bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Betanodavirus meningoencephalitis in an Atlantic blue marlin
Authors: Cook Kirstin A. , Hawke John P. , Groman David B. , Pretto Tobia , Toffan Anna , Hanson Larry A. , Nguyen D. , Ford Lorelei , Baumgartner Wes A.
Published: February 2024

Viral nervous necrosis (viral encephalopathy and retinopathy) is caused by piscine nodavirus ( Nodaviridae, Betanodavirus). Since 1986, this highly infectious virus has caused mass mortalities of up to 100% in farmed saltwater and freshwater fish around the world (with the exception of South America and Antarctica), affecting >60 species across 10 orders. The Atlantic blue marlin ( Makaira nigricans Lacépède, 1802) is a top-level predator found throughout the tropical waters of the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans. Despite their popularity as a sportfish, relatively little is known about the Atlantic blue marlin and other billfish. We describe here chronic betanodavirus infection in a juvenile Atlantic blue marlin, which is, to our knowledge, the first report of disease in M. nigricans.
Father–Child Contact During Prison and Its Association With Fathers’ Parenting Self-Efficacy
Authors: McLeod Branden A. , Charles Pajarita , Gottlieb Aaron , Muentner Luke
Published: February 2024

This study examines the association between three forms of father–child contact during incarceration and fathers’ reports of parental self-efficacy. The study’s sample derives from ( n = 1,720) fathers participating in the Multisite Family Study on Incarceration, Partnering, and Parenting (MFS-IP) study. Multivariate ordinary least squares regression models were conducted to examine the study’s hypotheses. Among the contact types, visits had a positive and significant effect on fathers’ views of their parental efficacy after controlling demographic, familial, and carceral characteristics. This study informs practice and policy, demonstrating that contact is essential to family-strengthening services and beneficial for incarcerated fathers and families. Importantly, efforts should be made to make it easier for fathers to have contact with their children.
A Mixed Methods Analysis of Standardized Documentation of Serious Illness Conversations Within an Electronic Health Record Module During Hospitalization
Authors: Serna Myrna Katalina , Yoon Catherine , Fiskio Julie , Lakin Joshua R. , Schnipper Jeffrey L. , Dalal Anuj K.
Published: February 2024

Background

Analysis of documented Serious Illness Conversations (SICs) in the inpatient setting can help clinicians align management to address patient and caregiver needs.

Methods

We conducted a mixed methods analysis of the first instance of standardized documentation of a SIC within a structured module among hospitalized general medicine patients from 2018 to 2019. Percentage of documentations that included a description of patient or family understanding of the patient’s medical condition and use of radio buttons to answer the “prognostic information shared,” “hopes,” and “worries” modules are reported. Using grounded theory approach, physicians analyzed free text entries to: “What is important to the patient/family?” and “Recommendations or next steps planned.”

Results

Out of 5142 patients, 59 patients had a documented SIC. Patient or family understanding of the medical condition(s) was reported in 56 (95%). For “prognostic information shared,” the most frequently selected radio buttons were: 49 (83%) incurable disease and 28 (48%) prognosis of weeks to months while those for “hopes” were: 52 (88%) be comfortable and 27 (46%) be at home and for “worries” were: 49 (83%) other physical suffering and 36 (61%) pain. Themes generated from entries to “What’s important to patient/family?” included being with loved ones; comfort; mentally and physically present; and reliable care while those for “Recommendations” were coordinating support services; symptom management; and support and communication.

Conclusions

SIC content indicated concern about pain and reliable care suggesting the complex, intensive nature of caring for seriously ill patients and the need to consider SICs earlier in the life course of patients.
Effects of Scarcity-Induced Demand on Crowdfunding Market
Authors: Zhou Zhijin , Liu Ye , Ma Chaoliang , Tan Yong
Published: February 2024

Fundraisers on reward-based crowdfunding platforms have increasingly sought to base their promotional strategy on the principle of scarcity. Although previous studies find that using a limited-edition inventory contributes to the success of campaigns, it remains unknown how fundraisers should leverage a scarcity strategy in the upfront design of reward options. Using a unique dynamic panel dataset from a leading reward-based crowdfunding platform, we develop a hierarchical Bayesian model to capture the dynamic arrival process of backers at the reward option level. We find that backers are driven by excess demand rather than limited supply. Putting quantity restrictions on a reward option can discourage demand if it fails to accumulate an adequate number of backers first. In addition, the scarcity strategy is more effective in high-priced reward options than in low-priced reward options. This study offers practical implications for the implementation of a scarcity strategy for both platform managers and fundraisers.
An Empirical Investigation of Manufacturers’ Operations Innovations in New Product Development Enabled by E-Commerce Platforms
Authors: Zhang Yiying , Peng Xiaosong (David) , Zhao Xiande , Lei Yang
Published: February 2024

E-commerce platforms are playing an increasingly important role in influencing manufacturers’ supply chain and product decisions. An emerging supply chain innovation, known as the platform-based consumer-to-manufacturer (PC2M) model, has been initiated by several large e-commerce platforms based on established digital links between consumers and manufacturers. These links enable consumer inputs into manufacturers’ operations, indirectly by capturing consumer preferences from platform-accumulated big data and directly by enabling consumer interaction with manufacturers through the e-commerce platform. Although manufacturers are increasingly integrating PC2M into new product development (NPD), there is little research on operations innovations in connection with the PC2M model and its impact on manufacturers’ new product success. To fill this research gap, we investigate the PC2M model of JD.com, a leading e-commerce platform in China that launched the PC2M model in 2018. We first identify two uses of PC2M by manufacturers to facilitate product development—platform-enabled big data analytics (PBA) and platform-enabled simulated product trials (PST)—and explore how PC2M enables operations innovations in NPD. Next, drawing on the knowledge-based view, we develop research hypotheses and empirically examine whether PC2M adoption improves new product performance using a large-scale, transactional dataset from JD.com. Through a series of carefully executed analyses, our study consistently finds that use of either PBA or PST in manufacturers’ NPD processes improves new product performance. We also explore how these effects vary across product types and markets with varying new product introduction rates. The findings offer important managerial insights for improving new product success in today's data-rich environment.
It’s Showtime: Live-Streaming E-commerce and Optimal Promotion Insertion Policy
Authors: Huang Wenpo , Jiang Wei , Luo Xinggang , Mei Xiaowei , Wei Lai
Published: February 2024

Live-streaming e-commerce has gained tremendous success as a new form of business model over the past few years. Nevertheless, there has been scarce research examining the effect of exogenous stimulus-driven factors (i.e., social cues such as promotion coupons) on the profit of the live-streaming platform. We model the continuous evolvement of the aggregate viewer involvement level with geometric Brownian motion and investigate the optimal timing and depth of promotion insertion policy. Our findings reveal that the optimal promotion insertion policy for the live-streaming room is a threshold policy that consists of a start-to-promote threshold and an involvement target when the trend of the aggregate involvement level is not large and the promotion cost is not high. Under some scenarios, the promotion planning process is constrained by various business rules, such as the promotion depth being limited by a discrete set (e.g., integral multiples of [Formula: see text]). Although this problem involves more complex constraints, we analytically show that a variation of the abovementioned threshold policy is the optimal strategy among all feasible policies, i.e., when the aggregate viewer involvement drops below a certain level ([Formula: see text]), the live-streaming host promotes with the depth of the least integral multiple of [Formula: see text] to raise the viewer involvement level above [Formula: see text]. Finally, to examine the effectiveness of our proposed policy, we compare it with prevalent industry practices. The result shows that the proposed promotion insertion policy outperforms prevailing ones significantly in generating profit for the live-streaming room.
Automated structural parameter estimation of semi-rigid complex joints in a benchmark laboratory steel grid by experimental modal analysis
Authors: Mehrkash Milad , Santini-Bell Erin
Published: February 2024

The mechanical properties of joints may impact a system’s static and dynamic behavior. Since connections are usually complex, modeling their geometric details could take time and effort. Thus, joints of structures are often overlooked in model creation and calibration. Therefore, reliable analytical modeling of in-service structures requires accurate and efficient parameter estimation of the connections in their simplified models. However, joints are physically small parts of a system, and parameter estimation techniques may not be sufficiently sensitive to the variations of connections’ mechanical properties. This paper examines the finite element model updating of a laboratory steel grid focusing on the structural parameter estimation of its complex connections using modal data. The mechanical properties of the joints are parametrized by added mass and reduced rigidity. Therefore, several modified models with different combinations of heavier semi-rigid joints are developed. Each model is updated using two modal-based error functions, and the most representative updated model is selected. The results demonstrate how the grid modal outputs are influenced by updating the mass and stiffness of its connections. Moreover, mass and stiffness interactions of the grid joints in the parameter estimation procedure are illustrated. The updated models can efficiently simulate the structural behavior of the grid with increased confidence and reliability.
Factors associated with false lumen changes in patients with superior mesenteric artery dissection
Authors: Mei Junhao , Yuan Yuan , Yan Hui , Zhao Xi , Xue Tongqing , Su Haobo , Jia Zhongzhi
Published: February 2024

Background:

False lumen changes (FLCs) are the main reference for the prognosis judgment and treatment plan selection for type IIa superior mesenteric artery dissection (SMAD).

Methods:

For this retrospective study, 55 patients with symptomatic type IIa SMAD were included. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was used to explore the hemodynamic basis of FLCs. Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify clinical, morphological and hemodynamic factors associated with FLCs.

Results:

The FLCs of patients with successful conservative treatment ( n = 29) are significantly higher than those with failed conservative treatment ( n = 26) (58.5 ± 21.1% vs 10.9 ± 17.4%, p < 0.0001). Positive correlations were seen between FLCs and the morphological parameters false lumen length (FLL)/dissection entrance length (DEL) and FLL. In terms of hemodynamic parameters, negative correlations were seen between FLCs and time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), vorticity, and high areas of TAWSS and vorticity, whereas positive correlations were seen between FLCs and oscillatory shear index (OSI), relative residence time (RRT), and high areas of OSI and RRT. Multiple linear regression analysis identified symptom duration (odds ratio [OR], 0.93; 95% CI, 0.91–0.96; p < 0.0001), FLL/DEL (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.01–1.67; p = 0.044), and high RRT area (OR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.48–2.78; p < 0.0001) as predictors of FLCs.

Conclusion:

The clinical predictor symptom duration, morphological factor FLL/DEL, and the hemodynamic factor high RRT area can serve as predictors of FLCs in patients with symptomatic type IIa SMAD.
Understanding Food Assistance Through Care: Theoretical Insights
Authors: Augusto Fábio Rafael
Published: February 2024

Two theoretical perspectives have been extensively mobilized to understand the social role of food assistance initiatives, namely ‘food security’ and ‘political economy’. The main objective of this article is to develop an alternative theoretical approach that allows for more comprehensive analyses. Building on Thomas’s (1993) conceptual work on care, it is expected to encourage the development of studies that incorporate less-obvious elements that (also) characterize food assistance organizations, such as the various interactions and practices that are not directly related to food donations.
Experiences and expectations of parents when young people with congenital heart disease transfer from pediatric to adult care: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Lykkeberg Birgitte , Noergaard Marianne Wetendorff , Bjerrum Merete
Published: February 2024

Parents encounter challenges when their child with congenital heart disease is transferred from pediatric to adult care. Until recently these parents’ experiences and expectations of their child’s transfer have received less attention. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize qualitative evidence on parental experiences and expectations about their child’s transfer from pediatric to adult care using a meta-aggregation approach. Six studies were included with 39 findings being aggregated into seven categories. Three syntheses were formed: Information is a prerequisite for supporting young people’s transfer. The transition process should be well-prepared, individualized, and based on young people’s maturity. Changing parental roles causes ambivalent feelings requiring support in the transfer process. Parents regard transfer from pediatric to adult care as a natural developmental step. However, some parents are anxious and worried while others found the transfer as feasible as other transitions in their child’s life. Involving parents in the transition process enables them to facilitate their child’s transfer. Parents worry their child is too young to take responsibility for their health. Parental roles from being a full caregiver to becoming a supportive person cause ambivalent feelings. These findings align with research on parents’ experiences of young people with long-term conditions.
Pathways to Success, or Unfulfilled Dreams? An Examination of Pathway-Based Disparities in Graduation Rates
Authors: Pizarro Milian Roger , Reynolds Dylan , Jacob Naleni , Abdulkarim Firrisaa , Parekh Gillian , Brown Robert , Walters David
Published: February 2024

Research on pathway-based disparities in postsecondary education (PSE) has mounted in recent decades, indicating that nonlinear pathways may hamper students’ academic success. In Ontario, Canada, research on this topic remains largely inconclusive given the historically low quality of available data sources, with researchers commonly relying on small and unrepresentative samples, short observation windows, and a restricted range of academic and demographic controls. Through this study we reexamine pathway-based disparities in graduation rates using a custom administrative linkage that constitutes the best available evidence to study this topic in the province of Ontario. Our statistical analyses confirm the existence of a statistically significant relationship between the PSE pathways traveled by students and their odds of graduation, particularly among community college-to-university transfers. We conclude by considering the implications of these findings for both policymakers and future research in this space in Ontario and comparable jurisdictions.
Automatic extraction of flat sketch design element from clothing images using artificial intelligence
Authors: Lee Yoojeong , Kang Yeonghoon , Kim Sungmin
Published: February 2024

This study aims to develop a process that automatically extracts various flat sketch elements in vector format from clothing images. The approach of this study is to combine state-of-the-art image processing algorithms with the new algorithm devised in this study. First, a convolutional neural network based edge detection model trained with specially prepared fashion image data set was used to convert clothing images into edge maps. Then, a recurrent neural network based vectorization model and a rule-based image correction algorithm were used to convert the edge map into a vector image. Finally, a graph search algorithm was used to extract closed shapes from the vector image. As a result, the accuracy of edge extraction model has been improved by training with the special fashion image data set. The image correction rule was able to refine the vector images generated by the vectorization model. The graph algorithm was able to extract closed shapes from the vector image. This study is the first study to extract vector style flat sketch elements from clothing images using artificial intelligence and conventional computational geometry.
The Surprising Effect of Priming on SNOT-22 Results
Authors: Mohammad Ibtisam , Stack Taylor , Norris Meghan , Kim Sulgi , Lamb Meredith , Thorp Brian D. , Klatt-Cromwell Christine , Ebert Charles S. , Kimple Adam J. , Senior Brent A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Priming is a psychological phenomenon where subconscious cues in the environment impact our behavioral responses in certain situations. Well studied in the worlds of business, marketing, and even politics, it is unclear how the priming phenomenon impacts patient perception of their own disease state nor how they report that perception using tools like the Sinonasal Outcomes Test (SNOT-22), used to measure that perception in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Objective

To determine the impact of positive or negative priming on self-reported patient perception of their chronic rhinosinusitis disease using the SNOT-22 disease-specific quality of life instrument.

Methods

Single-blind, randomized, prospective cohort pilot study of 206 consecutive adult patients with a clinical diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis presenting to a university rhinology clinic. Patients were randomized to receive “positive priming” (103) or “negative priming” (103) by reading a passage about the positive or negative aspects of chronic sinusitis and its treatment respectively. Patients were then asked to fill out the SNOT-22 and results between the two groups were compared.

Results

The negative priming group had a higher median SNOT-22 score of 49 [IQR = 39] compared to the positive priming groups’ score of 22 [IQR = 27], p < 0.0001), a difference of nearly three times the minimal clinical impactful difference (MCID). This effect was consistent regardless of age or sex of the patient. Subgroup analysis revealed a greater impact when priming was performed by the senior male attending regardless of patient age or sex (p < 0.001), while priming performed by the younger female research fellow had greater impact on older patients (>59 years, p = 0.001) and female patients (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Priming impacts how patient's perceive their chronic rhinosinusitis as determined by the SNOT-22. It is imperative that the rhinologist understand this when using this instrument in research applications and in clinical decision-making for patients.
Let’s Shape Learning Into Lasting Memories
Authors: Vanneste Sven
Published: February 2024

Recent experiments in rats and humans have indicated that the effects of non-invasive electrical stimulation are primarily due to transcutaneous stimulation of peripheral nerves, specifically the greater occipital nerve. This stimulation pathway activates communication gateways from the periphery to the brain, impacting memory consolidation. In this invited commentary, I delve into and offer additional insights concerning the enhancement of episodic memory through transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the greater occipital nerve, building upon the findings published by my laboratory in both Science Advances and Elife. Our research on non-invasive transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the greater occipital nerve (NITESGON) has shown to enhance episodic memory consolidation and promote communication between the locus coeruleus (LC) pathway and the hippocampus based on resting connectivity functional MRI. The LC, primarily responsible for releasing noradrenaline and dopamine, plays a crucial role in post-encoding memory stabilization. This suggests that NITESGON can improve memory but does not affect immediate learning. The concept of behavioural tagging, where weak memories can be stabilized through strong or novel events, and how NITESGON activates a memory consolidation through this mechanism are discussed. The role of NITESGON in enhancing memory stabilization is highlighted, providing a non-pharmaceutical solution with minimal side effects. The potential application of NITESGON in neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, is also discussed, emphasizing its promising therapeutic prospects.
Considering Anatomic Features When Retrieving a Separated Needle: A Case Report Using CT Navigation Within the Infratemporal Fossa
Authors: Meylikh Radislav , Gersten Joshua , Yusupov Yuriy
Published: February 2024

Needle separation is an unfortunate complication encountered during local anesthetic administration in dentistry. Attributing factors have been thought to be related to needle gauge, pre-injection needle bending, needle deflection, redirection, and depth of penetration. Various methods have been described for FB identification and retrieval. We present a case of a separated hypodermic needle in the infratemporal fossa after a posterior superior alveolar (PSA) nerve block. We describe the use of computed tomography (CT) navigation system with an expanded armamentarium of guided instrumentation. Utilization of our method can efficiently aid in the localization and removal of foreign bodies in the maxillofacial region.
Comprehensive genotyping analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms responsible for beef marbling in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Sasazaki Shinji , Kondo Hina , Moriishi Yurika , Kawaguchi Fuki , Oyama Kenji , Mannen Hideyuki
Published: February 2024

Background

Beef marbling is considered a desirable trait in the meat industry. Therefore, understanding the genetic factors that cause marbling is important. Previously, we performed a genome-wide association study to examine genetic factors associated with beef marbling in Japanese Black cattle and identified a candidate region between 10–30 Mbp on chromosome 7. We verified the effect of the SNPs in this region on beef marbling using linkage disequilibrium block analysis. We narrowed down the candidate region to a range of 15.8–16.1 Mbp. In this study, we comprehensively detected all of the SNPs in this region and verified their effects on beef marbling.

Results

Genome resequencing using four animals exhibiting high beef marbling standard (BMS) and four with low BMS revealed a total of 1,846 polymorphisms within the candidate region. Based on the annotation, we selected 13 SNPs exhibiting a moderate impact, as no high-impact SNPs were detected. All of the SNPs represented missense polymorphisms and were located in the following seven genes: RDH8, ANGPTL6, DNMT1, MRPL4, ICAM1, ICAM3, and ICAM5. Finally, we determined the effects of these SNPs on the BMS of a Japanese Black cattle population (n = 529). Analysis of variance revealed that the five SNPs were located in genes encoding the intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAM1, ICAM3, and ICAM5), and showed a highly significant association compared with the remainder (p < 0.01). The lowest p-value was observed for ICAM3_c.739G > A (p = 1.18E-04). Previous studies have suggested that intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAM) may be an upstream factor that regulates adipocyte differentiation. Therefore, considering the polymorphism and putative gene function, we suggest that ICAM1 is potentially responsible for beef marbling. c.470C > G and/or c.994G > A on ICAM1 may be responsible for this quantitative trait locus.

Conclusions

Promising SNP candidates responsible for beef marbling were identified using extensive polymorphism verification in a previously reported QTL region. We aim to elucidate the mechanism of beef marbling in future studies by investigating how these polymorphisms alter protein structure and function.
Genomic investigation of duplication, functional conservation, and divergence in the LRR-RLK Family of Saccharum
Authors: Ding Hongyan , Feng Xiaoxi , Yuan Yuan , Wang Baiyu , Wang Yuhao , Zhang Jisen
Published: February 2024

Background

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) holds exceptional global significance as a vital crop, serving as a primary source of sucrose, bioenergy, and various by-products. The optimization of sugarcane breeding by fine-tuning essential traits has become crucial for enhancing crop productivity and stress resilience. Leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinases (LRR-RLK) genes present promising targets for this purpose, as they are involved in various aspects of plant development and defense processes.

Results

Here, we present a detailed overview of phylogeny and expression of 288 (495 alleles) and 312 (1365 alleles) LRR-RLK genes from two founding Saccharum species, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis categorized these genes into 15 subfamilies, revealing considerable expansion or reduction in certain LRR-type subfamilies. Compared to other plant species, both Saccharum species had more significant LRR-RLK genes. Examination of cis-acting elements demonstrated that SsLRR-RLK and SoLRR-RLK genes exhibited no significant difference in the types of elements included, primarily involved in four physiological processes. This suggests a broad conservation of LRR-RLK gene function during Saccharum evolution. Synteny analysis indicated that all LRR-RLK genes in both Saccharum species underwent gene duplication, primarily through whole-genome duplication (WGD) or segmental duplication. We identified 28 LRR-RLK genes exhibiting novel expression patterns in response to different tissues, gradient development leaves, and circadian rhythm in the two Saccharum species. Additionally, SoLRR-RLK104, SoLRR-RLK7, SoLRR-RLK113, and SsLRR-RLK134 were identified as candidate genes for sugarcane disease defense response regulators through transcriptome data analysis of two disease stresses. This suggests LRR-RLK genes of sugarcane involvement in regulating various biological processes, including leaf development, plant morphology, photosynthesis, maintenance of circadian rhythm stability, and defense against sugarcane diseases.

Conclusions

This investigation into gene duplication, functional conservation, and divergence of LRR-RLK genes in two founding Saccharum species lays the groundwork for a comprehensive genomic analysis of the entire LRR-RLK gene family in Saccharum. The results reveal LRR-RLK gene played a critical role in Saccharum adaptation to diverse conditions, offering valuable insights for targeted breeding and precise phenotypic adjustments.
Immune responses to P falciparum antibodies in symptomatic malaria patients with variant hemoglobin genotypes in Ghana
Authors: Asare Kwame Kumi , Agrah Benjamin , Ofori-Acquah Fiifi Solomon , Kudzi William , Aryee Nii Ayite , Amoah Linda Eva
Published: February 2024

Background

Haemoglobin (Hb) variants such as sickle cell trait (SCT/HbAS) play a role in protecting against clinical malaria, but little is known about the development of immune responses against malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum surface protein 230 (Pfs230) and Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte binding antigen 175 region-3 (PfEBA175-3R)) and vector (on the An. gambiae Salivary Gland Protein-6 peptide 1 (gSG6-P1)) antigens in individuals with variants Hb genotypes. This study assessed antibody (IgG) responses against malaria parasite, Pfs230 and PfEBA175-3R and vector, gSG6-P1 in febrile individuals with variant Hb genotypes.

Methods

The study was conducted on symptomatic malaria patients attending various healthcare facilities throughout Ghana. Microscopy and ELISA were used to determine the natural IgG antibody levels of gSG6-P1, PfEBA175-3R & Pfs230, and Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing was used for Hb variants determination.

Results

Of the 600 symptomatic malaria patients, 50.0% of the participants had malaria parasites by microscopy. The majority 79.0% (398/504) of the participants had Hb AA, followed by HbAS variant at 11.3% (57/504) and HbAC 6.7% (34/504). There were significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced levels of gSG6-P1 IgG in individuals with both HbAC and HbAS genotypes compared to the HbAA genotype. The levels of gSG6-P1 IgG were significantly (p < 0.0001) higher in HbAS compared to HbAC. Similarly, Pfs230 IgG and PfEBA-175-3R IgG distributions observed across the haemoglobin variants were significantly higher in HbAC relative to HbAS.

Conclusion

The study has shown that haemoglobin variants significantly influence the pattern of anti-gSG6-P1, Pfs230, and PfEBA-175 IgG levels in malaria-endemic population. The HbAS genotype is suggested to confer protection against malaria infection. Reduced exposure to infection ultimately reduces the induction of antibodies targeted against P. falciparum antigens.
Pine wilt disease: what do we know from proteomics?
Authors: Cardoso Joana M. S. , Manadas Bruno , Abrantes Isabel , Robertson Lee , Arcos Susana C. , Troya Maria Teresa , Navas Alfonso , Fonseca Luís
Published: February 2024

Pine wilt disease (PWD) is a devastating forest disease caused by the pinewood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, a migratory endoparasite that infects several coniferous species. During the last 20 years, advances have been made for understanding the molecular bases of PWN-host trees interactions. Major advances emerged from transcriptomic and genomic studies, which revealed some unique features related to PWN pathogenicity and constituted fundamental data that allowed the development of postgenomic studies. Here we review the proteomic approaches that were applied to study PWD and integrated the current knowledge on the molecular basis of the PWN pathogenicity. Proteomics has been useful for understanding cellular activities and protein functions involved in PWN-host trees interactions, shedding light into the mechanisms associated with PWN pathogenicity and being promising tools to better clarify host trees PWN resistance/susceptibility.
The value of pupillary diameter in evaluating pain perception after awakening in patients undergoing general anesthesia during orthopedic surgery
Authors: Huang Huang , Qiu Yinuo , Gu Guoxin , Mei Xiangyang , Pang Liwei , Zhang Chuangxin , Ran Mingzi , Li Mengmeng
Published: February 2024

Background

The pupillary response to tetanic electrical stimulation reflects the balance between nociceptive stimulation and analgesia. Although pupillary pain index (PPI) was utilized to predict postoperative pain, it depended on tetanic stimulation and was complex. We aim to describe the potential relationship between PD in the presence of surgical stimulation and pain levels after awakening.

Methods

According to the Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) score after extubation, the patients were divided into painless group (VRS = 0) and pain group (VRS ≥ 1). Pupillary diameter (PD) and pupillary light reflex velocity (PLRV) were compared between two groups when patients entered the operating room (T1), before incision (T2), 10 s after incision (T3), 30 s after incision (T4), 1 h after incision (T5), at the end of surgery (T6), shortly after extubation (T7), and when patients expressed pain clearly (T8). The magnitude of PD change (ΔPD) compared to the baseline value after anesthesia induction (T2) was calculated. The correlations between pupillary parameters and pain after awakening were calculated.

Results

Patients with VRS ≥ 1 had greater PD than painless patients at T3-7 (P = 0.04, 0.04, 0.003, <0.001, <0.001), and it was positively correlated with VRS score after awakening at T4-7 (r = 0.188, 0.217, 0.684, 0.721). The ability of T6ΔPD to predict VRS ≥ 1 was strong [threshold: 20.53%, area under the curve (AUC): 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.89–0.97 ].

Conclusion

Our study indicates that PD is a useful index to direct the individualized analgesics used during operation, to better avoid the occurrence of pain during the postoperative emergence period.

Trial registration

This study was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration number: ChiCTR2000040908, registration date: 15/12/2020).
Safety and effectiveness of opioid-free anaesthesia in thoracoscopic surgery: a preliminary retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Shanshan , Zhang Jianmin , Zhang Ran
Published: February 2024

Background

This study aimed to observe the effect of opioid-free anaesthesia (OFA) on intraoperative haemodynamic,postoperative analgesia and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in thoracoscopic surgery in order to provide more evidence for evaluating the safety and effectiveness of OFA technology.

Methods

This was a single-centre retrospective observational study.Adult patients who underwent thoracoscopic surgery with the preoperative thoracic paravertebral block between January 2017 and June 2020 were included.A cohort of 101 thoracoscopic surgery patients who received the OFA technique were matched with 101 thoracoscopic surgery patients who received standard opioid-containing anaesthesia(SOA). Heart rate (HR) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) were measured before anaesthesia induction, immediately after endotracheal intubation, at the beginning of surgery, and 10, 20, and 30 min after surgery began.The total amount of intraoperative infusion, frequency of vasoactive drugs use, morphine ingested via the patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) 24 h post-surgery,visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at rest and activity on the first day post-surgery, and frequency of nausea and vomiting within 24 h post-surgery were analysed.

Results

There was no significant difference in intraoperative HR between the two groups (F = 0.889, P = 0.347); however, there was significant difference in intraoperative MAP (F = 16.709, P < 0.001), which was lower in SOA patients than in OFA patients. The frequency of vasoactive drug use and amount of infusion was less in OFA patients (P = 0.001). The consumption of morphine used by the PCIA 24 h post-surgery was significantly lower in OFA patients (OFA, 1.8 [0, 4.8] mg vs. SOA, 3.6 [0.6, 23] mg, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in VAS scores at rest (P = 0.745) or during activity (P = 0.792) on the first day post-surgery. There was also no statistically significant difference in nausea and vomiting within 24 h post-surgery (P = 0.651).

Conclusions

This case-control study demonstrated that compared with SOA, OFA can effectively maintain the stability of intraoperative MAP, reduce the incidence of hypotension. Although OFA reduced morphine consumption via the PCIA pump 24 h post-surgery, postoperative pain scores and nausea and vomiting within 24 h post-surgery were similar between the groups.But this study was only a preliminary study and needed to confirm in a larger, more robust trial.
Cardiac troponins and coronary artery calcium score: a systematic review
Authors: Shahraki Naghmeh , Samadi Sara , Arasteh Omid , Dashtbayaz Reza Javidi , Zarei Batool , Mohammadpour Amir Hooshang , Jomehzadeh Vahid
Published: February 2024

An early diagnosis of atherosclerosis, particularly in subclinical status, can play a remarkable role in reducing mortality and morbidity. Because of coronary artery calcification (CAC) nature in radiation exposure, finding biomarkers associated with CAC could be useful in identifying individuals at high risk of CAC score. In this review, we focused on the association of cardiac troponins (hs-cTns) and CAC to achieve insight into the pathophysiology of CAC. In October 2022, we systematically searched Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Embase databases to find human observational studies which have investigated the association of CAC with cardiac troponins. To appraise the included articles, we used the Newcastle Ottawa scale (NOS). Out of 520 records, 10 eligible studies were included. Based on findings from longitudinal studies and cross-sectional analyses, troponin T and I were correlated with occurrence of CAC and its severity. Two of the most important risk factors that affect the correlation between hs-cTns serum levels and CAC were age and gender. The elevation of cardiac troponins may affect the progression of CAC and future cardiovascular diseases. Verifying the association between cardiac troponins and CAC may lead to identify individuals exposed to enhanced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) complications and could establish innovative targets for pharmacological therapy.
Diagnostic accuracy of Lipoarabinomannan detection by lateral flow assay in pleural tuberculosis
Authors: Mohapatra Atish , Gaikwad Ujjwala , Ganga Ranganath T. , Sharma Pratibha
Published: February 2024

Background

Lipoarabinomannan (LAM) antigen serves as an attractive biomarker to diagnose Tuberculosis (TB). Given the limitations of current diagnostic modalities for Pleural TB, current study evaluated LAM’s potential to serve as a point-of-care test to diagnose pleural TB.

Methods

A cross sectional, diagnostic accuracy study was conducted during February to November 2021 in a tertiary care hospital in India. LAM antigen detection was performed on pleural fluid as well as early morning urine specimen of suspected pleural TB patients by “Alere/ Abott Determine TB LAM” lateral flow assay (LAM-LFA). The results were compared to microbiological reference standards/MRS (Mycobacterial culture or NAAT) and Composite reference standards/CRS (MRS plus Clinico-radiological diagnosis).

Results

A total of 170 subjects were included in the analysis, including 26 with Definite TB, 22 with Probable TB, and 122 with No TB. Compared to MRS and CRS, the sensitivity (61.54% & 45.83%) and positive predictive value (PPV) (57.14 & 78.57%) of Pleural LAM-LFA testing were found to be suboptimal, whereas the specificity (91.67% & 95.08%) and negative predictive value (NPV) (92.96% & 81.69%) of the assay were found to be good. Urinary LAM-LFA performed even worse than pleural LAM-LFA, except for its higher specificity against MRS and CRS (97.2% and 98.3%, respectively). Specificity and PPV of pleural LAM detection increased to 100% when analysed in a subgroup of patients with elevated ADA levels (receiver operating curve analysis-derived cut off value > 40 IU/ml).

Conclusion

Detection of LAM antigen by LFA directly from pleural fluid was found to be a useful test to predict absence of the disease if the test is negative rather than using as a POCT for diagnosis.
Bioactive adrenomedullin and interleukin-6 in COVID-19: potential biomarkers of acute kidney injury and critical illness
Authors: Leininger Simon B. , Staudner Stephan T. , Vogel Manuel J. , Mustroph Julian , Hubauer Ute , Wallner Stefan , Lehn Petra , Burkhardt Ralph , Meindl Christine , Hanses Frank , Zimmermann Markus , Maier Lars S. , Hupf Julian , Jungbauer Carsten G.
Published: February 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate whether bioactive adrenomedullin (bio-ADM) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are related to acute kidney injury (AKI) and severe illness in COVID-19 patients.

Methods

153 patients with COVID-19 admitted to the emergency department (ED) were included. Blood samples were collected from each patient at admission. Bio-ADM and IL-6, as well as DPP3 and routinely measured markers were evaluated regarding the endpoints AKI (22/128 hospitalized patients) and a composite endpoint of admission to intensive care unit and/or in-hospital death (n = 26/153 patients).

Results

Bio-ADM and IL-6 were significantly elevated in COVID-19 patients with AKI compared to COVID-19 patients without AKI (each p < 0.001). According to ROC analyses IL-6 and bio-ADM had the largest AUC (0.84 and 0.81) regarding the detection of AKI.

Furthermore, bio-ADM and IL-6 were significantly elevated in COVID-19 patients reaching the composite endpoint (each p < 0.001). Regarding the composite endpoint ROC analysis showed an AUC of 0.89 for IL-6 and 0.83 for bio-ADM in COVID-19 patients.

In the multivariable logistic model bio-ADM and IL-6 presented as independent significant predictors regarding both endpoints AKI and the composite endpoint in COVID-19 patients (as well as creatinine regarding the composite endpoint; each p < 0.05), opposite to leukocytes, C-reactive protein (CRP) and dipeptidyl peptidase 3 (DPP3; each p = n.s.).

Conclusion

Elevated levels of bio-ADM and IL-6 are associated with AKI and critical illness in patients with COVID-19. Therefore, both biomarkers may be potential tools in risk stratification in COVID-19 patients at presentation in the ED.
Key influences on university students’ physical activity: a systematic review using the Theoretical Domains Framework and the COM-B model of human behaviour
Authors: Brown Catherine E. B. , Richardson Karyn , Halil-Pizzirani Bengianni , Atkins Lou , Yücel Murat , Segrave Rebecca A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Physical activity is important for all aspects of health, yet most university students are not active enough to reap these benefits. Understanding the factors that influence physical activity in the context of behaviour change theory is valuable to inform the development of effective evidence-based interventions to increase university students’ physical activity. The current systematic review a) identified barriers and facilitators to university students’ physical activity, b) mapped these factors to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and COM-B model, and c) ranked the relative importance of TDF domains.

Methods

Data synthesis included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research published between 01.01.2010—15.03.2023. Four databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus) were searched to identify publications on the barriers/facilitators to university students' physical activity. Data regarding study design and key findings (i.e., participant quotes, qualitative theme descriptions, and survey results) were extracted. Framework analysis was used to code barriers/facilitators to the TDF and COM-B model. Within each TDF domain, thematic analysis was used to group similar barriers/facilitators into descriptive theme labels. TDF domains were ranked by relative importance based on frequency, elaboration, and evidence of mixed barriers/facilitators.

Results

Thirty-nine studies involving 17,771 participants met the inclusion criteria. Fifty-six barriers and facilitators mapping to twelve TDF domains and the COM-B model were identified as relevant to students’ physical activity. Three TDF domains, environmental context and resources (e.g., time constraints), social influences (e.g., exercising with others), and goals (e.g., prioritisation of physical activity) were judged to be of greatest relative importance (identified in > 50% of studies). TDF domains of lower relative importance were intentions, reinforcement, emotion, beliefs about consequences, knowledge, physical skills, beliefs about capabilities, cognitive and interpersonal skills, social/professional role and identity, and behavioural regulation. No barriers/facilitators relating to the TDF domains of memory, attention and decision process, or optimism were identified.

Conclusions

The current findings provide a foundation to enhance the development of theory and evidence informed interventions to support university students’ engagement in physical activity. Interventions that include a focus on the TDF domains 'environmental context and resources,' 'social influences,' and 'goals,' hold particular promise for promoting active student lifestyles.

Trial registration

Prospero ID—CRD42021242170.
Evaluation of physical fitness and health of young children aged between 3 and 6 based on cluster and factor analyses
Authors: Zhao Rui , Li Xue , Wang Junwei , Zhang Lanchuan , Gao Zhanle
Published: February 2024

Background

As life improves and sedentary time increases, young children's physical fitness gradually declines.

Methods

Multi-stage stratified whole cluster sampling was utilized to sample 5584 preschoolers. Young infants' morphology, function, and quality were revealed using cluster and factor analysis.

Results

The cluster analysis separated 3–6-year-olds into two genders: 1,551 men in group A "high physical fitness" 1,499 men in group B "low physical fitness"; 1,213 women in group A and 1,321 women in group B. Young children's fitness was measured by standing long jump(1.00), weight(1.00), and height(1.00). A cluster analysis of 3–4-year-olds classified them into three groups: 272 “muscular strength,” 75 “average physical fitness,” and 250 “low agility.” Young children's health depends on weight (1.00), height (0.57), and chest circumference (0.54). A cluster analysis of the 4–5-year-olds classified them into two groups: 1070 “balance” and 806 “muscular strength.” Young children’s health depends on weight (1.00), height (0.74), and chest circumference (0.71). A cluster analysis of the 5–6-year-olds divided them into three groups: 1762 “high physical fitness,” 384 “obese,” and 105 “low physical fitness.” Young children’s physical health depends on BMI (1.00), weight (1.00), and chest circumference (1.00). Factor analysis demonstrated that muscle strength, body shape, cardiovascular variables, and physical fitness composite components affected young children's health.

Conclusion

Women should focus on motor function and strength, while men on flexibility. Male group B “low physical fitness” should focus on strength, motor function, and balance, whereas male group A “high physical fitness” should focus on flexibility. Then, female group A “high physical fitness” should emphasize variety.2) For 3–4-year-olds, group A “muscular strength” should focus on flexibility, and group C “low agility” on motor function. 3) For 4–5-year-olds, group A “balanced” should focus on strength and motor function; 4) For 5–6-year-olds, group B “obese” should emphasize weight loss, and group C “low fitness” should emphasize strength, motor function, and flexibility; 5) Young children’s physical fitness depends on muscle strength, body shape, cardiovascular factors, and physical fitness composite.