.40, P = 0.029), BUA (β = −1.80, 95% CI: −3.44 to −0.16, P = 0.031), BQI (β = −2.28, 95% CI: −4.08 to −0.47, P = 0.014) and T value (β = −0.12, 95% CI: −0.22 to −0.03, P = 0.013) per bout increase of SB bouts ≥ 60 min, respectively.

Conclusion

Limiting the duration of prolonged sedentary bouts and minimizing the occurrence of number of SB bouts ≥ 60 min could be essential in bone health management, especially for those older people who are overweight/obesity.
Efficacy and safety of Apixaban in the treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: a multi-center study
Authors: Simaan Naaem , Metanis Issa , Honig Asaf , Hallevi Hen , Filioglo Andrei , Mendel Rom , Barnea Rani , Naftali Jonathan , Auriel Eitan , Aladdin Shorooq , Orion David , Dally Najib , Leker Ronen R. , Molad Jeremy
Published: May 2024

Background

Information regarding the safety and efficacy of specific direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in the treatment of cerebral sinus and venous thrombosis (CSVT) is scarce. Apixaban is one of the most frequently prescribed DOACs. Therefore, we aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of Apixaban with those of vitamin k antagonists (VKA) in patients with CSVT.

Methods

Prospective CSVT databases from seven academic medical centers were retrospectively analyzed. Patients treated with Apixaban were compared to those treated with VKA. Data on demographics, clinical presentations, risk factors, radiological and outcome parameters were studied.

Results

Overall, 403 patients were included in the analysis. Of them, 48 (12%) were treated with Apixaban, and 355 (88%) were treated with VKA. Rates of coagulopathies were significantly higher in the VKA-treated patients but no other differences between the groups were found in baseline characteristics and underlying etiology. No significant differences were found between groups in efficacy or safety parameters including the rates of recanalization, favorable outcomes, one-year mortality, seizures, intracranial hemorrhage or CSVT recurrences.

Conclusion

Our data suggests that Apixaban may be safe and effective for patients with CSVT. These results should be tested in prospective randomized clinical studies.
Systematic review of memory assessment in virtual reality: evaluating convergent and divergent validity with traditional neuropsychological measures
Authors: Mancuso Valentina , Sarcinella Eleonora Diletta , Bruni Francesca , Arlati Sara , Di Santo Simona Gabriella , Cavallo Marco , Cipresso Pietro , Pedroli Elisa
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The evaluation of memory is a crucial aspect of both cognitive research and clinical applications, as it offers valuable insights into an individual’s cognitive wellbeing and performance. Conventional neuropsychological assessments represent the established method for assessing different aspects of memory. Recent technological advancements, specifically in the field of virtual reality (VR), have introduced novel methods for evaluating memory.

Objective

This systematic review aims to examine the current state of memory assessment using VR technologies, assessing the degree of convergence and divergence between VR-based memory assessments and conventional neuropsychological tests.

Method

A systematic review of the literature was conducted searching PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science databases, leading to the incorporation of 24 studies. Studies were grouped according to the examined memory domain (episodic, prospective, spatial domain). Convergence and divergence validity were examined for each, and information on software and hardware features was collected.

Results

This review demonstrates a notable alignment between VR-based memory assessments and conventional neuropsychological tests. Moreover, VR tasks have shown to exhibit associations with executive functions and overall cognitive performance. The inclusion of various ecological contexts, such as residential environments, commercial establishments, and simulated scenarios, serves to augment the ecological validity of memory evaluations conducted in VR.

Discussion

The findings indicate that VR assessments demonstrate a functional perspective by effectively capturing the dynamic relationship between memory, executive functions, and overall cognitive performance. Nevertheless, it is imperative to acknowledge and tackle certain constraints that may hinder the widespread adoption and utilization of VR tasks. These limitations encompass factors such as restricted accessibility to VR tasks and the presence of heterogeneity in VR hardware and software. The dynamic and ever-changing nature of VR technology presents a range of potential avenues for future investigation and utilization in the domain of memory evaluation.
Clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes in adult patients with germline BRCA1/2-mutated, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer: a retrospective medical record review in the United States
Authors: Obeid Elias , Parikh Rohan C. , Esterberg Elizabeth , Arondekar Bhakti , Hitchens Abigail , Arruda Lillian Shahied , Niyazov Alexander , Whitaker Kristen
Published: May 2024

Aim

To examine clinical characteristics, real-world treatment patterns, and health outcomes among patients with germline BRCA1/2-mutated, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)–negative advanced breast cancer (ABC).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted using medical records from patients with HER2-negative ABC with BRCA1/2 mutation who received cytotoxic chemotherapy. Data were stratified into groups with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) or hormone receptor–positive (HR+)/HER2-negative diagnoses. Time-to-event outcomes (i.e., real-world progression-free survival [rwPFS] and overall survival [OS]) were calculated to summarize health outcomes.

Results

When diagnosed with ABC, most patients were younger than 60 years (mean age = 57.3 years), were white (76.4%), and had a family history of BRCA-related cancer (71.5%). A total of 305 patient records were examined; 194 patients (63.6%) had advanced TNBC, and 111 patients (36.4%) had HR+/HER2-negative ABC. Chemotherapy was primarily used as first-line treatment for both subgroups, but the TNBC subgroup received poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors at triple the rate as a second-line treatment and double the rate as a third-line treatment compared with the HR+/HER2-negative subgroup. Two-year OS rates were similar between the TNBC (73.9%) and the HR+/HER2-negative subgroups (77.0%), and anemia, nausea, and neutropenia were the most commonly reported toxicities across all treatments.

Conclusion

Clinicians should consider the use of targeted agents such as PARP inhibitors in earlier lines of therapy for ABC given the growing evidence that PARP inhibitors may improve PFS compared with chemotherapy while potentially offering a more manageable toxicity profile and improved quality of life.
Impact of cavity shave margins in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ undergoing conserving breast surgery
Authors: Vanni Gianluca , Pellicciaro Marco , Materazzo Marco , Marsella Valentina , Usai Valeria , Noce Annalisa , Buonomo Oreste Claudio
Published: May 2024

Aim

The main challenge during breast-conserving surgery (BCS) is to obtain clear margins, especially in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) due to the absence of well-defined nodules. Many surgical approaches have been used in an attempt to reduce the positive margin rate. The aim of this retrospective study is to compare the cavity shave margin technique with standard surgery and the intraoperative evaluation of surgical margins.

Methods

This is a single-center retrospective study analyzing margin status, need for re-excision, and surgical time in a cohort of 227 patients who underwent surgery from September 2016 to September 2022.

Results

In patients subjected to cavity shaving, we reported a significant reduction in positive margins of 17.1% versus 28.7% (p-value = 0.042). Also, a difference in terms of surgical re-excision was reported as p-value = 0.039 (12.4% versus 23.8%, respectively, for the cavity shave and control group). In the multivariate analysis, intraoperative evaluation of the margins was a risk factor for margins re-excision (Wald = 4.315, p = 0.038, OR: 2.331 [95% CI: 1.049–5.180]). Surgical time was lower in patients subjected to cavity shaves (p = 0.024), and the relative mean time was 68.4 min ± 37.1 min in the cavity shave group versus 93.9 min ± 40.6 min in the control group.

Conclusion

The cavity shave margin technique in conserving breast surgery results in a reduction in positive margin rate, surgical re-excision, and operative time.
Leprosy: Comprehensive insights into pathology, immunology, and cutting-edge treatment strategies, integrating nanoparticles and ethnomedicinal plants
Authors: Kimta Neetika , Majdalawieh Amin F. , Nasrallah Gheyath K. , Puri Sunil , Nepovimova Eugenie , Jomova Klaudia , Kuča Kamil
Published: May 2024

Mycobacterium leprae is the causative agent responsible for the chronic disease known as leprosy. This condition is characterized by dermal involvement, often leading to peripheral nerve damage, sensory-motor loss, and related abnormalities. Both innate and acquired immunological responses play a role in the disease, and even in individuals with lepromatous leprosy, there can be a transient increase in T cell immunity during lepromatous reactions. Diagnosing of early-stage leprosy poses significant challenges. In this context, nanoparticles have emerged as a promising avenue for addressing various crucial issues related to leprosy. These include combatting drug resistance, mitigating adverse effects of conventional medications, and enhancing targeted drug delivery. This review serves as a comprehensive compilation, encompassing aspects of pathology, immunology, and adverse effects of multidrug delivery systems in the context of leprosy treatment. Furthermore, the review underscores the significance of ethnomedicinal plants, bioactive secondary metabolites, and nanotherapeutics in the management of leprosy. It emphasizes the potential to bridge the gap between existing literature and ongoing research efforts, with a profound scope for validating traditional claims, developing herbal medicines, and formulating nanoscale drug delivery systems that are safe, effective, and widely accepted.
Improvement of cool-season food legumes for adaptation to intercropping systems: breeding faba bean for intercropping with durum wheat as a case study
Authors: Abou Khater Lynn , Maalouf Fouad , Balech Rind , He Yuhua , Zong Xuxiao , Rubiales Diego , Kumar Shiv
Published: May 2024

Although the transition toward a more sustainable agricultural system is sparking the interest of scientists and farmers around the globe, breeding programs are still focusing on optimizing cultivars intended for the monoculture system, and most cultivars available on the market are not suitable for intercropping. The incorporation of versatile cool-season food legumes (CSFLs) in the intercropping system is a promising way toward more diversified and sustainable cropping systems. However, as the selection of good-performing cultivars under sole cropping does not always lead to a good performance in intercropping, the development of an alternative breeding scheme for intercropping is now a necessity. The case study of faba bean–wheat intercropping was used to select for traits associated with better performance of faba bean, resulting in identifying the combined grain yield, 100-seed weight, number of pods per plant, and canopy height as key traits for faba bean–wheat intercropping suitability. Incorporating these traits in the breeding programs would be the cornerstone of the prospective transition.
Temperature extremes nip invasive macrophyte Cabomba caroliniana A. Gray in the bud: potential geographic distributions and risk assessment based on future climate change and anthropogenic influences
Authors: Xian Xiaoqing , Qi Yuhan , Zhao Haoxiang , Cao Jingjing , Jia Tao , Yang Nianwan , Wan Fanghao , Weyl Philip , Liu Wan-xue
Published: May 2024

Cabomba caroliniana A. Gray, an ornamental submerged plant indigenous to tropical America, has been introduced to numerous countries in Europe, Asia, and Oceania, impacting native aquatic ecosystems. Given this species is a popular aquarium plant and widely traded, there is a high risk of introduction and invasion into other environments. In the current study the potential global geographic distribution of C. caroliniana was predicted under the effects of climate change and human influence in an optimised MaxEnt model. The model used rigorously screened occurrence records of C. caroliniana from hydro informatic datasets and 20 associated influencing factors. The findings indicate that temperature and human-mediated activities significantly influenced the distribution of C. caroliniana. At present, C. caroliniana covers an area of approximately 1531×104 km2 of appropriate habitat, especially in the south-eastern parts of South, central and North America, Southeast Asia, eastern Australia, and most of Europe. The suitable regions are anticipated to expand under future climate scenarios; however, the dynamics of the changes vary between different extents of climate change. For example, C. caroliniana is expected to expand to higher latitudes, following global temperature increases under SSP1–2.6 and SSP2–4.5 scenarios, however, intolerance to temperature extremes may mediate invasion at higher latitudes under future extreme climate scenarios, e.g., SSP5–8.5. Owing to the severe impacts its invasion causes, early warning and stringent border quarantine processes are required to guard against the introduction of C. caroliniana especially in the invasion hotspots such as, Peru, Italy, and South Korea.
Similarity judgements: the comparison of normative predictions and subjective evaluations – A study of the ratio model of similarity in social context
Authors: Jabłońska Magdalena Zyta , Falkowski Andrzej , Mackiewicz Robert
Published: May 2024

Introduction

This study examines the consistency between subjective similarity evaluations and the theoretical predictions derived from Tversky’s ratio model of similarity, alongside the impact of additional positive and negative features on perceived similarity to ideal and bad politicians.

Methods

Using a sample of 120 participants, we assessed the similarity of eight candidate profiles to an ideal and bad politician, varying in positive and negative features. Participants’ subjective evaluations were compared with theoretical predictions derived from Tversky’s ratio model. The analysis focused on how candidate and referent valence influenced observed versus theoretical similarity.

Results

Subjective similarity judgments deviated systematically from theoretical predictions, especially for positively featured candidates, indicating a negativity effect. Additional positive features decreased the perceived similarity of favorable candidates to an ideal politician, while additional negative features did not significantly affect similarity judgments of unfavorable candidates.

Discussion

Our findings underscore a significant disparity between subjective and objective similarity judgments, notably for favorable candidates. While the ratio model performs well for unfavorable candidates, its applicability diminishes for favorable ones, emphasizing the role of feature valence in decision-making. Further research on feature valence is crucial for a comprehensive understanding across contexts.
Chinese undergraduates' mental health help-seeking behavior: the health belief model
Authors: Wang Haojing , Feng Zhuowen , Zheng Zitong , Yang Jiachen
Published: May 2024

The detection rate of mental health problems among undergraduates has recently risen significantly. However, undergraduates underutilize mental health services; approximately a third only of undergraduates in need of treatment use school counseling resources. Based on a social psychological theoretical framework, the health belief model, factors of undergraduates' willingness to seek help when dealing with psychological problems were investigated. A cross-sectional online questionnaire and a snowball sampling method with 446 undergraduates investigated perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived behavioral benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action to understand how students' mental health-seeking behaviors are affected. We found that perceived susceptibility (p < 0.01), perceived severity (p < 0.01), perceived benefits (p < 0.01), perceived barriers (p < 0.01), self-efficacy (p < 0.01), and cues to action (p < 0.01) significantly correlated with behavioral intention. Encouragement or counseling from others would be more likely to motivate undergraduates to seek mental health help. In addition, we used a bias-corrected Bootstrap approach to test the significance of the mediating effect, the mediation effect of cues to action between undergraduates' perceived susceptibility and mental health help-seeking behavior was utterly significant [mediation effect value of 0.077, with an SE value of 0.027 and a 95% CI (0.028, 0.133)]. It demonstrated that those who perceived themselves to be at high risk of developing a mental illness and who had received encouragement or counseling to seek mental health help were more likely to be motivated to seek mental health help. Multiple regression analyses indicated that self-efficacy (Z = 5.425, p < 0.01) and cues to action (Z = 6.673, p < 0.01) independently influenced behavioral intentions. Encouragement or counseling from others would be more likely to motivate undergraduates to seek mental health help.
VR-assisted aggression treatment in forensic psychiatry: a qualitative study in patients with severe mental disorders
Authors: González Moraga Fernando Renee , Enebrink Pia , Perrin Sean , Sygel Kristina , Veling Wim , Wallinius Märta
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Improvements in virtual reality (VR) have made it possible to create realistic, virtual settings for behavioral assessment and skills training that cannot otherwise be accessed in a safe way in forensic psychiatric settings. VR interventions are under development but little is known how forensic psychiatric patients with severe mental disorders experience VR-assisted assessments or treatments.

Methods

The present study aimed to help fill this knowledge gap via qualitative interviews with seven patients with severe mental disorders at a high-security forensic psychiatric clinic who had completed the newly revised Virtual Reality Aggression Prevention Training (VRAPT). All participants were interviewed 12 weeks after the VRAPT intervention, and interview data analyzed with manifest inductive content analysis.

Results

Six manifest content categories were identified: 1. Therapeutic process, 2. VRAPT method, 3. VR technology, 4. Previous treatment experiences, 5. Challenges to treatment of aggression, and 6. Unexpected experiences. The participants had diverse experiences related to both the VRAPT intervention and forensic psychiatric care. Participants described a mixture of positive experiences in relation to VR-assisted role-plays, and less positive in relation to motivation for aggression-focused treatment and technological limitations.

Discussion

The present findings suggest further studies are needed on how to best implement VR-assisted treatments for aggression in forensic settings, and potentially further modification of treatment content in interventions like VRAPT.
Susceptibility to e-cigarette adoption among tobacco-naïve youths: a cross-sectional study in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Yan Ruilin , Liu Yanhong , Huang Li , Li Yanrou , Huang Yun , Tong Jing , Deng Yongzheng , Yuan Qing
Published: May 2024

Background

The rise in e-cigarette use among youth is a significant global public health issue. It is important to identify those at increased risk and implement effective strategies to reduce e-cigarette popularity among the youth.

Objective

This study aims to identify predictors of e-cigarette uptake in youths with no prior tobacco use, considering individual, familial and the broader societal environmental factors.

Methods

For this investigation, a group of 2,487 tobacco-free youths was selected from 15 high schools in Shenzhen, China. Susceptibility to e-cigarettes was determined by assessing the possibility of future use and the openness to trying e-cigarettes if presented by friends. Both chi-square tests and logistic regression were applied to identify factors linked to susceptibility to e-cigarette use.

Results

Among the respondents, 5.5% (n = 136) were found to be susceptible to e-cigarette use. The analysis revealed factors tied to this risk: perceptions of e-cigarettes, the impact of vaping peers, paternal parenting styles, the extent of social support, exposure to messages both for and against e-cigarettes use, and secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure. Youths who downplayed the addictive nature of e-cigarettes (aOR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.14–3.55; p = 0.016), those with friends who engaged in vaping (aOR = 3.43–7.64; 95%CI: 2.36–20.42; p < 0.001), those experiencing over-protective or rejective maternal parenting (aOR = 1.68–3.01; 95%CI: 1.11–5.77; p = 0.001–0.014) or rejective paternal parenting (aOR = 3.63; 95%CI: 1.99–6.59; p < 0.001), those aware of e-cigarette advertisements (aOR = 1.82; 95%CI: 1.28–2.60; p = 0.001), and those exposed to SHS at home (aOR = 1.68; 95%CI: 1.17–2.41; p = 0.005) or at public places (aOR = 1.72–1.79; 95%CI: 1.21–2.57; p = 0.002–0.003) were more prone to e-cigarettes. In contrast, youths who believed using e-cigarettes reduces one’s attractiveness (aOR = 0.34; 95%CI: 0.16–0.72; p = 0.005) or perceived that vaping made social interactions less enjoyable (aOR = 0.26; 95%CI: 0.12–0.58; p = 0.001), those who benefited from high social support (aOR = 0.30–0.60; 95%CI: 0.17–0.97; p < 0.001), and those who noticed message about e-cigarettes’ adverse consequence (aOR = 0.54; 95%CI: 0.38–0.77; p = 0.001) were less likely to be inclined toward e-cigarette use.

Conclusion

The propensity of the youth to e-cigarette usage is shaped by a multiple element. An all-encompassing strategy that addresses the individual, familial, and the broader societal aspects is imperative for the effective prevention of e-cigarette initiation among youth.
Opinion review of drug resistant tuberculosis in West Africa: tackling the challenges for effective control
Authors: Otchere Isaac Darko , Asante-Poku Adwoa , Akpadja Kodjo Francis , Diallo Awa Ba , Sanou Adama , Asare Prince , Osei-Wusu Stephen , Onyejepu Nneka , Diarra Bassirou , Dagnra Yaotsè Anoumou , Kehinde Aderemi , Antonio Martin , Yeboah-Manu Dorothy
Published: May 2024

Drug-resistant (DR) tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern globally, complicating TB control and management efforts. West Africa has historically faced difficulty in combating DR-TB due to limited diagnostic skills, insufficient access to excellent healthcare, and ineffective healthcare systems. This has aided in the emergence and dissemination of DR Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) strains in the region. In the past, DR-TB patients faced insufficient resources, fragmented efforts, and suboptimal treatment outcomes. However, current efforts to combat DR-TB in the region are promising. These efforts include strengthening diagnostic capacities, improving access to quality healthcare services, and implementing evidence-based treatment regimens for DR-TB. Additionally, many West African National TB control programs are collaborating with international partners to scale up laboratory infrastructure, enhance surveillance systems, and promote infection control measures. Moreso, novel TB drugs and regimens, such as bedaquiline and delamanid, are being introduced to improve treatment outcomes for DR-TB cases. Despite these obstacles, there is optimism for the future of DR-TB control in West Africa. Investments are being made to improve healthcare systems, expand laboratory capacity, and support TB research and innovation. West African institutions are now supporting knowledge sharing, capacity building, and resource mobilization through collaborative initiatives such as the West African Network for TB, AIDS, and Malaria (WANETAM), the West African Health Organization (WAHO), and other regional or global partners. These efforts hold promise for improved diagnostics, optimized treatment regimens, and provide better patient outcomes in the future where drug-resistant TB in WA can be effectively controlled, reducing the burden of the disease, and improving the health outcomes of affected individuals.
Selectively advantageous instability in biotic and pre-biotic systems and implications for evolution and aging
Authors: Tower John
Published: May 2024

Rules of biology typically involve conservation of resources. For example, common patterns such as hexagons and logarithmic spirals require minimal materials, and scaling laws involve conservation of energy. Here a relationship with the opposite theme is discussed, which is the selectively advantageous instability (SAI) of one or more components of a replicating system, such as the cell. By increasing the complexity of the system, SAI can have benefits in addition to the generation of energy or the mobilization of building blocks. SAI involves a potential cost to the replicating system for the materials and/or energy required to create the unstable component, and in some cases, the energy required for its active degradation. SAI is well-studied in cells. Short-lived transcription and signaling factors enable a rapid response to a changing environment, and turnover is critical for replacement of damaged macromolecules. The minimal gene set for a viable cell includes proteases and a nuclease, suggesting SAI is essential for life. SAI promotes genetic diversity in several ways. Toxin/antitoxin systems promote maintenance of genes, and SAI of mitochondria facilitates uniparental transmission. By creating two distinct states, subject to different selective pressures, SAI can maintain genetic diversity. SAI of components of synthetic replicators favors replicator cycling, promoting emergence of replicators with increased complexity. Both classical and recent computer modeling of replicators reveals SAI. SAI may be involved at additional levels of biological organization. In summary, SAI promotes replicator genetic diversity and reproductive fitness, and may promote aging through loss of resources and maintenance of deleterious alleles.
Isokinetic quadriceps physiotherapy after knee surgery: a retrospective study
Authors: Nikolić Siniša , Obradović Borislav , Dimitrijević Vanja , Rašković Bojan , Dragičević-Cvjetković Dragana
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Quadriceps weakness after knee surgery is the most common consequence that can have different consequences not only for the knee itself but also for the locomotor system in general. This study aimed to compare the results of isokinetic and isotonic exercise on torque restoration quadriceps on knee surgery.

Methods

A sample of 180 subjects was analyzed and divided into two subsamples according to the type of rehabilitation protocol that was implemented. The examined group A-isokinetic consisted of 90 male subjects aged 28.54 ± 4.44 years, with a rehabilitation protocol based on the isokinetic exercise of the quadriceps. The examined group B-isotonic also consisted of 90 male subjects aged 27.93 ± 4.27 years, with a rehabilitation protocol for strengthening the quadriceps that applied an exercise program with additional resistance, i.e., isotonic exercise in the gym. Before the start of the rehabilitation treatment, an initial isokinetic test was performed at an angular speed of 60 °/s in all subjects. After 3 and 6 weeks of rehabilitation treatment, the control tests were performed in the same way as in the initial test.

Results

Based on the values of MANOVA analysis and discriminative analysis, significantly better results of isokinetic tests were found in the examined group A-isokinetic compared with those in the examined group B-isotonic. At the final measurement of group A, 83 respondents (92.2%) were placed in the “biggest” class out of the 90 respondents.

Conclusion

Based on the obtained research results, we conclude that isokinetic exercise is more effective in terms of physiotherapy of quadriceps hypotrophy after knee surgery.
Playing online videogames—more than just entertainment? A qualitative study of virtual social participation in persons with spinal cord injury
Authors: Nilsen R. , Johansen T. , Løvstad M. , Linnestad A. M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects many aspects of life, physically, emotionally and socially. Engaging in online videogames holds the potential to facilitate increased social interactions for individuals with SCI. The aim of this study is to increase our understanding of the experiences people with SCI have with using online videogames as an arena for social participation.

Methods

A focus group interview was conducted with seven participants with SCI, aged 15–35, all experienced in using online videogames as a method of socializing. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

The participants highlighted that playing online videogames way of maintaining social connections and expanding their social network. However, they faced challenges due to limited knowledge and negative attitudes from others regarding use of videogames as a social arena. Three main themes were developed from the findings: “Disabling social barriers”, “Attitudes towards gaming” and “Gaming—connecting people”.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals should consider videogames as a leisure activity and facilitate their use, recognizing their potential for social interaction and well-being. Prioritizing activities that promote social interaction is crucial for good health.