bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Wind Force on Cyclists From Passing Vehicles
Authors: Madkour Fatma Elzahraa , Lowry Michael , Abdel-Rahim Ahmed , Hammad Ahmad , Vibhav Durgesh , Paulo Yu
Published: April 2023

Cyclists must withstand significant wind force from passing vehicles. This study analyzed the magnitude of wind force generated by different vehicle types (sports utility vehicle, pickup truck, single unit truck, and semi-trailer truck), vehicle speeds (25, 40, and 60 mph), separation distances (2 ft, 4 ft, and 6 ft), and cyclist riding positions (racing and touring). Three research methods were used: field tests in controlled and natural environments, computational fluid dynamic simulations, and scaled-model wind tunnel experiments. The analysis focused on assessing longitudinal and transverse wind forces that are directed at the cyclist in parallel and perpendicular directions, respectively. All three methods showed the expected trend—that wind force increases with an increase in vehicle muzzle bluntness, vehicle speed, and cyclist proximity. Selected measurements and various models are provided. The wind force to knock a cyclist over (i.e., the flipping moment) was calculated for each test scenario (vehicle type, speed, and separation distance) and compared with the recommended limit (17 N) found in the literature. The semi-trailer truck generated flipping moments that exceeded the limit for all scenarios except 25 mph and 6 ft separation. All the vehicles, at all the speeds tested, exceeded the limit at 2 ft separation. This novel use of simulation and wind tunnel experiments provides groundwork for future research.
Alterations of commensal microbiota are associated with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Chen Tian , Li Xuejiao , Li Gaoming , Liu Yun , Huang Xiaochun , Ma Wei , Qian Chao , Guo Jie , Wang Shuo , Qin Qin , Liu Shanrong
Published: April 2023

Background

Dysbiosis commonly occurs in pancreatic cancer, but its specific characteristics and interactions with pancreatic cancer remain obscure.

Materials and methods

The 16S rRNA sequencing method was used to analyze multisite (oral and gut) microbiota characteristics of pancreatic cancer, chronic pancreatitis, and healthy controls. Differential analysis was used to identify the pancreatic cancer-associated genera and pathways. A random forest algorithm was adopted to establish the diagnostic models for pancreatic cancer.

Results

The chronic pancreatitis group exhibited the lowest microbial diversity, while no significant difference was found between the pancreatic cancer group and healthy controls group. Diagnostic models based on the characteristics of the oral (area under the curve (AUC) 0.916, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.832-1) or gut (AUC 0.856; 95% CI 0.74, 0.972) microbiota effectively discriminate the pancreatic cancer samples in this study, suggesting saliva as a superior sample type in terms of detection efficiency and clinical compliance. Oral pathogenic genera ( Granulicatella, Peptostreptococcus, Alloprevotella, Veillonella, etc.) and gut opportunistic genera ( Prevotella, Bifidobacterium, Escherichia/Shigella, Peptostreptococcus, Actinomyces, etc.), were significantly enriched in pancreatic cancer. The 16S function prediction analysis revealed that inflammation, immune suppression, and barrier damage pathways were involved in the course of pancreatic cancer.

Conclusion

This study comprehensively described the microbiota characteristics of pancreatic cancer and suggested potential microbial markers as non-invasive tools for pancreatic cancer diagnosis.
Odds of Cardiometabolic Diseases and Medications in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Dum Rachel , Walter Vonn , Thomas Neal J. , Krawiec Conrad
Published: April 2023

Introduction/Objectives

Individuals with cerebral palsy may be at risk of obesity, but outcomes and risk factors are understudied. The study objectives are to evaluate the frequency of body mass index (BMI) weight categories of individuals with cerebral palsy and the odds of cardiometabolic-specific diseases and medications. We hypothesize subjects with cerebral palsy and an increased body mass index will have higher odds of cardiometabolic specific diseases and medications.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational cohort study utilizing TriNetX, an electronic health record database, in subjects with cerebral palsy aged 2-18 years with an available body mass index. The study population was divided into 4 body mass index percentile categories, underweight (<5th body mass index percentile), healthy weight (≥5th to <85th percentile), overweight (≥85th to <95th percentile), and obese (≥95th percentile), and the odds of the following variables were evaluated: diagnostic codes and medication codes. We computed the odds ratio to test for associations between the body mass index categories and the variables of interest.

Results

A total of 5993 subjects were included: underweight (251, 4.2%), healthy weight (2390, 39.9%), overweight (943, 15.7%), and obese (2409, 40.2%). Obese subjects had a higher odds of asthma, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and sleep apnea when compared to the health weight group.

Conclusions

This study found patients with cerebral palsy classified as obese had higher odds of cardiometabolic comorbidity and medication codes that influence weight. Body mass index measurements are limited in this population but may be used cautiously to evaluate the body type of children with cerebral palsy and monitor cardiometabolic-associated comorbidity occurrence.
Research on the relationship between the tightening torque and the preload of composite bolted structures
Authors: Xuande Yue , Ying Xie , Lei Liu , Qinlin Xiong , Zhihua Jiang , Xihui Tao , Zhichun Liu
Published: April 2023

Bolted joints are widely used in assembly of composite structures that transmit large loads. The relationship between torque ( T) and preload ( F) is needed to be obtained when using the torque method to tighten bolts. In this paper, the T- F relationship in the process of bolt tightening composite laminates was analyzed through bolt tightening experiments. The variation behavior of friction coefficient in this process was also studied. On this basis, a progressive damage finite element model was established using the improved LaRC05 criterion to analyze the stress and damage of the composite laminate during tightening. The various stages in the bolt tightening were divided and the mechanical properties of each stage were analyzed. The results of the study showed that the thread friction coefficient μth and the bearing friction coefficient μb change with the preload during the tightening process. Its behavior can be described using an exponential function. Serious stress concentration and assembly damage can be formed in the direct extrusion area of the outer edge of the locknut when the composite laminate is bolted. The bolt tightening process of composite laminates can be divided into five stages. Research conclusions are valuable for understanding composite structures and formulating the bolt tightening process.
Maneuver-based trajectory planning with fast collision check for autonomous vehicles in a low-speed road environment
Authors: Li Zheng , Wang Yijing , Zuo Zhiqiang
Published: April 2023

For autonomous vehicles driving in a low-speed road environment like complex campus, there are several peculiarities such as two-way lanes, break-in obstacles, smaller safety margin, etc. In this paper, a novel maneuver-based trajectory planning scheme is designed for autonomous vehicles driving in a low-speed environment with uncertain dynamic obstacles. First, a quintic polynomial is adopted to generate candidate trajectories and we develop a fast collision check algorithm to guarantee safety. In contrast to the existing methods, our collision check can reduce computation time with less conservatism. To balance the conflict between overtaking and lane-keeping, varying maneuvers are proposed to determine different weights in cost function for selecting the optimal trajectory. Simulations with uncertain low-speed obstacles are conducted to evaluate the performance of our proposed method.
Extramammary Paget’s disease of vulva and metastatic adenocarcinoma: A rare conundrum
Authors: Goyal Aman , Bishnoi Anuradha , Mehta Hitaishi , Chatterjee Debajyoti , Rai Bhavana , Bagga Rashmi , Kumaran Muthu Sendhil
Published: April 2023

Extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD) is a rare intraepithelial adenocarcinoma. To increase awareness and knowledge regarding this rare dermatosis, we hereby reported a case of ulcerated plaque on genitalia.
Effectiveness and safety of topical application of diphenylcyclopropenone versus podophyllin in treatment of genital warts
Authors: Halim Halim Maher , Ahmed Sahar Fathy Abd Elshafy , Eyada Moustafa MK
Published: April 2023

Background

Many therapeutic modalities are available for treating genital warts; however, the effectiveness of both diphenylcyclopropenone and podophyllin is still controversial.

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of diphenylcyclopropenone and podophyllin in treating genital warts.

Methods

This study included 57 patients, divided randomly into two groups. Group (A): diphenylcyclopropenone ( n = 29). Group (B): podophyllin 25% ( n = 28). In group (A), sensitization was done with 2% diphenylcyclopropenone. Then, after 1 or 2 weeks, treatment started with a weekly application of diphenylcyclopropenone solutions ranging between 0.001 and 1% until clearance, or for a maximum of 10 sessions. In group (B), podophyllin 25% was applied weekly until clearance or for a maximum of 6 weeks.

Results

Higher clearance was achieved in group A, with 19 of 29 (65.5%) patients, than in group B, with 9 of 28 (32.1%) ( p-value = 0.004). Also, effectiveness increases with young age in group A. Shorter wart duration was associated with better response in both groups ( p-value = 0.005). No serious adverse effects occurred in either group. No recurrence was detected in group A, while seven patients (77.8%) had recurrence in group B after 1 year of follow up.

Conclusion

Diphenylcyclopropenone shows a higher success rate than podophyllin in treating genital warts and a lower recurrence rate.
Non-renewable energy effects of trade in intermediate and final products: Evidence from emerging industrial economies
Authors: Demiral Mehmet , Demiral Özge , Öztürk-Çetenak Özlem , Özaytürk Gürçem , Özaytürk İbrahim
Published: April 2023

The interest in the trade–environment nexus is growing for emerging countries as their participation in world trade is increasing. However, the available evidence regarding the non-renewable energy effects of trade in intermediate and final products is limited. This study addresses this gap and investigates the separate effects of per capita exports and imports of intermediate and final products on per capita non-renewable energy supply (NES) in the case of 22 emerging industrial economies (EIEs) between 1995 and 2018. The study also considers per capita environmental inventions (EnvINV), industry value-added (IND), services value-added (SERV), and renewable energy supply (RES). After confirming that the modeled variables are cross-sectionally dependent, first-difference stationary, and cointegrated, the long-run heterogeneous coefficients are estimated through the common correlated effects mean group and augmented mean group estimators. Consistent results show that although both are positively associated with NES, the magnitudes of the impacts of intermediate product imports are higher than that of intermediate product exports. Similar effects are observed in the final product trade. The Dumitrescu–Hurlin test finds unidirectional causalities from all trade indicators to NES. Additional results reveal positive impacts of IND and SERV, negative effects of RES, and insignificant impacts of EnvINV. Several policy insights are provided to better inform practitioners about the environmental implications of emerging economies’ trade specialization pattern in energy-intensive global production networks.
A family at war: The life and times of Frank McLardy, pharmacist
Authors: Jones Chris
Published: April 2023

George Francis ‘Frank’ McLardy (1915–1981) was a pharmacist who lived in Formby in the 1930s. He came from an unremarkable lower middle-class family and enjoyed considerable success at school and later at technical college and pharmacy school. He became a qualified pharmacist just before the war broke. He volunteered for the army and was sent to France with the British Expeditionary Force. In France, he witnessed the collapse of the allied forces and was quickly captured. He spent the rest of the war in Poland and in Germany. This was the fate of many young men during the war. What makes McLardy's case unique is that, prior to the war, had a very active role in the Liverpool district of the British Union of Fascists and, while a prisoner of war (POW) he offered to work for the Germans against the Russians and visited POW camps recruiting British men for a unit which aimed to go to the eastern front and fight in German uniforms. Moreover, he did all this while still actively using his qualification as a pharmacist
A proposed clinical pathway for the patients with Borderline Personality Disorder presenting to Emergency Departments
Authors: Webb Beatrice , Looi Jeffrey CL , Allison Stephen , Nance Michael , Dhillon Rohan , Bastiampillai Tarun
Published: April 2023

Objective

Emergency Department (ED) care of repeated self-injury, intensive affective lability, and interpersonal dysfunction associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD) is challenging. We propose an evidence-based acute clinical pathway for people with BPD.

Conclusion

Our standardised evidence-based short-term acute hospital treatment pathway includes structured ED assessment, structured short-term hospital admission when clinically indicated, and immediate short-term (4-sessions) clinical follow-up. This approach could be adopted nationally to reduce iatrogenic harm, acute service overdependence and negative healthcare system impacts of BPD.
There’s a Time and Place for Timeout
Authors: Rogers Davida J. , Bundrick Karan S. , Ryan Joseph B. , Afram Love
Published: April 2023

Timeout has been used extensively within schools to address inappropriate behavior in children. In practice, timeout is not a single strategy; rather, it is a compilation of related practices. Some forms of timeout are research-based practices for modifying student behavior. However, others lack research support and frequently are misused, hindering academic performance and risking harm to children. This article reviews the different types of timeout and shares best practices to help teachers use timeout successfully.
An observation checklist for use by residential social workers in juvenile justice institutions
Authors: Lampe Kore G , Mulder Eva A , Vermeiren Robert RJM , Colins Olivier F
Published: April 2023

Structured observation can be valuable to complement self or parent reports used for diagnostic information or risk assessment, although this method is hardly used and understudied in residential forensic settings. To fill this void an observation checklist for residential social workers working in juvenile justice institutions was developed, along with an instruction manual and a training program.

Findings

In the first two sections, this paper describes how an intensive collaboration between residential social workers, clinicians, researchers, and educators resulted in the development (1) and implementation (2) of an observation checklist for residential social workers. The observation checklist captures six concepts: Proactive and Reactive aggression, Hyperactivity, Impulsivity, Signs of depressed mood, and Lack of reciprocity. In a third, final section, this paper provides a preliminary evaluation of the inter-rater reliability of the six observation checklist concepts (3). Acceptable completion rates of the observation checklist by residential social workers were obtained and the training program resulted in reported improved professional expertise of residential social workers. Moreover, preliminary psychometric evaluation demonstrated acceptable to excellent inter-rater reliability, when expressed as percentage of agreement.

Applications

In conclusion, this novel observation checklist offers a promising opportunity to collect information that can be used for diagnostic purposes. Limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Religious positionalities and political science research in ‘the field’ and beyond: Insights from Vietnam, Lebanon and the UK
Authors: Rumsby Seb , Eggert Jennifer Philippa
Published: April 2023

This article contributes to the growing literature on researcher reflexivity by broaching the often-ignored issue of religious positionalities within political science, as well as speaking to the methodological implications of researching religion more broadly. We present and compare two autoethnographic case studies of research on politico-religious conflict in Vietnam and Lebanon, exploring how a researcher’s religiosity presents unique fieldwork challenges, opportunities and insights. We then discuss the ambivalence faced by religious researchers within the highly secularised academic environment, thus blurring the artificial dichotomy between ‘the field’ and the academy. Our reflections centre around three findings: (1) the importance of taking an intersectional approach which neither essentialises nor ignores religious aspects of positionality, whilst also being sensitive to spatial and temporal shifts in how they interact with a researcher’s gender, ethnicity, class and other identifiers; (2) the opportunities and perils of a researcher’s apparent religious common ground with participants (or lack thereof) in building rapport and negotiating a degree of insider status; and (3) the similarities and differences between suspicions of religious partialism during fieldwork and within academia.
Republicanism and moralised freedom
Authors: Moen Lars JK
Published: April 2023

A moralised conception of freedom is based on a normative theory. Understanding it therefore requires an analysis of this theory. In this paper, I show how republican freedom as non-domination is moralised, and why analysing this concept therefore involves identifying the basic components of the republican theory of justice. One of these components is the non-moralised pure negative conception of freedom as non-interference. Republicans therefore cannot keep insisting that their freedom concept conflicts with, and is superior to, this more basic concept. I demonstrate how we can use pure negative freedom to formulate the republican theory more precisely. This exercise is more fruitful than the common focus on the alleged conflict between the two freedom concepts.
statacons: An SCons-based build tool for Stata
Authors: Guiteras Raymond P. , Kim Ahnjeong , Quistorff Brian , Shumway Clayson
Published: April 2023

In this article, we present statacons, an SCons-based build tool for Stata. Because of the integration of Stata and Python in recent versions of Stata, we are able to adapt SCons for Stata workflows without the use of an external shell or extensive configuration. We discuss the usefulness of build tools generally, provide examples of the use of statacons in Stata workflows, present key elements of the syntax of statacons, and discuss extensions, alternatives, and limitations. We provide recommendations for collaborative workflows and, at the end of the article, installation instructions.
SENP3 facilitates M1 macrophage polarization via the HIF-1α/PKM2 axis in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury
Authors: He Shuangjun , Fan Chenyu , Ji Yiming , Su Qian , Zhao Feng , Xie Cuiying , Chen Xuelian , Zhang Yang , Chen Yi
Published: April 2023

M1/M2 macrophage polarization plays a pivotal role in the development of acute lung injury (ALI). The hypoxia-inducible factor-1α/pyruvate kinase M2 (HIF-1α/PKM2) axis, which functions upstream of macrophage polarization, has been implicated in this process. The function of HIF-1α is known to be tightly regulated by SUMOylation. Upregulation of SUMO-specific peptidase 3 (SENP3), a deSUMOylation enzyme, is induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are abundantly produced during ALI. To explore the links between SENP3, macrophage polarization, and lung injury, we used mice with Senp3 conditional knockout in myeloid cells. In the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI model, we found that in vitro and in vivo SENP3 deficiency markedly inhibited M1 polarization and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and alleviated lung injury. Further, we demonstrated that SENP3 deficiency suppressed the LPS-induced inflammatory response through PKM2 in a HIF-1α-dependent manner. Moreover, mice injected with LPS after PKM2 inhibitor (shikonin) treatment displayed inhibition of M1 macrophage polarization and reduced lung injury. In summary, this work revealed that SENP3 promotes M1 macrophage polarization and production of proinflammatory cytokines via the HIF-1α/PKM2 axis, contributing to lung injury; thus, SENP3 may represent a potential therapeutic target for ALI treatment.
Identifying Sources of Moral Distress Amongst Critical Care Staff During the Covid-19 Pandemic Using a Naturalistic Inquiry
Authors: Scott Margaret , Wade Rachel , Tucker Guy , Unsworth John
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Moral distress can have a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of practitioners. Causes of moral distress in critical care have been identified as futile treatment, conflict between family members and staff, lack of resources, and dysfunctional teams.

Objectives

This study explores the sources of moral distress during the COVID-19 pandemic and the meaning that staff attached to these events. The study aims to examine whether the sources of moral distress are similar, or different, to those that commonly occur in critical care departments.

Methods

Naturalistic inquiry using semi-structured individual interviews with 17 participants drawn from nursing ( n = 12), medicine ( n = 3), and the allied health professions ( n = 2). The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The results suggested that while there were some similar sources of moral distress including caring for dying patients and not being able to provide the usual standard of care, the nature of the disease trajectory and frequency of death had a significant impact. In addition, the researchers found that providing care which was counter-intuitive, concerns about the risks to the staff and their families and the additional burdens associated with leading teams in times of uncertainty were identified as sources of moral distress.

Conclusion

This study explored the potential sources of moral distress during the pandemic and the meaning that practitioners attached to their experiences. There were some similarities with the sources of moral distress in critical care which occur outside of a pandemic. However, the frequency and intensity of the experiences are likely to be different during a pandemic, with staff describing high volumes of deaths without family members present. In addition, new sources of moral distress related to uncertainty, counter-intuitive care and concerns about personal and family risk of infection were identified.
Systemic sclerosis and primary biliary cholangitis: Longitudinal data to determine the outcomes
Authors: Lepri Gemma , Airò Paolo , Distler Oliver , Andréasson Kristofer , Braun-Moscovici Yolanda , Hachulla Eric , Balbir-Gurman Alexandra , De Langhe Ellen , Rednic Simona , Ingegnoli Francesca , Rosato Edoardo , Groseanu Laura , Ionescu Ruxandra , Bellando-Randone Silvia , Garzanova Liudmila , Beretta Lorenzo , Bellocchi Chiara , Moiseev Sergey , Novikov Pavel , Szabo Iulia , Krasowska Dorota , Codullo Veronica , Walker Ulrich A. , Manolaraki Chrysoula , Guiducci Serena , Truchetet Marie-Elise , Iannone Florenzo , Tofani Lorenzo , Bruni Cosimo , Smith Vanessa , Cuomo Giovanna , Krusche Martin , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Allanore Yannick
Published: April 2023

Background:

Several studies described the cross-sectional characteristics of systemic sclerosis patients and coexisting primary biliary cholangitis, but longitudinal prognostic data are lacking.

Aims:

To describe the systemic sclerosis–primary biliary cholangitis phenotype, including baseline characteristics and outcomes.

Methods:

We performed a multicentre the European Scleroderma Trials and Research Group study of systemic sclerosis patients with primary biliary cholangitis or with primary biliary cholangitis–specific antibodies, matched with systemic sclerosis controls free from hepatobiliary involvement matched for disease duration and cutaneous subset. Data were recorded at baseline and at the last available visit.

Results:

A total of 261 patients were enrolled (115 primary biliary cholangitis–systemic sclerosis, 161 systemic sclerosis). At baseline, systemic sclerosis–primary biliary cholangitis patients had a higher prevalence of anti-centromere antibodies ( p = 0.0023) and a lower prevalence of complete absence of digital ulcers. The milder vascular involvement was confirmed at follow-up when crucial differences emerged in the percentage of patients experiencing digital ulcers; a significantly higher number of patients who never experienced digital ulcers were observed among primary biliary cholangitis–systemic sclerosis patients ( p = 0.0015). Moreover, a greater incidence of pulmonary arterial hypertension ( p < 0.001) and of conduction blocks ( p = 0.0256) was observed in systemic sclerosis patients without primary biliary cholangitis. Patients with primary biliary cholangitis had higher levels of liver enzymes at baseline than systemic sclerosis patients; a significant decrease in liver enzymes was observed at follow-up. Out of 18 patients with cholangitis, one received a liver transplant at follow-up.

Conclusion:

Our data show that systemic sclerosis–primary biliary cholangitis exhibit a mild systemic sclerosis and primary biliary cholangitis phenotype with outcomes being in general favourable.
The role of male hypogonadism, aging, and chronic diseases in characterizing adult and elderly men with erectile dysfunction: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lisco Giuseppe , Triggiani Vincenzo , Bartolomeo Nicola , Ramunni Maria Isabella , Pelusi Carla , De Pergola Giovanni , Guastamacchia Edoardo , Jirillo Emilio , Giagulli Vito Angelo
Published: April 2023

Background

Erectile function depends on a complex interaction between demographic, metabolic, vascular, hormonal, and psychological factors that trigger erectile dysfunction (ED). In the present study we carried out a cross-sectional study assessing the impact of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs), male hypogonadism, and demographic factors in characterizing men with ED. Four hundred thirty-three consecutive outpatients with ED were extracted from the electronic database from January 2017 to December 2019. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) 5 score was used to diagnose ED and stratify its severity, standardized values of serum testosterone (10.5 nM/L) and luteinizing hormone (LH 9.4 IU/L) to diagnose and classify male hypogonadism and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) to weigh the role of each NCD on ED.

Results

Forty-six percent of participants were eugonadal (EuG), 13% had organic hypogonadism (OrH), and the remaining 41% had functional hypogonadism (FuH). Hypogonadal men had a significantly lower IIEF 5 score (p < .0001) than EuG. FuH had a higher CCI than OrH and EuG (all p < .0001). In a multivariable model, only free T (FT) and Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) showed a direct correlation with the IIEF 5 score (all p < .0001). Age and CCI had an inverse correlation with IIEF 5 score (all p < .0001).

Conclusion

Serum FT, SHBG, and CCI are the leading determinants of ED severity. Besides overt hypogonadism, a relevant burden of severe NTCDs in middle-aged or older adults features the patient’s characteristics who will suffer from severe ED. Appropriate clinical approaches and, when necessary, treatments are required in these clusters of patients.
Oral exposure to thiacloprid-based pesticide (Calypso SC480) causes physical poisoning symptoms and impairs the cognitive abilities of bumble bees
Authors: Kaila Lotta , Antinoja Anna , Toivonen Marjaana , Jalli Marja , Loukola Olli J.
Published: April 2023

Background

Pesticides are identified as one of the major reasons for the global pollinator decline. However, the sublethal effects of pesticide residue levels found in pollen and nectar on pollinators have been studied little. The aim of our research was to study whether oral exposure to the thiacloprid levels found in pollen and nectar affect the learning and long-term memory of bumble bees. We tested the effects of two exposure levels of thiacloprid-based pesticide (Calypso SC480) on buff-tailed bumble bee (Bombus terrestris) in laboratory utilizing a learning performance and memory tasks designed to be difficult enough to reveal large variations across the individuals.

Results

The lower exposure level of the thiacloprid-based pesticide impaired the bees’ learning performance but not long-term memory compared to the untreated controls. The higher exposure level caused severe acute symptoms, due to which we were not able to test the learning and memory.

Conclusions

Our results show that oral exposure to a thiacloprid-based pesticide, calculated based on residue levels found in pollen and nectar, not only causes sublethal effects but also acute lethal effects on bumble bees. Our study underlines an urgent demand for better understanding of pesticide residues in the environment, and of the effects of those residue levels on pollinators. These findings fill the gap in the existing knowledge and help the scientific community and policymakers to enhance the sustainable use of pesticides.
Lint percentage and boll weight QTLs in three excellent upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum): ZR014121, CCRI60, and EZ60
Authors: Niu Hao , Kuang Meng , Huang Longyu , Shang Haihong , Yuan Youlu , Ge Qun
Published: April 2023

Background

Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is the most economically important species in the cotton genus (Gossypium spp.). Enhancing the cotton yield is a major goal in cotton breeding programs. Lint percentage (LP) and boll weight (BW) are the two most important components of cotton lint yield. The identification of stable and effective quantitative trait loci (QTLs) will aid the molecular breeding of cotton cultivars with high yield.

Results

Genotyping by target sequencing (GBTS) and genome-wide association study (GWAS) with 3VmrMLM were used to identify LP and BW related QTLs from two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations derived from high lint yield and fiber quality lines (ZR014121, CCRI60 and EZ60). The average call rate of a single locus was 94.35%, and the average call rate of an individual was 92.10% in GBTS. A total of 100 QTLs were identified; 22 of them were overlapping with the reported QTLs, and 78 were novel QTLs. Of the 100 QTLs, 51 QTLs were for LP, and they explained 0.29–9.96% of the phenotypic variation; 49 QTLs were for BW, and they explained 0.41–6.31% of the phenotypic variation. One QTL (qBW-E-A10-1, qBW-C-A10-1) was identified in both populations. Six key QTLs were identified in multiple-environments; three were for LP, and three were for BW. A total of 108 candidate genes were identified in the regions of the six key QTLs. Several candidate genes were positively related to the developments of LP and BW, such as genes involved in gene transcription, protein synthesis, calcium signaling, carbon metabolism, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Seven major candidate genes were predicted to form a co-expression network. Six significantly highly expressed candidate genes of the six QTLs after anthesis were the key genes regulating LP and BW and affecting cotton yield formation.

Conclusions

A total of 100 stable QTLs for LP and BW in upland cotton were identified in this study; these QTLs could be used in cotton molecular breeding programs. Putative candidate genes of the six key QTLs were identified; this result provided clues for future studies on the mechanisms of LP and BW developments.
Cranberry fruit epicuticular wax benefits and identification of a wax-associated molecular marker
Authors: Erndwein Lindsay , Kawash Joseph , Knowles Sara , Vorsa Nicholi , Polashock James
Published: April 2023

Background

As the global climate changes, periods of abiotic stress throughout the North American cranberry growing regions will become more common. One consequence of high temperature extremes and drought conditions is sunscald. Scalding damages the developing berry and reduces yields through fruit tissue damage and/or secondary pathogen infection. Irrigation runs to cool the fruit is the primary approach to controlling sunscald. However, it is water intensive and can increase fungal-incited fruit rot. Epicuticular wax functions as a barrier to various environmental stresses in other fruit crops and may be a promising feature to mitigate sunscald in cranberry. In this study we assessed the function of epicuticular wax in cranberries to attenuate stresses associated with sunscald by subjecting high and low epicuticular wax cranberries to controlled desiccation and light/heat exposure. A cranberry population that segregates for epicuticular wax was phenotyped for epicuticular fruit wax levels and genotyped using GBS. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analyses of these data identified a locus associated with epicuticular wax phenotype. A SNP marker was developed in the QTL region to be used for marker assisted selection.

Results

Cranberries with high epicuticular wax lost less mass percent and maintained a lower surface temperature following heat/light and desiccation experiments as compared to fruit with low wax. QTL analysis identified a marker on chromosome 1 at position 38,782,094 bp associated with the epicuticular wax phenotype. Genotyping assays revealed that cranberry selections homozygous for a selected SNP have consistently high epicuticular wax scores. A candidate gene (GL1-9), associated with epicuticular wax synthesis, was also identified near this QTL region.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that high cranberry epicuticular wax load may help reduce the effects of heat/light and water stress: two primary contributors to sunscald. Further, the molecular marker identified in this study can be used in marker assisted selection to screen cranberry seedlings for the potential to have high fruit epicuticular wax. This work serves to advance the genetic improvement of cranberry crops in the face of global climate change.
The burden of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in the United States
Authors: Tapper Elliot B. , Krieger Nancy , Przybysz Raymond , Way Nate , Cai Jennifer , Zappe Dion , McKenna Sarah Jane , Wall Garth , Janssens Nico , Balp Maria-Magdalena
Published: April 2023

Background

There is limited data on the comparative economic and humanistic burden of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in the United States. The objective was to examine the burden of disease comparing NASH to a representative sample of the general population and separately to a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) cohort by assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures, healthcare resource use (HRU) and work productivity and activity impairment (WPAI).

Methods

Data came from the 2016 National Health and Wellness Survey, a nationally representative patient-reported outcomes survey conducted in the United States. Respondents with physician-diagnosed NASH, physician-diagnosed T2DM, and respondents from the general population were compared. Humanistic burden was examined with mental (MCS) and physical (PCS) component summary scores from the Short-Form (SF)-36v2, concomitant diagnosis of anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties. Economic burden was analysed based on healthcare professional (HCP) and emergency room (ER) visits, hospitalizations in the past six months; absenteeism, presenteeism, overall work impairment, and activity impairment scores on WPAI questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariable analysis were conducted for each outcome and matched comparative group.

Results

After adjusting for baseline demographics and characteristics, NASH (N = 136) compared to the matched general population cohort (N = 544), reported significantly lower (worse) mental (MCS 43.19 vs. 46.22, p = 0.010) and physical (PCS 42.04 vs. 47.10, p < 0.001) status, higher % with anxiety (37.5% vs 25.5%, p = 0.006) and depression (43.4% vs 30.1%, p = 0.004), more HCP visits (8.43 vs. 5.17), ER visits (0.73 vs. 0.38), and hospitalizations (0.43 vs. 0.2) all p’s < 0.05, and higher WPAI scores (e.g. overall work impairment 39.64% vs. 26.19%, p = 0.011). NASH cohort did not differ from matched T2DM cohort (N = 272) on mental or work-related WPAI scores, but had significantly worse physical status (PCS 40.52 vs. 44.58, p = 0.001), higher % with anxiety (39.9% vs 27.8%, p = 0.043), more HCP visits (8.63 vs. 5.68, p = 0.003) and greater activity impairment (47.14% vs. 36.07%, p = 0.010).

Conclusion

This real-world study suggests that burden of disease is higher for all outcomes assessed among NASH compared to matched general controls. When comparing to T2DM, NASH cohort has comparable mental and work-related impairment but worse physical status, daily activities impairment and more HRU.
Two-year longitudinal associations between nutritional status and frailty in community-dwelling older adults: Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study
Authors: Kim Namhee , Kim Gwang Suk , Won Chang Won , Lee Jae Jun , Park Min Kyung , Shin Jinhee , Kim Miji
Published: April 2023

Background

Korea is expected to become a super-aged society in 2026, and improving nutritional status, which is directly related to health problems, is therefore important for increasing healthy life expectancy. Frailty is the most complex phenotype of aging, and leads to adverse health outcomes, disability, poor quality of life, hospitalization, and mortality. Malnutrition is a major risk factor for frailty syndrome. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of pre-frailty or frailty in the second wave (T2, 2018–2019) according to general characteristics and nutritional status in the first wave (T1, 2016–2017); and examine the longitudinal association of nutritional status in T1 and the incidence of pre-frailty or frailty in T2 among older adults living in a community.

Methods

A secondary data analysis was performed using the Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study (KFACS). Participants comprised 1125 community-dwelling older Korean adults aged 70–84 years (mean age: 75.03 ± 3.56 years; 53.8% males). Frailty was assessed using the Fried frailty index, and nutritional status was assessed using the Korean version of the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Form and blood nutritional biomarkers. Binary logistic regression was used to identify longitudinal associations between the nutritional status at T1 and pre-frailty or frailty at T2.

Results

Over the two-year follow-up period, 32.9% and 1.7% of the participants became pre-frail and frail, respectively. After the potential confounders were adjusted (sociodemographic, health behaviors, and health status characteristics), pre-frailty or frailty had a significant longitudinal association with severe anorexia (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 4.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–16.54), moderate anorexia (AOR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.46–3.64), psychological stress or acute disease (AOR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.26–5.39), and body mass index (BMI) less than 19 (AOR, 4.11; 95% CI, 1.20–14.04).

Conclusions

Anorexia, psychological stress, acute disease, and low BMI are the most significant longitudinal risk factors for pre-frailty or frailty in older adults. As nutritional risk factors may be preventable or modifiable, it is important to develop interventions targeting the same. Community-based health professionals in health-related fields should recognize and manage these indicators appropriately to prevent frailty among older adults living in the community.
The perception of risk in contracting and spreading COVID-19 amongst individuals, households and vulnerable groups in England: a longitudinal qualitative study
Authors: Hanna Kerry , Clarke Pam , Woolfall Kerry , Hassan Shaima , Abba Katharine , Hajj Taghreed El , Deja Elizabeth , Ahmed Saiqa , Joseph Neil , Ring Adele , Allen Gerry , Byrne Paula , Gabbay Mark
Published: April 2023

Background

Social distancing restrictions to manage the COVID-19 pandemic were put in place from March 2020 in the United Kingdom (UK), with those classed as “highly clinically vulnerable” advised to shield entirely and remain at home. However, personal risk perception has been shown to comprise of various elements beyond those outlined in the national pandemic guidance. It is unclear whether those deemed COVID-19 vulnerable identified as high-risk to COVID-19 and thus complied with the relevant advice. The aim of this research is to explore the perception of risk in catching and spreading COVID-19, amongst individuals from individual households, and vulnerable groups in a region of the UK.

Methods

Two individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted, four-weeks apart, with adults living in households in the Liverpool City Region. At the follow-up interview, participants were given the option of using photo-elicitation to guide the discussion. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed to conceptualise themes. The qualitative analysis was underpinned with symbolic interactionism.

Results

Twenty-seven participants (13:14 males:females, and 20 with a vulnerable risk factor to COVID-19) completed a baseline interview, and 15 of these completed a follow-up interview four-weeks later. Following thematic analysis, two overarching themes were conceptualised, with subthemes discussed: theme 1) Confusion and trust in the risk prevention guidance; and theme 2) Navigating risk: compliance and non-compliance with public health guidance.

Conclusion

Participants developed their own understanding of COVID-19 risk perception through personal experience and comparison with others around them, irrespective of vulnerability status. COVID-19 guidance was not complied with as intended by the government, and at times even rejected due to lack of trust. The format in which future pandemic guidance is conveyed must be carefully considered, and take into account individuals’ experiences that may lead to non-compliance. The findings from our study can inform future public health policy and interventions for COVID-19 and future pandemics.
Isha yoga practices, vegan diet, and participation in Samyama meditation retreat: impact on the gut microbiome & metabolome – a non-randomized trial
Authors: Raman Maitreyi , Vishnubhotla Ramana , Ramay Hena R. , Gonçalves Maria C. B. , Shin Andrea S. , Pawale Dhanashri , Subramaniam Balachundhar , Sadhasivam Senthilkumar
Published: April 2023

Background

Growing evidence suggests a role for gut bacteria and their metabolites in host-signaling responses along the gut-brain axis which may impact mental health. Meditation is increasingly utilized to combat stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. However, its impact on the microbiome remains unclear. This study observes the effects of preparation and participation in an advanced meditation program (Samyama) implemented with a vegan diet including 50% raw foods, on gut microbiome and metabolites profiles.

Methods

There were 288 subjects for this study. Stool samples were collected at 3-time points for meditators and household controls. Meditators prepared for 2 months for the Samyama, incorporating daily yoga and meditation practices with a vegan diet including 50% raw foods. Subjects were requested to submit stool samples for 3 time points – 2 months before Samyama (T1), right before Samyama (T2), and 3 months following Samyama (T3). 16 s rRNA sequencing was used to study participants' microbiome. Alpha and beta diversities along with short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) were assessed. Metabolomics were performed on a mass spectrometer coupled to a UHLPC system and analyzed by El-MAVEN software.

Results

Alpha diversity showed no significant differences between meditators and controls, while beta diversity showed significant changes (padj = 0.001) after Samyama in meditators’ microbiota composition. After the preparation phase, changes in branched short-chain fatty acids, higher levels of iso-valerate (padj = 0.02) and iso-buytrate (padj = 0.019) were observed at T2 in meditators. Other metabolites were also observed to have changed in meditators at timepoint T2.

Conclusion

This study examined the impact of an advanced meditation program combined with a vegan diet on the gut microbiome. There was an increase in beneficial bacteria even three months after the completion of the Samyama program. Further study is warranted to validate current observations and investigate the significance and mechanisms of action related to diet, meditation, and microbial composition and function, on psychological processes, including mood.

Trial registration

Registration number: NCT04366544; Registered on 29/04/2020.
Test development, optimization and validation of a WGS pipeline for genetic disorders
Authors: Yang Ziying , Yang Xu , Sun Yan , Wang Yaoshen , Song Lijie , Qiao Zhihong , Fang Zhonghai , Wang Zhonghua , Liu Lipei , Chen Yunmei , Yan Saiying , Guo Xueqin , Zhang Junqing , Fan Chunna , Liu Fengxia , Peng Zhiyu , Peng Huanhuan , Sun Jun , Chen Wei
Published: April 2023

Background

With advances in massive parallel sequencing (MPS) technology, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has gradually evolved into the first-tier diagnostic test for genetic disorders. However, deployment practice and pipeline testing for clinical WGS are lacking.

Methods

In this study, we introduced a whole WGS pipeline for genetic disorders, which included the entire process from obtaining a sample to clinical reporting. All samples that underwent WGS were constructed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-free library preparation protocols and sequenced on the MGISEQ-2000 platform. Bioinformatics pipelines were developed for the simultaneous detection of various types of variants, including single nucleotide variants (SNVs), insertions and deletions (indels), copy number variants (CNVs) and balanced rearrangements, mitochondrial (MT) variants, and other complex variants such as repeat expansion, pseudogenes and absence of heterozygosity (AOH). A semiautomatic pipeline was developed for the interpretation of potential SNVs and CNVs. Forty-five samples (including 14 positive commercially available samples, 23 laboratory-held positive cell lines and 8 clinical cases) with known variants were used to validate the whole pipeline.

Results

In this study, a whole WGS pipeline for genetic disorders was developed and optimized. Forty-five samples with known variants (6 with SNVs and Indels, 3 with MT variants, 5 with aneuploidies, 1 with triploidy, 23 with CNVs, 5 with balanced rearrangements, 2 with repeat expansions, 1 with AOHs, and 1 with exon 7–8 deletion of SMN1 gene) validated the effectiveness of our pipeline.

Conclusions

This study has been piloted in test development, optimization, and validation of the WGS pipeline for genetic disorders. A set of best practices were recommended using our pipeline, along with a dataset of positive samples for benchmarking.