bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurometabolite alterations in traumatic brain injury and associations with chronic pain
Authors: Robayo Linda E. , Govind Varan , Salan Teddy , Cherup Nicholas P. , Sheriff Sulaiman , Maudsley Andrew A. , Widerström-Noga Eva
Published: February 2023

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to a variety of comorbidities, including chronic pain. Although brain tissue metabolite alterations have been extensively examined in several chronic pain populations, it has received less attention in people with TBI. Thus, the primary aim of this study was to compare brain tissue metabolite levels in people with TBI and chronic pain (n = 16), TBI without chronic pain (n = 17), and pain-free healthy controls (n = 31). The metabolite data were obtained from participants using whole-brain proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (1H-MRSI) at 3 Tesla. The metabolite data included N-acetylaspartate, myo-inositol, total choline, glutamate plus glutamine, and total creatine. Associations between N-acetylaspartate levels and pain severity, neuropathic pain symptom severity, and psychological variables, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and post-concussive symptoms, were also explored. Our results demonstrate N-acetylaspartate, myo-inositol, total choline, and total creatine alterations in pain-related brain regions such as the frontal region, cingulum, postcentral gyrus, and thalamus in individuals with TBI with and without chronic pain. Additionally, NAA levels in the left and right frontal lobe regions were positively correlated with post-concussive symptoms; and NAA levels within the left frontal region were also positively correlated with neuropathic pain symptom severity, depression, and PTSD symptoms in the TBI with chronic pain group. These results suggest that neuronal integrity or density in the prefrontal cortex, a critical region for nociception and pain modulation, is associated with the severity of neuropathic pain symptoms and psychological comorbidities following TBI. Our data suggest that a combination of neuronal loss or dysfunction and maladaptive neuroplasticity may contribute to the development of persistent pain following TBI, although no causal relationship can be determined based on these data.
Adult neurogenesis in the telencephalon of the lizard Podarcis liolepis
Authors: González-Granero Susana , Font Enrique , Desfilis Ester , Herranz-Pérez Vicente , García-Verdugo José Manuel
Published: February 2023

In adult lizards, new neurons are generated from neural stem cells in the ventricular zone of the lateral ventricles. These new neurons migrate and integrate into the main telencephalic subdivisions. In this work we have studied adult neurogenesis in the lizard Podarcis liolepis (formerly Podarcis hispanica) by administering [3H]-thymidine and bromodeoxyuridine as proliferation markers and euthanizing the animals at different survival times to determine the identity of progenitor cells and to study their lineage derivatives. After short survival times, only type B cells are labeled, suggesting that they are neural stem cells. Three days after administration, some type A cells are labeled, corresponding to recently formed neuroblasts. Type A cells migrate to their final destinations, where they differentiate into mature neurons and integrate into functional circuits. Our results after long survival periods suggest that, in addition to actively dividing type B cells, there is also a type B subpopulation with low proliferative activity. We also found that new neurons incorporated into the olfactory bulb are generated both in situ, in the walls of the anterior extension of the lateral ventricle of the olfactory bulbs, but also at more caudal levels, most likely in anterior levels of the sulcus ventralis/terminalis. These cells follow a tangential migration toward the olfactory bulbs where they integrate. We hypothesized that at least part of the newly generated neurons would undergo a specialization process over time. In support of this prediction, we found two neuronal populations in the cellular layer of the medial cortex, which we named type I and II neurons. At intermediate survival times (1 month) only type II neurons were labeled with [3H]-thymidine, while at longer survival times (3, 6, or 12 months) both type I and type II neurons were labeled. This study sheds light on the ultrastructural characteristics of the ventricular zone of P. liolepis as a neurogenic niche, and adds to our knowledge of the processes whereby newly generated neurons in the adult brain migrate and integrate into their final destinations.
Effect of fermentation on structural properties and antioxidant activity of wheat gluten by Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Zhao Peng-hui , Hou Yin-Chen , Wang Zhen , Liao Ai-Mei , Pan Long , Zhang Jie , Dong Yu-Qi , Hu Zhe-Yuan , Huang Ji-Hong , Ou Xing-Qi
Published: February 2023

Bacillus subtilis has been extensively studied for its ability to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms and its high protease activity. In this study, Bacillus subtilis was used to ferment gluten and assess the effects of the fermentation process on the physicochemical, microstructure and antioxidant properties of gluten. The results of Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and circular chromatography (CD) showed a significant decrease in the content of α-helix structures and a significant increase in the content of β-sheet structures in gluten after fermentation (p < 0.05). Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) showed that glutenin was degraded into small molecular peptides with a molecular weight of less than 26 kDa after 24 h of fermentation; meanwhile, the fermentation process significantly increased the free amino acid content of the samples (p < 0.05), reaching 1923.38 μg/mL at 120 h of fermentation, which was 39.46 times higher than that at 24 h of fermentation (p < 0.05). In addition, the fermented back gluten has higher free radical scavenging activity and iron reduction capacity. Therefore, fermented gluten may be used as a functional food to alleviate oxidative stress. This study provides a reference for the high-value application of gluten.
Effect of compound dietary fiber of soybean hulls on the gel properties of myofibrillar protein and its mechanism in recombinant meat products
Authors: Zhang Song-Shan , Duan Jun-Ya , Zhang Teng-Teng , Lv Meng , Gao Xiao-Guang
Published: February 2023

Response surface methodology was used to determine the optimum ratio of rice husk dietary fiber, soybean hull dietary fiber, and inulin as 1.40, 1.42, and 3.24%. The effects of compound and single dietary fiber on water holding capacity, gel strength, secondary structure, rheological properties, chemical action force, and microstructure of myofibrillar proteins (MP) gel were investigated. The application of composite dietary fiber significantly (P < 0.05) improved the gel strength, water holding capacity and storage modulus (G′) of MP gel. Fourier transform infrared spectrum analysis shows that the addition of compound dietary fiber can make the gel structure more stable. The effect of dietary fiber complex on the chemical action of MP gel was further studied, and it was found that hydrophobic interaction and disulfide bond could promote the formation of compound gel. By comparing the microstructure of the MP gel with and without dietary fiber, the results showed that the MP gel with compound dietary fiber had smaller pores and stronger structure. Therefore, the rice hull dietary fiber, the soybean hull dietary fiber and the inulin are compounded and added into the low-fat recombinant meat product in a proper proportion, so that the quality characteristics and the nutritional value of the low-fat recombinant meat product can be effectively improved, the rice hull dietary fiber has the potential of being used as a fat substitute, and a theoretical basis is provided for the development of the functional meat product.
Recurrence after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma: Analysis of the pattern and risk factors
Authors: Chen Rui , Hou Beining , Zhou Yanzhao , Zhang Tuo , Wang Zhengzheng , Chen Xun , Zhang Yingwei , Chen Man
Published: February 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) frequently relapses after minimally invasive treatment. This study aimed to observe the influencing factors of different recurrence patterns after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of recurrence.

Methods

The medical records of HCC patients who underwent RFA between January 2010 and January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. HCC recurrence is classified into three types: local tumour progression (LTP), intrahepatic distant metastasis, and extrahepatic metastasis. Risk factors, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) were assessed for each modality. Among the risk factors are age, gender, liver function tests, blood tests, and tumour size. The OS and DFS curves were measured by the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

406 patients who had undergone RFA were included in the study. The median survival for OS and DFS were 120 and 43.6 months. During follow-up, 39, 312, and 55 patients developed LTP, intrahepatic distant metastasis, and extrahepatic metastatic recurrence, respectively. The independent risk factors for each type were as follows: WBC > 5.55*109/L was an independent risk factor for local recurrence. Multiple tumours, extrahepatic metastases, and AFP > 200 ng/ml were used for intrahepatic metastases. Age (P = 0.030), recurrence pattern (P < 0.001) and Child-Pugh class B (P = 0.015) were independent predictors of OS.

Conclusions

According to our classification, each pattern of recurrence has different risk factors for recurrence, OS, and DFS.
Investigating the impact of COVID-19 on patients with cancer from areas of conflict within the MENA region treated at King Hussein Cancer Center
Authors: Al-Hussaini Maysa , Al-Ani Abdallah , Hammouri Muhammad , Al-Huneidy Leen , Mansour Asem
Published: February 2023

Background

There is a paucity of evidence regarding the impact of COVID-19 on cancer care among refugees or patients from areas of conflict. Cancer care for these populations remains fragmented due to resource scarcity and limited infrastructure.

Aims

To explore the effect of COVID-19 on cancer care among patients from areas of conflict treated at King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC).

Methodology

We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients from areas of conflict, treated at KHCC from 2018 to 2021. Patients’ demographics and clinical characteristics are presented in the form of descriptive statistics. Interrupted Time Series (ITS) analysis was utilized to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the number of admissions throughout the study’s period.

Results

A total of 3317 patients from areas of conflict were included in the study. Among these, 1546 were males (46.6%) while 1771 (53.4%) were female. Libyans (34.6%), Palestinians (24.8%), Iraqis (24.5%), Syrians (15.3%), and Sudanese patients (0.9%) constituted our study sample. ITS analysis demonstrated that the start of the COVID-19 lockdown significantly decreased admissions by 44.0% (p = 0.020), while the end of the COVID-19 restriction significantly improved admissions by 43.0% (p = 0.023). Among those with available SEER stages, more than a quarter of patients had distant metastasis (n = 935, 28.2%) irrespective of age and biological sex. Advanced presentations during 2020 had approximately a 16% and 6% increase compared to 2018 and 2019, respectively. Breast cancer (21.4%), hematolymphoid cancers (18.1%), and cancers of the digestive system (16.5%) were the most common cancers among our cohort.

Conclusion

Restrictions associated with COVID-19 had a significant effect on the number of admissions of patients from areas of conflict. In the long term, this effect may impact the survival outcomes of affected patients.
Parental smoking and risk of hypospadias: An updated meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Ye Zi-Han , Chen Hong-Song , Zhang Zhi-Cheng , Wang Xiao , Liu Xing , Wei Guang-Hui
Published: February 2023

Background

Inconsistent relationships have been shown between cigarette smoking and hypospadias in offspring. The purpose of this study was to summarize epidemiological evidence to evaluate the relationship between parental smoking and the risk of hypospadias.

Methods

Up until October 2022, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for qualified research. The summary RRs and 95% CIs were calculated using either a fixed-effects or a random-effects model. There were subgroup analyses undertaken to identify potential sources of heterogeneity.

Results

44 studies with 16,637,830 participants were included in our meta-analysis. Overall, maternal active smoking [risk ratio (RR) = 0.94; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90–0.99;P < 0.01] was significantly associated with the risk of hypospadias. And neither paternal smoking (RR = 1.00; 95% CI: 0.86–1.15) nor maternal passive smoking (RR = 0.91; 95% CI: 0.60–1.23) was associated with the risk of hypospadias.

Conclusion

Our study discovered an association between maternal active smoking and a decreased risk of hypospadias, which may be due to the effect of smoking on androgen. However, as numerous studies have proved that cigarette smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of overall birth abnormalities in offspring, quitting cigarettes before pregnancy positively influences the health of offspring and should be advocated worldwide.

Systematic review registration

[www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero], identifier [CRD42022319378].
Impact of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy on neonatal outcomes among infants born at 24+0–31+6 weeks’ gestation in China: A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Ge Jianfang , Gu Xinyue , Jiang Shanyu , Yang Ling , Li Xiaoyan , Jiang Siyuan , Jia Beibei , Chen Caihua , Cao Yun , Lee Shoo , Zhao Xiaopeng , Ji Yong , Zhou Wenhao
Published: February 2023

Objective

To describe the rate of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP) among mothers of very preterm infants (VPIs) admitted to Chinese neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), and to investigate the relationship between HDP and the outcomes of VPIs.

Study design

Cohort study of all VPIs born at a gestational age of 24+0–31+6weeks and admitted to 57 tertiary NICUs of the Chinese Neonatal Network (CHNN) in 2019. Infants with severe congenital anomalies or missing maternal HDP information were excluded. Two multivariate logistic regression models were generated to assess the relationship between HDP and neonatal outcomes.

Results

Among 9,262 infants enrolled, 1,744 (18.8%) infants were born to mothers with HDP, with an increasing incidence with increasing gestational age. VPIs born to mothers with HDP had higher gestational age but lower birth weight and were more likely to be small for gestational age. Mothers with HDP were more likely to receive antenatal steroids, MgSO4and cesarean section. Infants in the HDP group showed higher observed rates of mortality or any morbidity than infants in the non-HDP group (50.2% vs. 47.2%, crude odds ratio (OR) 1.13, 95% CI 1.02–1.26). However, the associations between HDP and adverse outcomes were not significant after adjustment. In the HDP group, mothers of 1,324/1,688 (78.4%) infants were diagnosed with preeclampsia/eclampsia. Infants born to mothers with preeclampsia/eclampsia had significantly lower odds of early death and severe retinopathy of prematurity.

Conclusions

Nearly one-fifth of VPIs were born to mothers with HDP in Chinese NICUs. No significant association was identified between HDP and adverse neonatal short-term outcomes of VPIs, while long-term follow-up of these infants is needed.
Atrial fibrillation in a pediatric patient caused by an unusual malignant etiology: A case report
Authors: Hubrechts Jelena , Vô Christophe , Boulanger Cécile , Carkeek Katherine , Moniotte Stéphane
Published: February 2023

This case report describes a 15-year-old patient with a known congenital malformation syndrome and immune deficiency, presenting with new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) after a recent diagnosis of an intrathoracic mass. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a structurally and functionally normal heart and workup confirmed a primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, with pericardial and left atrial involvement on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Electrical cardioversion was successfully performed to convert the AF and chemotherapy was promptly started. Antiarrhythmic treatment was continued for 6 weeks, without recurrent AF. We discuss the pathogenesis of AF in the setting of malignancies as well as the management strategies of AF, mainly based on adult guidelines.
In utero methadone exposure permanently alters anatomical and functional connectivity: A preclinical evaluation
Authors: Chin Eric M. , Kitase Yuma , Madurai Nethra K. , Robinson Shenandoah , Jantzie Lauren L.
Published: February 2023

The opioid epidemic is an ongoing public health crisis, and children born following prenatal opioid exposure (POE) have increased risk of long-term cognitive and behavioral sequelae. Clinical studies have identified reduced gray matter volume and abnormal white matter microstructure in children with POE but impacts on whole-brain functional brain connectivity (FC) have not been reported. To define effects of POE on whole brain FC and white matter injury in adult animals, we performed quantitative whole-brain structural and functional MRI. We used an established rat model of POE in which we have previously reported impaired executive function in adult rats analogous to persistent neurocognitive symptoms described in humans with POE. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rat dams received continuous methadone (12 mg/kg/day) vs. saline infusion for 28 days via osmotic mini-pumps, exposing rats to pre- and postnatal opioid until weaning. At young adult age (P60), POE and saline exposed offspring underwent in vivo MRI included diffusion tensor imaging and functional MRI (fMRI). Results indicate that fractional anisotropy (FA) was decreased in adult animals with POE [n = 11] compared to animals that received saline [n = 9] in major white matter tracts, including the corpus callosum (p < 0.001) and external capsule (p < 0.01). This change in FA was concomitant with reduced axial diffusivity in the external capsule (p < 0.01) and increased radial diffusivity in the corpus callosum (p < 0.01). fMRI analyses reveal brainwide FC was diffusely lower in POE (p < 10−6; 10% of variance explained by group). Decreased connectivity in cortical-cortical and cortico-basal ganglia circuitry was particularly prominent with large effect sizes (Glass's Δ > 1). Taken together, these data confirm POE reduces brainwide functional connectivity as well as microstructural integrity of major white matter tracts. Altered neural circuitry, dysregulated network refinement, and diffuse network dysfunction have been implicated in executive function deficits that are common in children with POE. FC may serve as a translatable biomarker in children with POE.
Case report: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis induced by nab-paclitaxel: A rare complication
Authors: Shen Jiahui , Wen Zhongyong , Lin Jingxia , Su Huiwen
Published: February 2023

Background: Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest gynecological cancers, with the most advanced disease and poor survival. Although BRCA genes play a key role in maintaining genomic stability and providing the possibility of clinically individualized treatments, with the emergence of new and more appropriate treatment options, new treatment–related adverse events are challenging and difficult for clinicians.

Case presentation: An 80-year-old Chinese woman was diagnosed with stage IIIC ovarian high-grade serous adenocarcinoma (CT3cN1MX) with BRCA2 as the causative gene. She underwent three courses of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with nab-paclitaxel 400 mg and carboplatin 450 mg before surgery. Chest HRCT prior to chemotherapy demonstrated bilateral interstitial pneumonia. During chemotherapy, there were four episodes of dry cough, shortness of breath, dyspnea, and three episodes of bone marrow suppression. The symptoms became intermittent and progressively worse, and after three sessions of empirical cough and phlegm relief, oxygen inhalation, corticosteroids, anti-infectives, and leukopenia therapy, the symptoms became intermittent and progressively worse. The diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis came a week after the third round of chemotherapy. After a strong dose of corticosteroids and nintedanib anti-fibrosis therapy, the pulmonary symptoms abated, and intermediate tumor starvation was performed. The combination therapy was subsequently discontinued, and the patient experienced significant relief from pulmonary symptoms. Treatment response was positive following single-agent nab-paclitaxel 400 mg chemotherapy in combination with nintedanib 150 mg anti-fibrosis therapy.

Conclusion: In this report, we describe a rare case of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis associated with the use of nab-paclitaxel and carboplatin in ovarian cancer. During treatment, it is necessary to maintain a high level of vigilance for patients with interstitial pneumonia and engage the attention of clinicians to improve medication safety. Early diagnosis and anti-fibrosis therapy can reverse lung damage.
4-Methylesculetin ameliorates LPS-induced depression-like behavior through the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome
Authors: Choudhary Khushboo , Prasad Surendra Rajit , Lokhande Kiran Bharat , Murti Krishna , Singh Sanjiv , Ravichandiran Velayutham , Kumar Nitesh
Published: February 2023

The pathophysiology of depression is heavily dependent on inflammation. Evidence suggests that the etiology of depression is linked with NLRP3 inflammasome-induced inflammation. Therefore, blocking the activated NLRP3 inflammasome may be beneficial for treating depression. Due to the limitations of currently available antidepressants, it is necessary to develop novel, safe, and affordable drugs for the treatment of depression. A natural coumarin derivative named 4-methylesculetin (4-MESC) possesses anti-inflammatory properties. However, the role of 4-MESC as an antidepressant has not been elucidated. Therefore, in this study, we explored the antidepressant-like effects of 4-MESC and its underlying molecular mechanism through the modulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. The docking and molecular dynamic simulation studies revealed that 4-MESC has a higher affinity for the NLRP3 PYD. Blood–brain barrier permeability was confirmed using the SwissADME pharmacokinetic tool. High doses (50 mg/kg) of 4-MESC significantly reduced the immobility duration in the tail-suspension test (TST) and forced swim test (FST) without changing the overall locomotor activity in the female Swiss albino mice that were subjected to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α were reduced in serum and brain tissues using 4-MESC. 4-MESC’s neuroprotective effects are mediated by increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and decreased cortisol levels. 4-MESC markedly reduced LPS-induced elevated levels of ROS and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde levels) and enhanced the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione levels, which revealed its anti-oxidant potential against oxidative stress. 4-MESC diminished the expression levels of NF-κBp65, IL-6, NLRP3, caspase-1, gasdermin D, and IL-1β in the hippocampus. These findings demonstrated that 4-MESC exhibited antidepressant-like effects by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome. However, other antidepressant mechanisms might also be involved which require further studies.
Human PARP1 substrates and regulators of its catalytic activity: An updated overview
Authors: Zhu Tao , Zheng Ju-Yan , Huang Ling-Ling , Wang Yan-Hong , Yao Di-Fei , Dai Hai-Bin
Published: February 2023

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) is a key DNA damage sensor that is recruited to damaged sites after DNA strand breaks to initiate DNA repair. This is achieved by catalyzing attachment of ADP-ribose moieties, which are donated from NAD+, on the amino acid residues of itself or other acceptor proteins. PARP inhibitors (PARPi) that inhibit PARP catalytic activity and induce PARP trapping are commonly used for treating BRCA1/2-deficient breast and ovarian cancers through synergistic lethality. Unfortunately, resistance to PARPi frequently occurs. In this review, we present the novel substrates and regulators of the PARP1-catalyzed poly (ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARylatison) that have been identified in the last 3 years. The overall aim is the presentation of protein interactions of potential therapeutic intervention for overcoming the resistance to PARPi.
Barbiturates and pyrazolopyridines for the treatment of postpartum depression—repurposing of two drug classes
Authors: Horwitz Alexander B. , Rubin Robert T.
Published: February 2023

Zulresso (brexanolone) is an aqueous formulation of the neurosteroid, allopregnanolone, and the only FDA-approved medication for the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD). While brexanolone is effective for the treatment of PPD, lengthy infusion time and high cost can be prohibitive. Failure of GABAA receptors to adapt to fluctuating neurosteroid levels is considered to predispose women to mood disorders in the postpartum period. Brexanolone is thought to act via stimulation of δ subunit-containing GABAA receptors, which are extrasynaptic and localized to particular brain regions. Neurosteroid stimulation of δ subunit-containing GABAA receptors leads to sustained inhibition (hyperpolarization) of GABAergic neurons, which makes δ subunit-containing GABAA receptors a potentially important pharmacologic target. Barbiturates and pyrazolopyridines are potent stimulators of δ subunit-containing GABAA receptors and therefore potentially cost-effective treatments for PPD. Barbiturates are often not prescribed, owing to risk of dependence and respiratory depression. The pyrazolopyridines were tested several decades ago for anxiety and depression but never developed commercially. Herein we use the FDA-approved dosing schedule of brexanolone and GABAA receptor binding data from various animal models to examine the safety, efficacy, and potential clinical utility of barbiturates and pyrazolopyridines for the treatment of PPD. We suggest consideration of repurposing barbiturates and pyrazolopyridines as safe and readily available treatment alternatives for PPD.
High-SMSR wavelength-swept laser with a CL-band mode-hopping free tuning range
Authors: Qiao Shan , Sheng Liwen , Huang Lin , Zhang Aiguo , Wei Yu , Liu Zhiming , Ju Junwei , Zhang Zhihui , Yin Bingqi , Li Peng , Han Jilei , Zhang Yiqi , Qu Tianyang
Published: February 2023

A high side-mode suppression ratio external-cavity wavelength-swept laser system with a wide mode-hopping free tuning range is developed. The proposed wavelength-swept laser is based on a single-angled facet gain chip in a classical Littman-Metcalf external-cavity configuration using a blazed diffraction grating as the feedback element. The output power, side-mode suppression ratio, and tunable range of the external-cavity wavelength-swept laser system are experimentally measured. Wide mode-hopping-free continuous wavelength tuning range about 100 nm in CL-band with a side-mode suppression ratio of more than 65.64 dB are realized. An output optical power of more than 14.12 dBm over the entire tunable region can also be achieved. The proposed external-cavity wavelength-swept laser system allows simultaneously high side-mode suppression ratio and no mode-hopping tunable radiation, thus opening a door for practical applications such as optical modulation schemes.
The potential roles of galectin-3 in AKI and CKD
Authors: Wang Fengyun , Zhou Lixin , Eliaz Amity , Hu Chang , Qiang Xinhua , Ke Li , Chertow Glenn , Eliaz Isaac , Peng Zhiyong
Published: February 2023

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common condition with high morbidity and mortality, and is associated with the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The beta-galactoside binding protein galectin-3 (Gal3), with its proinflammatory and profibrotic properties, has been implicated in the development of both AKI and CKD. Serum Gal3 levels are elevated in patients with AKI and CKD, and elevated Gal3 is associated with progression of CKD. In addition, Gal3 is associated with the incidence of AKI among critically ill patients, and blocking Gal3 in murine models of sepsis and ischemia-reperfusion injury results in significantly lower AKI incidence and mortality. Here we review the role of Gal3 in the pathophysiology of AKI and CKD, as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting Gal3.
Magnesium improved fruit quality by regulating photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency, carbon–nitrogen metabolism, and anthocyanin biosynthesis in ‘Red Fuji’ apple
Authors: Tian Ge , Qin Hanhan , Liu Chunling , Xing Yue , Feng Ziquan , Xu Xinxiang , Liu Jingquan , Lyu Mengxue , Jiang Han , Zhu Zhanling , Jiang Yuanmao , Ge Shunfeng
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Both nitrogen (N) and magnesium (Mg) play important roles in biochemical and physiological processes in plants. However, the application of excessive N and insufficient Mg may be the factor leading to low nitrogen utilization rate (NUE) and fruit quality degradation in apple production.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed the effects of different application rates of Mg (0, 50, 100, 150, 200 kg/ha) on the photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency (PNUE), the accumulation and distribution of carbon (C), N metabolism, anthocyanin biosynthesis and fruit quality of the ‘Red Fuji’ apple in 2018 and 2019.

Results

The results showed that the application of Mg significantly increased the 15NUE and increased the allocation rate of 15N in the leaves whereas the 15N allocation rate in the perennial organs and fruits was decreased. With the increase in Mg supply, the activities of N metabolism enzymes (NiR, GS, and GOGAT) were significantly promoted and the content of intermediate products in N metabolism (NO2−, NH4+, and free amino acid) was significantly decreased. Furthermore, an appropriate rate of Mg significantly promoted the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency (PNUE), enhanced the enzyme activities of C metabolism (SS, SPS, S6PDH), and increased the contents of sorbitol and sucrose in leaves. In addition, Mg upregulated the gene expression of sugar transporters (MdSOT1, MdSOT3, MdSUT1, and MdSUT4) in fruit stalk and fruit fresh; 13C isotope tracer technology also showed that Mg significantly increased the 13C allocation in the fruits. Mg also significantly increased the expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes (MdCHS and MdF3H) and transcription factors (MdMYB1 and MdbZIP44) and the content of anthocyanin in apple peel.

Conclusion

The comprehensive analysis showed that the appropriate application of Mg (150 kg/ha) promoted PNUE, C–N metabolism, and anthocyanin biosynthesis in apple trees.
Effects of wingwave® on athletes’ wellbeing and fluidity of gaze behavior
Authors: Weiland Frank Peter Gadso , Noël Benjamin , Klatt Stefanie
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The wingwave® method combining a muscular test and elements of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing has been found to successfully reduce anxiety and improve relaxation in people. However, it is still unclear how exactly its application improves individual wellbeing (though it is assumed to be related to changes in gaze patterns) and if it works for team sport athletes.

Method

To test both, team sport athletes who had reported a problem with a team sport aspect were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group members were individually coached by a wingwave® coach once while the other participants watched a tennis match instead.

Results

Results showed that athletes in the wingwave® group benefited from the coaching as their individual perception of their problems improved. These improvements were associated with a decrease of catch-up saccades in a visual object-tracking task conducted before and immediately after coaching.

Discussion

This points to wingwave® interventions affecting gaze behavior and consequently wellbeing of team sport athletes.
Nurses’ perceptions of the ISBAR handover protocol and its relationship to the quality of handover: A case study of bilingual nurses
Authors: Pun Jack
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Poor communication at handover may cause harm to the patient. Despite numerous studies promoting ISBAR as a communication tool for structured handover, nurses have varied levels of understanding of the ISBAR tool; this may lead to different perceptions. This paper aims to explore the structural relationships between factors relating to handover communication among nurses.

Method

A path analysis was conducted to analyse how 206 bilingual nurses’ knowledge of the ISBAR affects the perceived quality of handover, using a validated Nursing Handover Perception Questionnaire.

Results

Nurses’ knowledge of the ISBAR was not a statistically significant factor affecting the perceived quality of handover. Rather, nurses’ understanding of patients’ care plans and receiving updated information about patients determine the perceived quality of handover.

Discussion

Nurses’ compliance with the ISBAR tool should be considered in order to further identify and develop effective communication skills. Nurses’ understanding of patients’ care plans and receiving updated patient information significantly corresponded to the perceived quality of handover.
The impact of gender differences in teachers’ teaching practices and attitudes on students’ math and science achievement in Saudi Arabia: Evidence from TIMSS 2019 data
Authors: Alnahdi Ghaleb Hamad , Schwab Susanne
Published: February 2023

Previous results from large-scale studies often identified a gender gap in achievement outcomes between girls and boys. This study aims to investigate the existence of a relationship between students’ grades and gender differences in practices and attitudes among teachers. Data from the Saudi Arabian TIMSS 2019 were analyzed for this study. The dataset contains data from 10,817 4th grade students (5,447 girls and 5,370 boys) who took math and science as well as data from their 437 teachers (around 50% were female teachers). The results showed that teachers’ teaching practices were positively associated with students’ scores in math and science. In addition, teachers’ attitudes toward teaching were positively associated with students’ scores. Female teachers held more positive attitudes toward teaching and were rated more positively in terms of practices by their students.

Highlights

– Teacher practices were positively associated with students’ achievement.

– Teachers’ attitudes were positively associated with students’ achievement.

– Female teachers hold more positive attitudes toward teaching.

– There are differences in teaching style and practices based on gender.
The psychological consequences of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) for the family system: A systematic review
Authors: Gandino Gabriella , Diecidue Alessia , Sensi Annalisa , Venera Ester Maria , Finzi Sarah , Civilotti Cristina , Veglia Fabio , Di Fini Giulia
Published: February 2023

The Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a tragic and difficult experience for families. It involves not only the death of the baby but also the loss of a future as a parent, sibling or grandparent. The subsequent grief is multifaceted and each family member has different needs and resources. Through a systematic review of literature, we identified 24 studies between 1982 and 2021: they dealt with individual, family and couple experience when a SIDS occurs; in addition, some studies compared perinatal loss and neonatal loss with SIDS loss. Our results point out the need for an intervention that focuses on the needs of each family member and tailored around the specifics of SIDS loss rather than general grief.
How the smart product attributes influence consumer adoption intention
Authors: Li Ming , Bai Xuchen , Xing Saipeng , Wang Xueying
Published: February 2023

Compared with traditional products, the connection attributes and intelligence attributes of the smart product are their differentiated competitive advantages. In order to understand how smart product attributes affect consumer attitudes and the influencing mechanism, we carry out this study. In the framework of psychological empowerment, this paper explores the relationship between smart product attributes and consumers’ adoption intention. We consider that companies can launch a range of smart products, where the probability of success is related to the degree to which intelligent and connection attributes stimulate consumer motivation. Smart products with intelligence attributes and connection attributes can improve consumers’ cognition of the four motivations consist of meaning, ability, autonomy and influence, which activate consumers’ psychological sense of empowerment, and thus improve consumers’ willingness to adopt. In addition, we also find that consumer heterogeneity influences this process. This paper mainly reports the moderating effect of Consumer domain-specific innovation. We find that the connection and intelligence attributes of smart products stimulate consumers’ adoption intention effectively. The findings of this paper complement innovation management literature related to smart product attributes and provide suggestions for enterprises to introduce smart products.
Mental health in dance: A scoping review
Authors: Dwarika Michelle Schachtler , Haraldsen Heidi Marian
Published: February 2023

Research in dance psychology and mental health is rapidly growing. Yet, evidence in the field can seem dispersed due to few existing meta overviews that outline research in dance related to mental health. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review is to strengthen future dance research by gathering and contextualizing existing findings on mental health in dance. Following the PRISMA guidelines and protocols, 115 studies were included in the review. Overall, the data analysis shows a predominant adoption of quantitative research but a lack of applied interventions of preventive and reactive procedures in mental health. Similarly, there is a tendency to study pre-professional dancers, whereas research into professional dancers, especially aged 30–60 is underrepresented. Dance genres have been unevenly investigated, with classical ballet being the most researched, whereas different dance styles and freelance employment are in dire need of in-depth investigation. Conceptualizing mental health as a dynamic state, the thematic analysis identified three main categories:stressors, mental processes,andoutcomes.These factors appear to be in a complex interaction. Overall, the existing literature gives indications of components essential to understanding dancers’ mental health but has several blind spots and shortcomings. Therefore, a lot of in-depth understanding and research is still needed to fully grasp the dynamic complexity of mental health in dance.
When the disposition effect proves to be rational: Experimental evidence from professional traders
Authors: Guenther Benno , Lordan Grace
Published: February 2023

The disposition effect is a behavioural finance anomaly that has been observed in many populations including non-professional investors as well as professional investors and has been linked to reduced trading performance. However, the majority of studies to date have looked at the disposition effect in the context of non-mean reverting markets. We conducted a within-subject experiment with n = 193 professional traders, to examine how the tendency towards the disposition effect varies across decision-making for mean reverting securities and non-mean reverting securities. In addition, we consider whether a simple informational intervention that makes the disposition effect salient can alter decision-making. Overall, we find that prior to the intervention the traders exhibit the disposition effect in the direction that aligns with profit maximisation goals suggesting that they are acting rational. For decisions on mean reverting securities the traders tend to make decisions in the direction of the disposition effect, which is rational given their mean reverting properties. We also find that the informational intervention is effective in changing the level of the disposition effect observed and decision-making, regardless of whether traders are considering decisions over mean reverting or non-mean reverting securities. Further, we provide evidence that our simple informational intervention improves trader returns when making decisions on non-mean reverting securities. In contrast, it has a negative impact when utilised for mean reverting securities. Our study highlights the power of simple interventions to make disproportionately large changes to decision-making regardless of whether they are in our best interests, and their beneficial role only when the context is right.
The reverse buffering effect of workplace attachment style on the relationship between workplace bullying and work engagement
Authors: Hamel Jean-Félix , Iodice Pierpaolo , Radic Klara , Scrima Fabrizio
Published: February 2023

Using the Job Demands-Resources model, this study investigates workplace attachment styles as predictors of work engagement and moderators of the well-established disengaging effect of workplace bullying. As a personal resource, we hypothesized that secure workplace attachment would foster work engagement, whereas both types of insecure workplace attachment (i.e., avoidant and preoccupied) would do the opposite. Previous work also led us to expect the relationship between workplace bullying and engagement to be stronger when targets expect it to act as job resource (i.e., secure workplace attachment) and weaker when their working model is consistent with workplace aggression–i.e., reverse buffering effects. Using the PROCESS macro, we tested these hypotheses in a convenience sample of French office employees (N = 472) who completed an online survey. Secure workplace attachment was associated with higher work engagement while insecure workplace attachment and bullying perceptions related negatively with work engagement. Supporting our hypotheses, feeling exposed to workplace bullying was most associated with disengagement in employees with a secure workplace attachment style and less so in others. Far from recommending insecure bonds as protection, our results rather highlight the need to prevent all forms of workplace aggression, thereby allowing employees to rely on their work environment as a job resource.
Parental burnout and adolescents’ academic burnout: Roles of parental harsh discipline, psychological distress, and gender
Authors: Zhang Han , Li Shujun , Wang Ruimei , Hu Qing
Published: February 2023

Parental burnout is an emerging hot issue in discussions about children’s mental health and development. However, little is known about the underlying psychological mechanisms of parental burnout on children’s academic burnout. To fill in this gap, we aim to examine the relationship between parental burnout and adolescents’ academic burnout, as well as the mediating effects of harsh discipline, adolescents’ psychological distress, and the moderating effect of gender. A sample of 871 junior high school students (477 boys and 394 girls) and their primary caregivers from Eastern China participated in this study. The results showed a direct relationship between parental burnout and academic burnout as well as an indirect relationship through the mediating role of psychological distress and the chain-mediating roles of parental harsh discipline and psychological distress. Furthermore, we discovered that fathers’ parental burnout had a stronger effect on children’s psychological distress than mothers. These findings contribute to our understanding of how parental burnout relates to children’s academic burnout and underline the significance of fathers’ parental burnout.
Enhancing EFL students’ engagement in online synchronous classes: The role of the Mentimeter platform
Authors: Tarazi Ayat , Ortega-Martín José Luis
Published: February 2023

The present research aimed to evaluate teachers’ attitudes toward the use of the Mentimeter platform in synchronous education. This study also sought to delve into teachers’ perspectives on the role of the Mentimeter platform in improving students’ engagement in online synchronous classes. To that end, the study was carried out in Palestine in response to the ongoing shift to synchronous online teaching to raise teachers’ consciousness about the importance of using online tools to boost students’ engagement and make them feel connected in synchronous classes. A quantitative approach was used to collect data, and 44 Palestinian teachers from various educational institutions completed closed-ended questionnaires. The study’s outcomes demonstrated that teachers had positive attitudes toward employing the Mentimeter platform in synchronous education. The results also indicated that almost all educators perceived that the Mentimeter platform serves a vital role in increasing student engagement in online synchronous sessions. Teachers asserted that Mentimeter presentation styles decrease the probability of boredom among students, which in turn encourages them to actively participate in online synchronous classes. Enhancing students’ engagement in online synchronous classes was still a main challenge for educators. Therefore, to increase students’ involvement in synchronous learning environments, it is necessary to regularly train the teaching staff of schools, learning institutions, and colleges in the use of Mentimeter. Future studies in Palestine and other countries are also recommended to simultaneously concentrate on teachers’ and students’ viewpoints.
Prosocial behavior in toddlerhood and early childhood: Consistency across subtypes and over time
Authors: Paz Yael , Davidov Maayan , Orlitsky Tal , Hayut Mor , Roth-Hanania Ronit , Zahn-Waxler Carolyn
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Young children show their capacity for compassion and their desire to enhance the welfare of others in multiple ways. The present study sought to address gaps in knowledge regarding prosociality in the early years. Specifically, the study examined whether different subtypes of prosociality are interrelated, whether they are consistent over time, as well as the meaning of young children’s spontaneous versus cued prosocial behavior.

Methods

In a longitudinal sample (N= 151), three subtypes of prosocial behavior—instrumental helping, compassionate helping (comforting), and sharing—were assessed using behavioral tasks in toddlerhood (18 months) and early childhood (36 months).

Results

Consistent with hypothesis, partial convergence was found between the different prosociality subtypes at each age. There was also modest continuity over time, both within and across prosocial subtypes. Moreover, at both ages, when children helped or shared spontaneously, they also provided more assistance in the task. Children’s tendency to assist spontaneously was partially consistent across situations by early childhood.

Discussion

The findings indicate that a moderately stable disposition toward prosociality is already evident during early ontogeny. Moreover, different subtypes of prosocial behavior are distinct yet interrelated in the early years, suggesting they have both common and unique underlying mechanisms. Lastly, young children’s spontaneous (versus cued) prosocial action appears to reflect both motivational and cognitive processes.