bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of the origin, organic production and other extrinsic parameters in fruit and vegetable choices
Authors: Fuentes Ana , Tormo Eva , Barat Jose M. , Fernández-Segovia Isabel
Published: October 2023

The aims of the present work were to evaluate consumers’ perceptions and purchasing habits in relation to fruit and vegetables and to determine the importance of the production type, price and geographical origin of such products for consumers’ purchasing decisions. For this purpose, an online consumer survey was conducted to determine Spanish people's opinions and consumption habits in relation to fruit and vegetables, especially those from organic farming. The survey also included a part to assess the importance that consumers attach to different extrinsic attributes in oranges and avocado pears (with a conjoint analysis), and a section to determine the participants’ ethnocentrism. Consumers agree that organic food respects the environment more, contains fewer ‘chemicals’ and is more natural. Price is the first reason why many people do not buy organic food, followed by them thinking that they do not offer any added value and they are difficult to find. For the Spanish population, country of origin, local production, seasonality and price are much more important attributes for purchasing fruit and vegetables than them being organic. This study reflects a relatively high ethnocentrism level of the surveyed population, especially in older individuals. Given consumer preference for km 0/local and seasonal products, and the importance of these parameters for the environment, promoting the market of such products would help to achieve some Sustainable Development Goals. This study offers a vision of the trends of Spanish consumers in relation to fruit and vegetable preferences, which can help producers and distributors to design new strategies that focus on meeting consumer demands.
Skeletal Growth Arrest Lines in Fetal Remains: Histopathology and Correlative Placental Pathology
Authors: Chu Tsz Wing , Shannon Patrick , Parks Tony
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Skeletal growth arrest lines (GAL) are transverse lines of metaphyseal radiodensity accompanying episodic severe physiological stress. They are poorly described in fetal remains.

Materials and Methods:

We searched our autopsy practice for instances of fetal GAL in post mortem radiology, and correlated them with long bone histology and placental pathology. We describe the appearance, distribution, and pathology of GAL in a cohort of fetal autopsies, and compare the placental pathology accompanying GAL to the placental pathology of asymmetrical growth restriction (AGR) in the same time period.

Results:

In 2108 consecutive fetal post mortems, we found 20 cases with GAL. About 16 were in singletons with AGR. In these 16, the distribution of placental pathologies was similar to a contemporaneous cohort of 113 cases with AGR. Of the remaining 4, two twins out of 9 sets of monochorionic twins with AGR demonstrated GAL. One case of GAL had symmetrical growth restriction with cytomegalovirus infection, and one case had no AGR and an old, unexplained retroplacental hemorrhage. On histology, GAL are characterized by a region of mineralized chondroid, which is variably incorporated into irregular trabecular bone.

Discussion:

GALs accompany a variety of placental pathologies and twin-twin transfusion, suggesting episodic disease progression.
Low-intensity resistance exercise with blood flow restriction for patients with claudication: A randomized controlled feasibility trial
Authors: Parkington Thomas , Broom David , Maden-Wilkinson Thomas , Nawaz Shah , Klonizakis Markos
Published: October 2023

Background:

Claudication is a common and debilitating symptom of peripheral artery disease, resulting in poor exercise performance and quality of life (QoL). Supervised exercise programs are an effective rehabilitation for patients with claudication, but they are poorly adhered to, in part due to the high pain and effort associated with walking, aerobic, and resistance exercise. Low-intensity resistance exercise with blood flow restriction (BFR) represents an alternative exercise method for individuals who are intolerant to high-intensity protocols. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a supervised BFR program in patients with claudication.

Methods:

Thirty patients with stable claudication completed an 8-week supervised exercise program and were randomized to either BFR ( n = 15) or a control of matched exercise without BFR (control; n = 15). Feasibility, safety, and efficacy were assessed.

Results:

All success criteria of the feasibility trial were met. Exercise adherence was high (BFR = 78.3%, control = 83.8%), loss to follow up was 10%, and there were no adverse events. Clinical improvement in walking was achieved in 86% of patients in the BFR group but in only 46% of patients in the control group. Time to claudication pain during walking increased by 35% for BFR but was unchanged for the control. QoL for the BFR group showed improved mobility, ability to do usual activities, pain, depression, and overall health at follow up.

Conclusion:

A supervised blood flow restriction program is feasible in patients with claudication and has the potential to increase exercise performance, reduce pain, and improve QoL. (Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT04890275)
Analytical assessment of the full-bridge response to the vertical live load: An algorithm for hybrid cable-stayed suspension bridges
Authors: Zhang Wen-ming , Chen Jie , Chang Jia-qi , Tian Gen-min , Liu Tian-cheng
Published: October 2023

Hybrid cable-stayed suspension bridges combine the advantages of cable-stayed and suspension bridges, mitigating their deficiencies. Due to its super spanning ability, this novel form of bridge enjoys a bright application prospect as a large-span structure. This study introduces an analytical algorithm to estimate the full-bridge response of a hybrid cable-stayed suspension bridge with a vertical uniformly distributed load applied to the main beam. This method is based on the assumption that all parameters, such as the geometric configuration, internal force distribution, and material properties, of the whole bridge under a dead load are known; then, it analyzes the full-bridge response under a live load. First, the minimum and independent basic unknown parameters of the full-bridge response are determined. Next, the governing equations are derived and solved based on the conservation of unstressed length of each section of cable, closure of span lengths and elevation difference in different spans, and conditions for stress balance of the main beam. Thus, the values of basic unknown parameters are obtained. Finally, they are substituted into the governing equations to estimate the full-bridge response, including each bridge component’s internal forces and deflections. The proposed analytical method involves no iterative procedures when dealing with nonlinear problems but only focuses on the bridge’s state with and without loading. The results are obtained directly by solving the equations, which have the advantages of high efficiency, simplicity, and clear physical meaning. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified by a finite-element-based calculation of an exemplary asymmetric cable-stayed suspension cooperation system bridge with a main span of 1400 m.
Acoustic characteristics of jets impinging on permeable plates
Authors: Dhamanekar Abhijit , Srinivasan K
Published: October 2023

This article explores the acoustic characteristics and the relevant flow features of jets impinging on permeable plates. Noise generated due to the interaction of the jet with permeable plates is compared with jets impinging on an impermeable plate and the corresponding free jet. This study systematically measures various parameters, including pore size, porosity, and pressure drop, to precisely quantify the permeability of the plates using the Forchheimer equation. The focus is on investigating the impact of permeability on noise reduction. An acoustic study is performed by carrying out blow-up and blow-down tests to find the effect of permeability at different nozzle pressure ratios and different nozzle-plate spacings. An extensive directivity study is conducted to find the directionality of acoustic emissions and calculate acoustic power. It is found that the overall sound pressure level is lower for the jets impinging on the permeable plates compared to the impermeable plates in subsonic cases. It is also observed that the insertion of the permeable plates in supersonic jets generates less noise compared to the corresponding free jet. It is found that most of the tones are absent in the case of permeable plates for supersonic jets, whereas the tones are present with lesser amplitude compared to jets impinging on impermeable plates for subsonic and transonic jets. Finally, flow measurement and flow visualization studies are carried out to understand the flow physics responsible for the noise variance. This study illuminates that the passage of flow through the porous plate results in the reduction of wall-jet velocities, thereby suppressing the turbulent mixing noise. The absence of shock oscillations in front of the permeable plate is identified as the cause of the mitigation of impinging tones.
Bayesian forces identification in cable networks with small bending stiffness
Authors: Piciucco Davide , Foti Francesco , Geuzaine Margaux , Denoël Vincent
Published: October 2023

The regular monitoring of cable forces is essential for ensuring the safety of cable structures both during construction and throughout their lifetime. This paper aims at developing a vibration-based identification procedure of the axial forces, bending stiffness, and, secondarily, the crossing point position of cable networks. A model constituted by two crossing stays having small bending stiffness and negligible sag effects is considered. The in-plane direct dynamic problem is solved both numerically and through a perturbation approach. The obtained results are compared to the outcomes of a finite element model for verification purposes. The theoretical studies are also supported by experimental tests performed on a real cable-stayed bridge (Haccourt bridge), which provide insights into the dynamics of the system showing that models of cables with small bending stiffness are more appropriate than taut string models. The inverse analysis based on non-linear Bayesian regression is developed and the closed-form asymptotic formulations are used to prove that the bending stiffness, the cable forces, and the crossing point position can be separately identified from a set of observed frequencies. The implemented procedure is then applied to the tested bridge as a proof of concept, showing that the proposed in-plane identification strategy provides satisfactory results.
Multi-agent reinforcement learning satellite guidance for triangulation of a moving object in a relative orbit frame
Authors: Yielding Nicholas , Curro Joseph , Cain Stephen C
Published: October 2023

Multi-agent systems are of ever-increasing importance in a contested space environment—use of multiple, cooperative satellites potentially increases positive mission outcomes on orbit, while autonomy becomes an ever-increasing requirement to increase reaction time to dynamic situations and lower the burden on space operators. This research explores multi-agent satellite swarm Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) using deep reinforcement learning (DRL). DRL policies are trained to provide guidance inputs to agents in multi-agent swarm environments for completing complex, teamwork-focused objectives in geosynchronous orbit. An example scenario is explored for a group of satellite agents maneuvering to triangulate an object that is non-stationary in the relative orbit frame. Reward shaping is used to encourage learning guidance that positions swarm members to maximize triangulation accuracy, using angles-only observations for navigation relative to the target. Results show the policies successfully learn guidance through reward shaping to improve triangulation accuracy by a significant factor.
Use of angled-tip aspiration catheters is associated with a lower cost of thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to large and medium vessel occlusions
Authors: Ezzeldin Mohamad , Ota Riichi , Riha Eric , Delora Adam , Alenzi Bader , Gordon Victoria , Gupta Himanshu , Ezzeldin Rime , Bushnaq Saif
Published: October 2023

Background

Recently, the angled-tip Zoom™ aspiration catheters were introduced. The tip is designed to improve suction force for clot retrieval. We evaluated the possibility of reducing procedure costs when using angled-tip catheters and compared the safety and angiographic effectiveness of angled-tip versus straight-tip catheters.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective single-center cohort study involving patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large and medium vessel occlusions. The patients were divided into two groups: the post-Zoom group, in which angled-tip aspiration catheters were used and the pre-Zoom group, in which traditional straight-tip catheters were employed.

Results

A total of 163 patients were included; 95 (58.3%) in the pre-Zoom group and 68 (41.7%) in the post-Zoom group. The groups were well-matched at entry. The post-Zoom group demonstrated a significant decrease in mean procedure cost ($9728 vs. $12,127; p = 0.002), shorter time to achieve modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction ≥2b reperfusion (38.30 min vs. 53.26 min; p = 0.018), and shorter puncture to procedure completion time (46.42 min vs. 62.38 min; p = 0.022). Additionally, the mean procedural cost when using the ADAPT technique supported by the Zoom catheters was significantly lower than the Solumbra technique ($5754 ± $2806 vs. $13,498 ± $3244, p < 0.001). There were no differences in the rate of hemorrhage between the pre-Zoom group (17.9%) and the post-Zoom group (20.6%), p = 0.690.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated significant benefits, including cost reduction and shorter time to achieve reperfusion in patients treated with Zoom aspiration catheters. These findings support the use of angled-tip catheters in acute ischemic stroke management.
Connectivity: Person-Centred Research Principles to Inform Constructivist Grounded Theory
Authors: Pratt Helen , Middleton Rebekkah , Molloy Luke , Moroney Tracey
Published: October 2023

Person-centred approaches to practice recognise the global call to humanise healthcare, where people are valued and their preferences and needs are respected (WHO, 2015). Researchers must also embrace person-centred approaches to further inform person-centredness as the foundation of healthcare policy and practice. Healthcare researchers, policymakers, leaders, educators, and multi-disciplinary practitioners are invited to consider how person-centred methodologies enhance the value and authenticity of research. Person-centred research principles to guide researchers are available (Dewing et al., 2021; McCormack et al., 2017), and one approach proposes an overarching research principle of connectivity; the being, doing, and knowing of the researcher throughout the development, implementation, and dissemination of the research study (Jacobs et al., 2017). An exploration of the principles of attentiveness and dialogue, empowerment and participation, critical reflexivity, and loving kindness that inform connectivity (Jacobs et al., 2017; van Leishout & Peelo-Kilroe, 2021) is presented here. No single methodology is associated with person-centred research, and researchers are encouraged to consider how to incorporate person-centred principles in many different contexts. This paper explores the innovative use of person-centred principles to underpin a constructivist grounded theory (CGT) study illuminating the person-centred nursing process of engaging authentically (McCormack & McCance, 2021). Synergies and connections between the person-centred research principles and Charmaz’s CGT approaches are explored, and further considerations are highlighted. We contend that person-centred research principles support CGT research, explicitly building on Charmaz’s relational approaches and enabling a rigorous foundation for engaging in research, where valuing and respect are central.
Information Avoidance: Past Perspectives and Future Directions
Authors: Foust Jeremy L. , Taber Jennifer M.
Published: October 2023

In the present age of unprecedented access to information, it is important to understand how and why people avoid information. Multiple definitions of “information avoidance” exist, and key aspects of these definitions deserve attention, such as distinguishing information avoidance from (lack of) information seeking, considering the intentionality and temporal nature of information avoidance, and considering the personal relevance of the information. In this review, we provide a cross-disciplinary historical account of theories and empirical research on information avoidance and seeking, drawing from research in multiple fields. We provide a framework of antecedents of information avoidance, categorized into beliefs about the information (e.g., risk perceptions), beliefs about oneself (e.g., coping resources), and social and situational factors (e.g., social norms), noting that constructs across categories overlap and are intertwined. We suggest that research is needed on both positive and negative consequences of information avoidance and on interventions to reduce information avoidance (when appropriate). Research is also needed to better understand temporal dynamics of information avoidance and how it manifests in everyday life. Finally, comprehensive theoretical models are needed that differentiate avoidance from seeking. Research on information avoidance is quickly expanding, and the topic will only grow in importance.
Solidarity with Ukrainian war refugees in Polanders’ epistolary narratives (based on the study of southern and eastern regions of Poland)
Authors: Fabiś Artur , Gierszewski Dorota , Morska Liliya
Published: October 2023

Bordering Ukraine, Poland has become the main escape channel for refugees fleeing from the disastrous war since its inception on 24 February 2022. The results of the study prove that the future of societies can be determined by the importance currently assigned to solidarity. The scale of support and assistance provided spontaneously by individuals and social movements in Poland over the last year has exceeded expectations and confirmed the feasibility of a tremendous potential of solidarity being dormant in Polish society as well as a readiness for selfless and effective actions. This research objective is to gain an insight into Poles’ understanding of the hardships of the war, as well as the motives and emotional involvement driving their support for Ukrainian citizens. In parallel to that, the article examines the issue of bottom-up initiatives of solidarity from the perspective of the refugee influx. This research, which is qualitative in nature, is grounded on the technique of an epistolary narrative analysis of 43 letters written by Poles to unknown Ukrainians. Such qualitative methodology is characterized by typical limitations of this type of research (for example, little generalization is possible due to the size of the sample). However, the findings show that, through spontaneous solidarity and support, disapproval of the aggressor, admiration and gratitude to Ukrainian soldiers, the potential of the messages has boosted the rapprochement of the bonds between the two nations and alleviated the historical conflicts. The solidarity identified stands out and should be distinguished from any other crisis related to refugee phenomena as well as deserving further research from various perspectives.
When is a disparity not a disparity? Toward an old theory of three-dimensional vision
Authors: Rogers Brian
Published: October 2023

The aims of this paper are twofold: first, to discuss and analyze the concept of binocular disparity and second, to contrast the traditional “air theory” of three-dimensional vision with the much older “ground theory,” first suggested by Ibn al-Haytham more than a thousand years ago. The origins of an “air theory” of perception can be traced back to Descartes and subsequently to the philosopher George Berkeley, who claimed that distance “could not be seen” because points lying along the same line of sight (in an empty space) would all project to the same location on the retina. However, Descartes was also aware that the angle of convergence of the two eyes could solve the problem of the “missing” information for the monocular observer and, since then, most visual scientists have assumed that eye vergence plays an important role both in judging absolute distance and for scaling retinal size and binocular disparities. In contrast, al-Haytham's and Gibson’s “ground theories,” which are based on the geometry of the textured ground plane surface that has surrounded us throughout evolution and during our lifetimes, are not just more ecologically based but they also obviate the need for disparity scaling.
Evaluation of functional, perioperative outcomes and common complications of robot-assisted vs open construction of orthotopic neobladder following a radical cystectomy in patients with bladder cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Bhiryani Mansha , El-Taji Omar , Hanchanale Vishwanath
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Orthotopic neobladder (ONB) reconstruction following radical cystectomy for bladder cancer is a viable alternative to the formation of an ileal conduit. Although robotic surgery is gaining popularity, neobladder reconstruction is still most commonly done extra-corporeally (eONB) with a lower midline-laparotomy rather than intra-corporeal ONB (iONB) reconstruction. The novelty of a robotic approach has made several centres apprehensive to adopt this. This systematic review aims to compare functional outcomes as well as perioperative outcomes and common complications of robotic-assisted radical cystectomy with iONB versus eONB reconstruction.

Materials and methods:

A search of the literature from 2011 to 2021 was performed through PubMed, EMBASE, Medline and Scopus to identify articles comparing eONB formation with iONB formation. Urodynamic (UDS) outcomes (bladder volume, flow rate, post-voiding residual volume, continence rates and rate of clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) use) and perioperative outcomes (estimated blood loss, length of stay and operative time) were extracted as endpoints of interest. This review was registered with PROSPERO on 19 October 2022 (CRD42022366667).

Results:

Our searches identified 84 abstracts, of which 4 articles with 410 patients were eligible. Our results showed patients undergoing iONB had a higher bladder capacity and continence rate and achieved full continence much sooner than eONBs. iONBs, however, seemed to be left with higher residual volumes and a higher percentage of patients who needed CIC to void.

Conclusion:

Both perioperative outcomes and complications favoured the iONB technique; however, eONB seemed to give better functional outcomes.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
The shift in ideal family size: Examining the impact of marriage and parenthood
Authors: He Yuchen , Xie Yu
Published: October 2023

Motivated by role theory and the concept of the “self-fulfilling prophecy”, this study examines how entries into marriage and parenthood affect the fertility ideals of men and women in China. To address this question, we apply propensity score matching estimators to data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) within a counterfactual framework. We find that marriage and parenthood have a positive effect on fertility ideals, and this result remains robust when we apply difference-in-differences matching estimates. In terms of gender asymmetry in marriage, men and women respond differently to marriage and parenthood. Entry into marriage has a positive effect on men's fertility ideals, while parenthood influences women's ideals. Beyond the average treatment effect, we further examine heterogeneous treatment effects as a function of estimated propensity scores. The study reveals that the life transition treatment effect is the highest among those with a moderate propensity for entering into marriage and parenthood.
Assessing the Prevalence, Predictors, and Consequences of Secondary Traumatic Stress Among Emergency Nurses in Palestine During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Salameh Basma , Daibes Abdalla Ghassen , Qaddumi Jamal
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Emergency nurses who are working in direct contact with COVID-19 patients are at an increased risk of developing secondary traumatic stress disorder. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, predictors, and consequences of secondary traumatic stress among emergency nurses in Palestine during the COVID-19 pandemic

Methods

The study utilized a cross-sectional design and recruited a total of 189 emergency nurses from multiple healthcare centers in Palestine. Data collected from January 21, 2021, to March 31, 2021.

Results

The study revealed that emergency nurses had a high degree of secondary traumatic stress with the prevalence of high to severe symptoms of secondary traumatic stress being 61% of the total participants. In terms of predictors, the results showed that years of experience, level of education, burnout, and organizational support were significantly correlated with secondary traumatic stress and thus that years of experience and burnout are predictors of secondary traumatic stress.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, nurses in emergency departments in Palestine have a high degree of secondary traumatic stress disorder which impacts their lives on a personal and professional level.
Moving In-Class Debates Online: Deliberating Contentious Issues in an Asynchronous Classroom
Authors: Fiset John
Published: October 2023

Ensuring that students in asynchronous classrooms are afforded similar opportunities to develop business-relevant skills and knowledge has become an increasingly important area as many universities have expanded their online course offerings. In this article, I document a format translation of an in-class debate into a highly flexible and generalizable exercise for an asynchronous classroom. Drawing on previous work on in-class debates and rhetorical strategies, I adapt the in-class group debate format, to an asynchronous undergraduate Human Resource Management course, to foster active learning among students while tackling contentious subjects within the field. Moreover, this versatile exercise can be applied effectively in a wide variety of management courses. I begin by outlining the benefits of debates in a business education context, describe the learning objectives of the exercise, offer numerous sample debate questions, and conclude by providing all relevant teaching notes and instructions.
Prehospital administration of antibiotics in addition to usual care versus usual care alone for patients with suspected sepsis – a systematic review
Authors: Poynter Maddison Jayne , Farrugia Ashley , Kelly Elisabeth , Simpson Paul M
Published: October 2023

Sepsis is an increasingly common presentation to which ambulance resources are dispatched. Whilst early administration of antibiotics (AB) has been associated with improved outcomes, the impact of prehospital administration in an ambulance service context appears uncertain. This systematic review aimed to compare the effect of prehospital administration of antibiotics together with usual care (oxygen and intravenous fluids), to usual care alone, on mortality for patients with sepsis. A systematic review was conducted adherent to JBI methodology. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were published after 2000; conducted in the prehospital setting; compared AB plus usual care to usual care alone in the prehospital phase; and reported an outcome of mortality at any time point. Systematic searches of Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE and Google Scholar were conducted, with included articles subjected to quality assessment using JBI appraisal tools. Each stage was completed by two authors, with a third engaged to resolve conflicts. A narrative synthesis was conducted and reported, and certainty of evidence was assessed. Of 587 studies identified from the searches, five satisfied the inclusion criteria and were included in the data synthesis. Two were randomized controlled trials, and three used observational comparative designs assessed as being at low-to-moderate risk of bias. Regarding the primary outcome of mortality, there was no evidence from high-quality studies with a low risk of bias that prehospital administration of ABs decreased mortality when measured at 28, 30 or 90 days. Regarding secondary outcomes, there was no evidence from high-quality studies with a low risk of bias that prehospital ABs reduce the length of stay in the hospital generally or the intensive care unit. The certainty of findings was low for mortality at 90 days, and very low for measurement at 28 and 30 days. There was insufficient evidence from high-quality studies with a low risk of bias indicating prehospital administration of ABs in addition to usual care, compared to usual care alone, reduces mortality at 28, 30 or 90 days, or length of stay in hospital or ICU, for adult patients with sepsis. There is insufficient evidence to enable the recommendation of routine administration of antibiotics to patients with sepsis presenting to ambulance service clinicians in the prehospital setting. Investigation of administration to more severe sepsis presentations in settings where prolonged prehospital intervals are inherent is warranted.
Tissue-specific transcriptome and metabolome analyses reveal candidate genes for lignan biosynthesis in the medicinal plant Schisandra sphenanthera
Authors: Sun Boshi , Wang Peng , Guan Meng , Jia Entong , Li Qian , Li Jun , Zhou Ziyun , Ma Pengda
Published: October 2023

Schisandra sphenanthera is an extremely important medicinal plant, and its main medicinal component is bioactive lignans. The S. sphenanthera fruit is preferred by the majority of consumers, and the root, stem, and leaf are not fully used. To better understand the lignan metabolic pathway, transcriptome and metabolome analyses were performed on the four major tissues of S. sphenanthera. A total of 167,972,229 transcripts and 91,215,760 unigenes with an average length of 752 bp were identified. Tissue-specific gene analysis revealed that the root had the highest abundance of unique unigenes (9703), and the leaves had the lowest (189). Transcription factor analysis showed that MYB-, bHLH- and ERF-transcription factors, which played important roles in the regulation of secondary metabolism, showed rich expression patterns and may be involved in the regulation of processes involved in lignan metabolism. In different tissues, lignans were preferentially enriched in fruit and roots by gene expression profiles related to lignan metabolism and relative lignan compound content. Furthermore, schisandrin B is an important compound in S. sphenanthera. According to weighted gene co-expression network analysis, PAL1, C4H-2, CAD1, CYB8, OMT27, OMT57, MYB18, bHLH3, and bHLH5 can be related to the accumulation of lignans in S. sphenanthera fruit, CCR5, SDH4, CYP8, CYP20, and ERF7 can be related to the accumulation of lignans in S. sphenanthera roots. In this study, transcriptome sequencing and targeted metabolic analysis of lignans will lay a foundation for the further study of their biosynthetic genes.
A new Plasmodium vivax reference genome for South American isolates
Authors: De Meulenaere Katlijn , Cuypers Bart , Gamboa Dionicia , Laukens Kris , Rosanas-Urgell Anna
Published: October 2023

Background

Plasmodium vivaxis the second most important cause of human malaria worldwide, and accounts for the majority of malaria cases in South America. A high-quality reference genome exists for Papua Indonesia (PvP01) and Thailand (PvW1), but is lacking for South America. A reference genome specifically for South America would be beneficial though, asP. vivaxis a genetically diverse parasite with geographical clustering.

Results

This study presents a new high-quality assembly of a South AmericanP. vivaxisolate, referred to as PvPAM (P. vivaxPeruvian AMazon). The genome was obtained from a low input patient sample from the Peruvian Amazon and sequenced using PacBio technology, resulting in a highly complete assembly with 6497 functional genes. Telomeric ends were present in 17 out of 28 chromosomal ends, and additional (sub)telomeric regions are present in 12 unassigned contigs. A comparison of multigene families between PvPAM and the PvP01 genome revealed remarkable variation invirgenes, and the presence of merozoite surface proteins (MSP) 3.6 and 3.7. Threedhfranddhpsdrug resistance associated mutations are present in PvPAM, similar to those found in other Peruvian isolates. Mapping of publicly available South American whole genome sequencing (WGS) data to PvPAM resulted in significantly fewer variants and truncated reads compared to the use of PvP01 or PvW1 as reference genomes. To minimize the number of core genome variants in non-South American samples, PvW1 is most suited for Southeast Asian isolates, both PvPAM and PvW1 are suited for South Asian isolates, and PvPAM is recommended for African isolates. Interestingly, non-South American samples still contained the least subtelomeric variants when mapped to PvPAM, indicating high quality of the PvPAM subtelomeric regions.

Conclusions

Our findings show that the PvPAM reference genome more accurately represents South AmericanP. vivaxisolates in comparison to PvP01 and PvW1. In addition, PvPAM has a high level of completeness, and contains a similar number of annotated genes as PvP01 or PvW1. The PvPAM genome therefore will be a valuable resource to improve future genomic analyses onP. vivaxisolates from the South American continent.
Stigmas of holoparasitic Phelipanche arenaria (Orobanchaceae) – a suitable ephemeric flower habitat for development unique microbiome
Authors: Ruraż Karolina , Przemieniecki Sebastian Wojciech , Błaszak Magdalena , Czarnomska Sylwia Dagmara , Ochmian Ireneusz , Piwowarczyk Renata
Published: October 2023

Background

Microbial communities have occasionally been observed in part of the ephemeric reproductive structure of floral stigmas, but their prevalence, phylogenetic diversity and ecological roles are understudied. This report describes the first study of bacterial and fungal communities in immature and mature stigma tissue of the endangered holoparasitic plant Phelipanche arenaria. Culture-dependent methods coupled with next-generation sequencing indicated that a small surface of the flower stigma was an unexpectedly rich and diverse microhabitat for colonization of microbial. We also compared the enzymatic activity of the bacterial communities between immature and mature stigmas samples.

Results

Using high-throughput sequencing methods, we identified and classified 39 to over 51 OTUs per sample for bacterial OTUs represented by Pantoea agglomerans and P. ananatis, comprising 50.6%, followed by Pseudomonas, Luteibacter spp., Sphingomonas spp. with 17% of total frequency. The bacterial profile of immature stigmas of P. arenaria contained unique microorganisms (21 of the most numerous OTUs) that were not confirmed in mature stigmas. However, the enzymatic activity of bacteria in mature stigmas of P. arenaria showed more activity than observed in immature stigmas. In the fungal profile, we recorded even 80 OTUs in mature stigmas, consisting of Capnodiales 45.03% of the total abundance with 28.27% of frequency was created by Alternaria eichhorniae (10.55%), Mycosphaerella tassiana (9.69%), and Aureobasidium pullulans (8.03%). Additionally, numerous putative plant growth-promoting bacteria, fungal pathogens and pathogen-antagonistic yeasts were also detected.

Conclusions

Our study uncovered that P. arenaria stigmas host diverse bacterial and fungal communities. These microorganisms are well known and have been described as beneficial for biotechnological and environmental applications (e.g., production of different enzymes and antimicrobial compounds). This research provided valuable insight into the parasitic plant–microbe interactions.
Assembly and comparative analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Viburnum chinshanense
Authors: Zhu Haoxiang , Shan Yuanyu , Li Jingling , Zhang Xue , Yu Jie , Wang Haiyang
Published: October 2023

Background

Viburnum chinshanense is an endemic species found exclusively in the North-Central and South-Central regions of China. This species is a lush garden ornamental tree and is extensively utilized for vegetation restoration in rocky desertification areas.

Results

In this study, we obtained 13.96 Gb of Oxford Nanopore data for the whole genome, and subsequently, by combining Illumina short-reads, we successfully assembled the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of the V. chinshanense using a hybrid assembly strategy. The assembled genome can be described as a circular genome. The total length of the V. chinshanense mitogenome measures 643,971 bp, with a GC content of 46.18%. Our annotation efforts have revealed a total of 39 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 28 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes within the V. chinshanense mitogenome. The analysis of repeated elements has identified 212 SSRs, 19 long tandem repeat elements, and 325 pairs of dispersed repeats in the V. chinshanense mitogenome. Additionally, we have investigated mitochondrial plastid DNAs (MTPTs) and identified 21 MTPTs within the mitogenome and plastidial genome. These MTPTs collectively span a length of 9,902 bp, accounting for 1.54% of the mitogenome. Moreover, employing Deepred-mt, we have confidently predicted 623 C to U RNA editing sites across the 39 protein-coding genes. Furthermore, extensive genomic rearrangements have been observed between V. chinshanense and the mitogenomes of related species. Interestingly, we have also identified a bacterial-derived tRNA gene (trnC-GCA) in the V. chinshanense mitogenome. Lastly, we have inferred the phylogenetic relationships of V. chinshanense with other angiosperms based on mitochondrial PCGs.

Conclusions

This study marks the first report of a mitogenome from the Viburnum genus, offering a valuable genomic resource for exploring the evolution of mitogenomes within the Dipsacales order.
Exploring the perspectives of selectors and collecters of trial outcome data: an international qualitative study
Authors: Green Heidi R. , Dawson Annabel , Elfeky Adel , Pickles David , Treweek Shaun , Gillies Katie
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Selecting and collecting data to support appropriate primary and secondary outcomes is a critical step in designing trials that can change clinical practice. In this study, we aimed to investigate who contributes to the process of selecting and collecting trial outcomes, and how these people are involved. This work serves two main purposes: (1) it provides the trials community with evidence to demonstrate how outcomes are currently selected and collected, and (2) it allows people involved in trial design and conduct to pick apart these processes to consider how efficiencies and improvements can be made.

Methods

One-with-one semi-structured interviews, supported by a topic guide to ensure coverage of key content. The Framework approach was used for thematic analysis of data, and themes were linked through constant comparison of data both within and across participant groups. Interviews took place between July 2020 and January 2021. Participants were twenty-nine international trialists from various contributor groups, working primarily on designing and/or delivering phase III pragmatic effectiveness trials. Their experience spanned various funders, trial settings, clinical specialties, intervention types, and participant populations.

Results

We identified three descriptive themes encompassing the process of primary and secondary outcome selection, collection, and the publication of outcome data. Within these themes, participants raised issues around the following: 1) Outcome selection: clarity of the research question; confidence in selecting trial outcomes and how confidence decreases with increased experience; interplay between different interested parties; how patients and the public are involved in outcome selection; perceived impact of poor outcome selection including poor recruitment and/or retention; and use of core outcome sets. 2) Outcome collection: disconnect between decisions made by outcome selectors and the practical work done by outcome collectors; potential impact of outcome measures on trial participants; potential impact on trial staff workload; and use of routinely collected data. 3) Publication of outcome data: difficulties in finding time to write and revise manuscripts for publication due to time and funding constraints. Participants overwhelmingly focused on the process of outcome selection, a topic they talked about unprompted. When prompted, participants do discuss outcome collection, but poor communication between selectors and collectors at the trial design stage means that outcome selection is rarely linked with the data collection workload it generates.

Discussion

People involved in the design and conduct of trials fail to connect decisions around outcome selection with data collection workload. Publication of outcome data and effective dissemination of trial results are hindered due to the project-based culture of some academic clinical trial research.
An improved multiply robust estimator for the average treatment effect
Authors: Wang Ce , Wei Kecheng , Huang Chen , Yu Yongfu , Qin Guoyou
Published: October 2023

Background

In observational studies, double robust or multiply robust (MR) approaches provide more protection from model misspecification than the inverse probability weighting and g-computation for estimating the average treatment effect (ATE). However, the approaches are based on parametric models, leading to biased estimates when all models are incorrectly specified. Nonparametric methods, such as machine learning or nonparametric double robust approaches, are robust to model misspecification, but the efficiency of nonparametric methods is low.

Method

In the study, we proposed an improved MR method combining parametric and nonparametric models based on the previous MR method (Han, JASA 109(507):1159-73, 2014) to improve the robustness to model misspecification and the efficiency. We performed comprehensive simulations to evaluate the performance of the proposed method.

Results

Our simulation study showed that the MR estimators with only outcome regression (OR) models, where one of the models was a nonparametric model, were the most recommended because of the robustness to model misspecification and the lowest root mean square error (RMSE) when including a correct parametric OR model. And the performance of the recommended estimators was comparative, even if all parametric models were misspecified. As an application, the proposed method was used to estimate the effect of social activity on depression levels in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study dataset.

Conclusions

The proposed estimator with nonparametric and parametric models is more robust to model misspecification.
Causal inference and observational data
Authors: Olier Ivan , Zhan Yiqiang , Liang Xiaoyu , Volovici Victor
Published: October 2023

Observational studies using causal inference frameworks can provide a feasible alternative to randomized controlled trials. Advances in statistics, machine learning, and access to big data facilitate unraveling complex causal relationships from observational data across healthcare, social sciences, and other fields. However, challenges like evaluating models and bias amplification remain.
“The measures taken by the government overburdened the daily practice” – insights of the PRICOV-19 study on German general practitioners in times of COVID-19
Authors: Stark Stefanie , Schaubroeck Emmily , Kluge Marie , Burggraf Larissa , Roos Marco , Borowski Eve , Van Poel Esther , Willems Sara , Kühlein Thomas , Hueber Susann , Werner Felix
Published: October 2023

Background

The international study PRICOV-19 aims to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the organisation of primary health care. The German part focuses on German general practitioners during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper addresses the following research questions: (1) How were changes in tasks on primary care and patient treatment perceived by GPs?, (2) What was the role of GPs during the pandemic, and how was their wellbeing?, (3) How did GPs perceive health policy measures?, and, (4) What influenced the attitudes of GPs on health policy measures?

Methods

This study pursues a multi-country cross-sectional design. Data collection took place throughout Germany from 01.02. to 28.02.2021 with a quantitative online questionnaire consisting of 53 items. The questionnaire was analysed through descriptive and inferential analyses using correlation and multiple regression models.

Results

The response rate was 20.4% (n = 349). The respondents were mainly GPs (59.6%) in single practices (62.5%) with a mean work experience of 15 to 20 years. GPs experienced a change in their work and practice organisation (80.3%). They felt a high responsibility (70.6%) and found their work has become more meaningful to them (76%). They also saw a lack of political support (75.2%) and that the measures taken by the government overburdened the daily practice (66.4%). Not many GPs were at risk of being distressed (53.4%) but rated the health policies rather negatively (60%). The multiple regression showed, the more GPs were exposed to risk of distress, the worse they assessed the government's measures.

Conclusion

GPs perceived their work as relevant and felt confident they could fulfil their tasks, but noticed that health policy initially hardly supported the outpatient sector. Health policies should increase their competence in relation to primary care, ensure its needs and consider an active inclusion of GPs in preparedness plans.
Lower serum Klotho level and higher systemic immune-inflammation index: an inverse correlation
Authors: Chen Ping , Tang Yafen , Luo Liang , Chen Haotian , He Xingkang
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Klotho, an anti-aging protein, has been identified to control tissue inflammatory responses. The objective of this research is to determine the linkage between soluble Klotho (S-Klotho) level and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII).

Methods

Eligible participants with complete information of S-Klotho level and SII were selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). Subsequently, weighted multivariate linear regression and subgroup analysis were carried out to evaluate the association.

Results

Totally, 11,108 adults with complete data on S-Klotho level, SII and other important covariates were included in final analysis. Multivariate liner regression revealed that high level of S-Klotho was associated with low level of SII after multivariate adjustments (β=-0.08, 95%CI:-0.10- -0.05, P < 0.01). When classifying S-Klotho into tertiles, participants in S-Klotho tertile 3 (Q3) showed a decrease in SII level compared with those in the lowest tertile (Q1) (β=-45.44, 95%CI:-64.41- -26.47, P < 0.01 ). The negative associations remained significant regardless of age and gender, and varied depending on smoking status and BMI subgroups.

Conclusion

S-Klotho level was negatively related to SII after controlling for covariates. Further studies need to validate current findings and explore the fundamental mechanisms.