bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helpful Neighbors: Leveraging Neighbors in Geographic Feature Pronunciation
Authors: Jones Llion , Sproat Richard , Ishikawa Haruko , Gutkin Alexander
Published: January 2023

If one sees the place name Houston Mercer Dog Run in New York, how does one know how to pronounce it? Assuming one knows that Houston in New York is pronounced /ˈhaʊstən/ and not like the Texas city (/ˈhjuːstən/), then one can probably guess that /ˈhaʊstən/ is also used in the name of the dog park. We present a novel architecture that learns to use the pronunciations of neighboring names in order to guess the pronunciation of a given target feature. Applied to Japanese place names, we demonstrate the utility of the model to finding and proposing corrections for errors in Google Maps.

To demonstrate the utility of this approach to structurally similar problems, we also report on an application to a totally different task: Cognate reflex prediction in comparative historical linguistics. A version of the code has been open-sourced.1
Improving Low-Resource Cross-lingual Parsing with Expected Statistic Regularization
Authors: Effland Thomas , Collins Michael
Published: January 2023

We present Expected Statistic Regulariza tion (ESR), a novel regularization technique that utilizes low-order multi-task structural statistics to shape model distributions for semi- supervised learning on low-resource datasets. We study ESR in the context of cross-lingual transfer for syntactic analysis (POS tagging and labeled dependency parsing) and present several classes of low-order statistic functions that bear on model behavior. Experimentally, we evaluate the proposed statistics with ESR for unsupervised transfer on 5 diverse target languages and show that all statistics, when estimated accurately, yield improvements to both POS and LAS, with the best statistic improving POS by +7.0 and LAS by +8.5 on average. We also present semi-supervised transfer and learning curve experiments that show ESR provides significant gains over strong cross-lingual-transfer-plus-fine-tuning baselines for modest amounts of label data. These results indicate that ESR is a promising and complementary approach to model-transfer approaches for cross-lingual parsing.1
“I Felt Like I Had Something I Could Do About It”: Pediatric Clinician Experiences With a Food Insecurity-Focused Produce Prescription Program
Authors: Johnson Sheryl , Fischer Laura , Gupta Simran , Lazerov Jessica , Singletary Judith , Essel Kofi
Published: January 2023

Efforts to address food insecurity (FI) in pediatric clinics have increased over the last decade, particularly after a groundbreaking 2015 American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement supporting universal routine screening and intervening. Produce prescription programs are a novel strategy addressing FI. Limited data exist on effectiveness and feasibility in pediatric clinical settings. This study explored clinician experiences after enrolling patients who completed a produce prescription program in an urban primary-care clinic in Washington, DC. One year after program completion, the experiences of 11 clinicians were explored through qualitative interviews and coded using thematic content analysis. Identified themes explored changes in clinician knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Clinicians expressed that the program offered a tangible resource to address FI, building trust and strengthening their sense of self-efficacy in addressing families’ concerns. Incorporation of a produce prescription intervention to address FI was feasible and well accepted by pediatric primary-care clinicians.
Preparing on-site school lunches improves adolescents’ eating habits: A one-year follow-up
Authors: Akihiro Maeta , Mizue Oku , Kyoko Takahashi
Published: January 2023

Objective:

We investigated how students’ interest in healthy eating changed after the introduction of on-site school lunch, prepared on campus, at a Japanese junior high school.

Design:

One-year follow-up study.

Setting:

Participants were 166 students in their second year of study at a public junior high school in Japan which introduced an on-site school lunch programme instead of students bringing lunch from home.

Method:

Students’ interest in healthy eating habits was evaluated using the Japanese Questionnaire of Consciousness in Dietary Life for Adolescents Form (JQCDL–AF).

Results:

Data from 139 students who completed all three surveys were analysed. Total scores after 1 month increased significantly compared to baseline. This increase was sustained among boys 1 year later. The introduction of on-site school lunches is an effective strategy not only for providing healthy meals but also for increasing interest in the development of healthy eating habits.

Conclusion:

Increasing opportunities to get involved in meal preparation through the introduction of on-site school lunches may be an effective means of facilitating healthy eating among students.
Book review: Shashi Bhushan Kumar, Indian Prime Ministers: Nehru to Modi
Authors: Singh Mahendra Prasad
Published: January 2023

Shashi Bhushan Kumar, Indian Prime Ministers: Nehru to Modi. Delhi: Ankur Book Distributors, 2022, ₹1,495.
Gnats, Camels, and Matthew’s Use of Luke
Authors: Garrow Alan
Published: January 2023

A striking feature of the current state of Synoptic Problem studies is the almost universal acceptance of Markan Priority. If Mark was indeed used by both Matthew and Luke, this reduces the number of simple solutions to the Synoptic Problem to just two: Luke used Matthew or Matthew used Luke. Studies promoting the latter option, the Matthean Posteriority Hypothesis (MPH), have recently begun to attract wider critical attention. This article examines the three critical responses published sivnce 2017 and asks which of the problems so far identified presents the most serious problem for the MPH.
Association between university student junk food consumption and mental health
Authors: ElBarazi Amani , Tikamdas Rajiv
Published: January 2023

Background: On a global scale, the mental health consequences of eating habits among the general population are becoming a concern. Particular attention should be directed to the youthful population. Aims: Determine the relationship between university students’ consumption of junk food and their levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Method: University students were asked to complete: a demographic questionnaire, questions on junk food consumption, and depression anxiety stress scores (DASS-21). Body mass index measurements were taken. Logistic regressions were utilized to construct odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals to identify the association between university students’ consumption of junk food and their levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Results: There were ( N = 509), 66% females and 34% males, mean age was ( M = 18.1 ± .5) years participated in this study. Daily consumption of junk food was significantly linked to stress (odds ratio [OR], 4.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.5−8.3), anxiety (OR, 11.1; 95% CI, 6.2−20.1), and depression (OR, 7.9; 95% CI, 4.5−13.9). Conclusions: This is the first thorough study conducted in Egypt to examine the relationship between stress, anxiety, and depression, and junk food consumption among undergraduates at a private Egyptian university. Many college students struggle emotionally, and those who are emotionally troubled are more likely to participate in eating unhealthy food. Our research will be used to inform regional policies on adolescent nutrition and to create preventative strategies.
The impacts of the low-carbon city policy on urban air pollution in China
Authors: Gu Jiafeng
Published: January 2023

Declining levels of social welfare caused by climate warming and air pollution place increasing constraints on high-quality, sustainable global development. To achieve global climate-governance goals, it is essential to accelerate the process of peaking carbon emissions and meeting air-quality standards. Despite growing awareness of the impact of low-carbon city policies on the environment, few studies have focused on their impact on urban air quality. Based on panel data drawn from 275 cities between 2011 and 2017, the present study evaluates the effects of a low-carbon city policy on urban sulfur-dioxide emissions, using the low-carbon city policy as a quasi-natural experiment. The findings reveal that urban sulfur-dioxide emissions have obvious spatial-autocorrelation characteristics, showing obvious spatial clustering. The low-carbon city policy not only significantly reduced urban sulfur-dioxide emissions in pilot cities, but also suppressed sulfur-dioxide emissions in surrounding cities through an indirect rebound effect. This paper provides a theoretical reference for collaborative governance, which can help to achieve peak carbon emissions and air-quality standards. To reach those goals, nations must abandon territorial prevention-and-control methods based on administrative divisions and to fully activate cross-city regional joint prevention-and-control measures. This study proposes key policies, including promoting inter-city regional coordination mechanisms, strengthening the collaborative governance in relation to carbon-dioxide and sulfur-dioxide emissions, and promoting the construction of inner-city green facilities.
The synergistic effect of bulk-surface modification onto the wear resistance of the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene
Authors: Doronin Fedor A , Rytikov Georgy O , Evdokimov Andrey G , Ruduak Yury V , Nazarov Victor G
Published: January 2023

The paper investigates the effect of bulk and surface modification on the adhesive and tribological properties of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and shows that bulk modification with nano- and micro-sized modifiers (montmorillonite, shungite, exfoliated graphite) mainly reduces the friction coefficient but leads to a decrease in the wear resistance of the corresponding composites. It is found that gas-phase surface fluorination provides an increase in the wear resistance of experimental samples in all cases due to a combination of nanotexturing and chemomorphological transformations of the surface layers of the modified polymers. The significant dependence of the nanotexture on the technique and mode of modification is demonstrated using the original approaches to the quantitative characterization of the experimental samples’ surfaces’ scanning electron microscopy-images (formed with the scanning electron microscope). It is shown that the surface fluorination not only makes possible to significantly compensate for the increase of the friction coefficient of bulk-modified UHMWPE in comparison with the original one but also provides a nonlinear multiplicative increase in the wear resistance.
Racialized Real Estate Agency in U.S. Housing Markets: A Research Note
Authors: Lee Hannah , Crowder Kyle , Korver-Glenn Elizabeth
Published: January 2023

Case studies have illuminated that U.S. real estate agents, as key housing market gatekeepers, continue to maintain racial residential stratification well into the twenty-first century. We use novel survey data gathered from real estate agents across the United States to descriptively explore agents’ ideas about clients of color in the housing market, as well as their practices, such as conducting business through social networks. Our findings provide evidence of the subtle and more overt ways that these ideas and practices that, when taken together, constitute what we call racialized real estate agency and contribute to ongoing racial segregation. We issue a call for future research to continue examining the ways agents’ and other gatekeepers’ ideas and practices contribute to or mitigate stratifying processes and describe the utility of such research for policy.
A longitudinal study of the relationships between sleep problems in autistic children and maternal mental health
Authors: Baker Emma K , Giallo Rebecca , Seymour Monique , Hearps Stephen JC , Wood Catherine E
Published: January 2023

Autistic children experience a high rate of sleep problems, which have been associated with maternal mental health difficulties. However, the directionality of these relationships has received little attention. The extent to which children’s sleep problems influence maternal mental health difficulties and vice versa remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the bidirectional relationships between the sleep problems of autistic children and maternal mental health difficulties over 12 years. Six biennial waves of longitudinal data from when children were 4 to 5 years old were drawn from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. The sample comprised 397 child–mother dyads. Maternal mental health was assessed with the Kessler-6, while sleep problems were assessed through a series of questions relating to common sleep problems in children. The results demonstrated significant bidirectional effects between maternal mental health and child sleep problems at key developmental transition time points. Specifically, when children transitioned from preschool to primary school and again when the children transitioned from primary school to high school. These findings highlight the need for increased support for both the child and mother at these critical time points to reduce the negative impact of maternal psychological distress on child sleep problems and vice versa.

Lay abstract

Autistic children experience increased the rates of sleep problems. These sleep problems have been associated with mother’s mental health symptoms. However, the direction of these relationships is not well understood. This study investigated the relationships between autistic children’s sleep problems and mothers’ mental health over a 12-year period using data collected as part of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Data from 397 autistic children and their mothers were included in this study. Mothers completed a questionnaire about their own mental health and common childhood sleep problems at four time points from 4–5 years to 14–15 years. The results showed important relationships between mothers’ mental health symptoms and child sleep problems at two time points. Specifically, (1) mothers’ mental health symptoms when the child was aged 4 to 5 years predicted child sleep problems at age 6 to 7 years; and (2) child sleep problems at age 12–13 years predicted mothers’ mental health symptoms when the child was aged 14 to 15 years. Interestingly, these significant relationships also coincide with key developmental transition time points, when the child is transitioning in and out of primary school. These findings highlight the need for increased support for both the child and mother at these times to optimise outcomes for both.
Crashworthiness analysis of a composite guardrail under impact loading
Authors: Mohammadi Iman , Haghighi-Yazdi Mojtaba , Safarabadi Majid , Yousefi Armin
Published: January 2023

Road safety barriers prevent cars from deviating from the roads. Guardrails as common roadside safety barriers protect cars from dangers alongside the roads, such as steep slopes and trees, and redirect traffic from road hazards. Conventional guardrails are generally made of metal or concrete. Although steel guardrails absorb a high amount of crash energy by deformation, these types of guardrails have short lifecycles of less than 15 years. Due to their unique properties, composite materials are potential candidates to use as guardrails. The present study considers the three types of guardrails (steel, composite, and fiber metal laminate (FML)), and the crash model is developed according to standards. LS-DYNA software is employed to simulate and conduct the crash test In the first stage, impact simulation is performed on a carbon/epoxy composite plate. In the next step, impact simulation is performed on a metal fiber multilayer (FML) plate with carbon fiber and aluminum metal. Then, the crash test on the steel guardrail is completely simulated. These three stages are performed to verify the proposed model. In the next stage, the crash test for a carbon/epoxy composite guardrail is simulated, and the effect of different parameters is investigated. Finally, a crash test on the FML guardrail with carbon fibers and steel metal is simulated. Two FML samples with [CE/Steel/CE] layups are considered. The absorbed energy, specific energy, and acceleration severity index (ASI) for all different guardrails are obtained and compared to determine the optimum guardrail regarding energy absorption, mass, and ASI parameters. Results reveal that sample FML-B guardrail is the best of the three guardrail types, with the highest specific energy absorption and lower ASI parameter.
Succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit C: Role in cellular physiology and disease
Authors: Wang Qi , Li Mao , Zeng Nannan , Zhou Yali , Yan Jianguo
Published: January 2023

Succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit C ( SDHC) is a subunit of mitochondrial complex II (MCII), which is also known as succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) or succinate: ubiquinone oxidoreductase. Mitochondrial complex II is the smallest respiratory complex in the respiratory chain and contains four subunits. SDHC is a membrane-anchored subunit of SDH, which connects the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the electron transport chain. SDH regulates several physiological processes within cells, plays an important role in generating energy to maintain normal cell growth, and is involved in apoptosis. Currently, SDHC is generally recognized as a tumor-suppressor gene. SDHC mutations can cause oxidative damage in the body. It is closely related to the occurrence and development of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and aging-related diseases. Here, we review studies on the structure, biological function, related diseases of SDHC, and the mev-1 Animal Model of SDHC Mutation and its potential use as a therapeutic target of certain human diseases.
Energy efficiency expenditures in cities with municipal-owned utilities
Authors: Yi Hongtao , Matkin David ST
Published: January 2023

In recent years, local governments have taken an increasingly prominent role in the use and promotion of so-called “green” technologies. Cities and counties that own their own utilities have a unique set of opportunities and incentives to involve citizens in “green” initiatives. Some of those governments invest significant levels of resources on energy efficiency programs, others invest a little, and others are yet to initiate “green” initiatives. We examine this issue with data from municipal-owned utilities in cities with populations over 25,000. We test these relationships with Heckman Selection Models and compare the results with those of investor-owned utilities. We find that the decision to initiate energy efficiency programs is associated with state regulations, siting difficulties and the availability of generation units. We also find that expenditure levels to support those programs are associated with the availability of local retail partners, citizens’ ideological orientation, and demand changes.
Exploring cell surface markers and cell-cell interactions of human breast milk stem cells
Authors: Coni Pierpaolo , Piras Monica , Piludu Marco , Lachowicz Joanna Izabela , Matteddu Anna , Coni Stefano , Reali Alessandra , Fanos Vassilios , Jaremko Mariusz , Faa Gavino , Pichiri Giuseppina
Published: January 2023

Background:

Breakthrough studies have shown that pluripotent stem cells are present in human breast milk. The expression of pluripotency markers by breast milk cells is heterogeneous, relating to cellular hierarchy, from early-stage multi-lineage stem cells to fully differentiated mammary epithelial cells, as well as weeks of gestation and days of lactation.

Design and methods:

Here, we qualitatively analyze cell marker expression in freshly isolated human breast milk cells, without any manipulation that could influence protein expression. Moreover, we use electron microscopy to investigate cell-cell networks in breast milk for the first time, providing evidence of active intercellular communication between cells expressing different cellular markers.

Results:

The immunocytochemistry results of human breast milk cells showed positive staining in all samples for CD44, CD45, CD133, and Ki67 markers. Variable positivity was present with P63, Tβ4 and CK14 markers. No immunostaining was detected for Wt1, nestin, Nanog, OCT4, SOX2, CK5, and CD34 markers. Cells isolated from human breast milk form intercellular connections, which together create a cell-to-cell communication network.

Conclusions:

Cells freshly isolated form human breast milk, without particular manipulations, show heterogeneous expression of stemness markers. The studied milk staminal cells show “pluripotency” at different stages of differentiation, and are present as single cells or grouped cells. The adjacent cell interactions are evidenced by electron microscopy, which showed the formation of intercellular connections, numerous contact regions, and thin pseudopods.
How I treat multiple myeloma in geriatric patients
Authors: Facon Thierry , Leleu Xavier , Manier Salomon
Published: January 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is primarily a disease of older patients. Until recently, geriatric aspects in the context of MM have been poorly investigated. Treatment outcomes for geriatric patients with MM are often compromised by comorbidities and an enhanced susceptibility to adverse events from therapy. Assessment of patient frailty has become more frequent and will be useful in the context of significant and continuous advances in therapy. The recent emergence of immunotherapy with CD38 monoclonal antibodies and upcoming immunooncology drugs, such as bispecific antibodies, will lead to additional therapeutic progress. The applicability of these new molecules to older and frail patients is a key clinical question. Here, we present 2 patient cases derived from clinical practice. We review current frailty scores and standards of care for older, newly diagnosed patients with MM, including frail subgroups, and discuss ways to tailor treatment, as well as treatment perspectives in this population.
Brucella orchitis presenting as a testicular mass mimicking a testicular tumor: a rare case report
Authors: Bapir Rawa , Ahmed Shaho F. , Tahir Soran H. , Salih Abdulwahid M. , Kakamad Fahmi H. , Ahmed Gasha S. , Ali Razhan K. , Ahmed Sasan M. , Sidiq Shadi H.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Brucella epididymo-orchitis is a complication that occurs in 5.7% of patients with brucellosis and can rarely mimic a testicular tumor. We here report a case of a 25-year-old man with a testicular brucellosis that presented as a testicular mass that responded to conservative treatment using antibiotic therapy.

Case report

A 25-year-old patient presented with left testicular pain, abdominal pain, easy fatiguability, and feeling unwell. Physical examinations were normal. A testicular tumor was suggested by a scrotal color Doppler US scan and testicular MRI. However, tumor markers were all within the normal range. A serum Brucella agglutination test (Rose Bengal test) was done, and it was positive. The patient received anti-brucella antibiotics. An ultrasound scan 3 months later revealed complete recovery after completing antibiotic treatments.

Discussion

Brucella orchitis can be determined based on the triad of serology, ultrasonography, and the presence of the common symptoms like fever, testicular pain, redness, and enlargement. The early diagnosis of this phenomenon is crucial due to the morbidity and complications that may be encountered. Moreover, it has several differential diagnoses, such as testicular tumor, epididymitis, trauma, torsion of the testis, and hematocele. Failure to obtain an adequate diagnosis, particularly if a testicular tumor is suspected, may result in unnecessary intervention like orchiectomy.

Conclusion

Brucella orchitis is a complication of brucella infection that may mimic a testicular tumor. Several techniques of diagnosis are required for an accurate assessment.
Curcumin-loaded nanocomplexes alleviate the progression of fluke-related cholangiocarcinoma in hamsters
Authors: Jantawong Chanakan , Chamgramol Yaovalux , Intuyod Kitti , Priprem Aroonsri , Pairojkul Chawalit , Klungsaeng Sirinapha , Dangtakot Rungtiwa , Pongking Thatsanapong , Sitthirach Chutima , Pinlaor Porntip , Waraasawapati Sakda , Pinlaor Somchai
Published: January 2023

Background

Curcumin-loaded nanocomplexes (CNCs) previously demonstrated lower toxicity and extended release better than is the case for free curcumin. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of CNCs against opisthorchiasis-associated cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) in hamsters.

Method

Dose optimization (dose and frequency) was performed over a 1-month period using hamsters, a model that is widely used for study of opisthorchiasis-associated cholangiocarcinoma. In the main experimental study, CCA was induced by a combination of fluke, Opisthorchis viverrini (OV), infection and N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) treatment. Either blank (empty) nanocomplexes (BNCs) or different concentrations of CNCs (equivalent to 10 and 20 mg cur/kg bw) were given to hamsters thrice a week for 5 months. The histopathological changes, biochemical parameters, and the expression of inflammatory/oncogenic transcription factors were investigated. In addition, the role of CNCs in attenuating CCA genesis, as seen in an animal model, was also confirmed in vitro using CCA cell lines.

Results

The optimization study revealed that treatment with CNCs at a dose equivalent to 10 mg cur/kg bw, thrice a week for 1 month, led to a greater reduction of inflammation and liver injury induced in hamsters by OV + NDMA than did treatments at other dose rates. Oral administration with CNCs (10 mg cur/kg bw), thrice a week for 5 months, significantly increased survival rate, reduced CCA incidence, extent of tumor development, cholangitis, bile duct injury and cholangiofibroma. In addition, this treatment decreased serum ALP and ALT activities and suppressed expression of NF-κB, FOXM1, HMGB1, PCNA and formation of 8-nitroguanine. Treatment of CCA cell lines with CNCs also reduced cell proliferation and colony formation, similar to those treated with NF-κB and/or FOXM1 inhibitors.

Conclusion

CNCs (10 mg cur/kg bw) attenuate the progression of fluke-related CCA in hamsters partly via a NF-κB and FOXM1-mediated pathway.
Integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic study unveils the gene regulatory mechanisms of sugarcane growth promotion during interaction with an endophytic nitrogen-fixing bacteria
Authors: Nong Qian , Malviya Mukesh Kumar , Solanki Manoj Kumar , Lin Li , Xie Jinlan , Mo Zhanghong , Wang Zeping , Song Xiupeng , Huang Xin , Li Changning , Li Yangrui
Published: January 2023

Background

Sugarcane growth and yield are complex biological processes influenced by endophytic nitrogen-fixing bacteria, for which the molecular mechanisms involved are largely unknown. In this study, integrated metabolomic and RNA-seq were conducted to investigate the interaction between an endophytic bacterial strain, Burkholderia GXS16, and sugarcane tissue culture seedlings.

Results

During treatment, the colonization of GXS16 in sugarcane roots were determined, along with the enhanced activities of various antioxidant enzymes. Accordingly, 161, 113, and 37 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were found in the pairwise comparisons of adjacent stages. In addition, transcriptomic analyses obtained 1,371 (IN-vs-CN), 1,457 (KN-vs-IN), and 365 (LN-vs-KN) differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were mainly involved in the pathways of glutathione metabolism and carbon metabolism. We then assessed the pattern of metabolite accumulation and gene expression in sugarcane during GXS16 colonization. The results showed that both DAMs and DGEs in the upregulated expression profiles were involved in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway. Overall, p-coumaroyl-CoA in sugarcane roots transferred into homoeriodictyol chalcone and 5-deoxyleucopelargonidin due to the upregulation of the expression of genes shikimate O-hydroxycinnamoyltransferase (HCT), chalcone synthase (CHS), and phlorizin synthase (PGT1).

Conclusions

This study provides insights into the gene regulatory mechanisms involved in the interaction between GXS16 and sugarcane roots, which will facilitate future applications of endophytic nitrogen-fixing bacteria to promote crop growth.
Transcriptome analysis of sugarcane reveals rapid defense response of SES208 to Xanthomonas albilineans in early infection
Authors: Ma Yaying , Yu Hongying , Lu Yijing , Gao Sanji , Fatima Mahpara , Ming Ray , Yue Jingjing
Published: January 2023

Background

Diseases are the major factor affecting the quality and yield of sugarcane during its growth and development. However, our knowledge about the factors regulating disease responses remain limited. The present study focuses on identifying genes regulating transcriptional mechanisms responsible for resistance to leaf scald caused by Xanthomonas albilineans in S. spontaneum and S. officinarum.

Results

After inoculation of the two sugarcane varieties SES208 (S. spontaneum) and LA Purple (S. officinarum) with Xanthomonas albilineans, SES208 exhibited significantly greater resistance to leaf scald caused by X. albilineans than did LA Purple. Using transcriptome analysis, we identified a total of 4323 and 1755 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in inoculated samples of SES208 and LA Purple, respectively. Significantly, 262 DEGs were specifically identified in SES208 that were enriched for KEGG pathway terms such as plant-pathogen interaction, MAPK signaling pathway, and plant hormone signal transduction. Furthermore, we built a transcriptional regulatory co-expression network that specifically identified 16 and 25 hub genes in SES208 that were enriched for putative functions in plant-pathogen interactions, MAPK signaling, and plant hormone signal transduction. All of these essential genes might be significantly involved in resistance-regulating responses in SES208 after X. albilineans inoculation. In addition, we found allele-specific expression in SES208 that was associated with the resistance phenotype of SES208 when infected by X. albilineans. After infection with X. albilineans, a great number of DEGs associated with the KEGG pathways ‘phenylpropanoid biosynthesis’ and ‘flavonoid biosynthesis’ exhibited significant expression changes in SES208 compared to LA Purple that might contribute to superior leaf scald resistance in SES208.

Conclusions

We provided the first systematical transcriptome map that the higher resistance of SES208 is associated with and elicited by the rapid activation of multiple clusters of defense response genes after infection by X. albilineans and not merely due to changes in the expression of genes generically associated with stress resistance. These results will serve as the foundation for further understanding of the molecular mechanisms of resistance against X. albilineans in S. spontaneum.
Association between dietary phosphorus intake and chronic constipation in adults: evidence from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Zhao Xuelian , Wang Lizhu , Quan Longfang
Published: January 2023

Background

Several studies suggest a link between micronutrients and constipation. However, the relationship between constipation and phosphorus has rarely been examined. The main aim of this study was to investigate the association between changes in the prevalence of chronic constipation and dietary phosphorus intake among adult respondents of the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES).

Methods

Data were extracted from the NHANES database for the years 2005–2010. A total of 13,948 people were included in the analysis. Dietary information was collected using the respondents’ 24-h dietary records. We conducted multiple logistic regression analyses to examine the correlation between phosphorus intake and poor bowel movement. The primary and secondary outcomes was constipation defined by stool consistency and stool frequency, respectively.

Results

Following multi-variate adjustment in model III, a significant association between chronic constipation and each additional 0.1-g intake of dietary phosphorus (odds ratio [OR], 0.97; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.95, 1.00; P = 0.034 for stool consistency vs. OR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.90, 0.99; P = 0.027 for stool frequency) was observed. Following multi-variate adjustment in model III, OR values and 95% CI from the second to fourth quartiles compared to the first quartile (reference group) were 0.92 (0.66, 1.27), 0.73 (0.47, 1.13), and 0.39 (0.20, 0.76), respectively, using the stool frequency definition.

Conclusions

This study revealed a negative correlation between phosphorus intake and chronic constipation. This may be due to the fact that dietary phosphorus intake is associated with softer stools and increased stool frequency. Further studies in different settings should be considered to verify these findings.
A prospective analysis of optimal total weight gain ranges and trimester-specific weight gain rates for Chinese pregnant women
Authors: Gong Yunhui , Xu Yujie , Wan Ke , Wang Yidi , Zeng Linan , Zou Kun , Chen Yue , Yang Dagang , Xiong Jingyuan , Zhao Li , Zhang Lingli , Shimokawa Toshio , Cheng Guo
Published: January 2023

Background

Gestational weight gain (GWG) criteria recommended by the Institute of Medicine may not be appropriate for Asians. Our aims are to investigate the association between GWG and adverse pregnancy outcomes, and to propose optimal total GWG and rates of GWG for Chinese women.

Methods

Prospective data of 51,125 mother-child pairs from 27 hospitals and community health care centers from Guizhou, Yunnan and Sichuan provinces in China between 2014 and 2018 were analyzed. Generalized Additive Models were performed to determine the associations of GWG with the risk of aggregated adverse outcomes (gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, stillbirth, preterm birth, macrosomia, large for gestational age, and small for gestational age). The range that did not exceed a 2.5% increase from the lowest risk of aggregated adverse outcomes was defined as the optimal GWG range.

Results

Among all participants, U-shaped prospective association was found between GWG and the risk of aggregated adverse pregnancy outcomes. The optimal GWG range of 8.2–13.0 kg was proposed for underweight, 7.3–12.5 kg for normal weight, and 2.0–9.4 kg for overweight/obese women. Meanwhile, a higher GWG rate in the first two trimesters than that in the last trimester was suggested, except for overweight/obese women. After stratified by maternal age, mothers ≥35 years were suggested to gain less weight compared to younger mothers.

Conclusions

To keep a balance between maternal health and neonatal growth, optimal GWG ranges based on Asia-specific BMI categories was suggested for Chinese women with different pre-gravid BMIs and maternal ages.
Evaluation of the community involvement of nursing experts in reducing unintentional injuries in children
Authors: Qian Li-Fang , Cheng Ting-Ting , Chen Hong-Xia , He Dong-Hui , Peng Xiao-Min , Zhao Qing-Hua
Published: January 2023

Background

Nursing experts regularly visited the community to deliver safety education on the prevention of unintentional injuries in children to the parents of children aged 0–6 years and to pregnant women in a maternity school. This was undertaken to explore the effects of the measure on preventing unintentional injuries in children in Chizhou, China.

Methods

Using the convenience sampling method, the guardians(it means mother in this study)of children were investigated. The nursing experts visited communities in which the number of nursing experts is declining. Data on unintentional injuries in children in the previous year were collected retrospectively.

Results

After the nursing experts delivered safety education to the community, the scores of the questionnaire on unintentional injury prevention knowledge completed by children’s guardians increased significantly (p < 0.01). Among the children whose guardians completed the questionnaire, there were 157 cases of unintentional injury in 2020 and 103 cases in 2021 (p < 0.05). The types of unintentional injuries included scratches, falls, sharp object injuries, swallowing of foreign bodies, burns and traffic accidents; there was no statistical difference (p > 0.05). However, there were significant differences in terms of gender ratio and location (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In conjunction with the maternity school for pregnant women and the vaccination programme, nursing experts delivered safety education regarding unintentional injuries in children; this may have promoted safety and protection awareness in the children’s guardians and reduced unintentional injuries.
Effects of antipsychotic and anticholinergic medications on cognition in chronic patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Haddad Chadia , Salameh Pascale , Sacre Hala , Clément Jean-Pierre , Calvet Benjamin
Published: January 2023

Background

Patients with psychosis frequently use a variety of psychotropic medicines, many of which have anticholinergic effects that can impair cognition. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate whether there is an association between medications used for neuropsychological disorders/symptoms and cognition in patients with schizophrenia, focusing on their anticholinergic load and antipsychotic doses.

Study design

A cross-sectional study between July 2019 and Mars 2020 at the Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross-Lebanon enrolled 120 inpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia. The total anticholinergic burden was calculated based on the Anticholinergic Drug Scale (ADS), and the chlorpromazine equivalent dose was calculated using the Andreasen method to assess the relative antipsychotic dose. Also, the objective cognition was assessed using the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) tool.

Study results.

A significantly higher BACS total score (r = -0.33, p < 0.001), higher verbal memory (r = -0.26, p = 0.004), higher working memory (r = -0.20, p = 0.03), higher motor speed (r = -0.36, p < 0.001), and higher attention and speed of information processing (r = -0.27, p = 0.003) were significantly associated with lower chlorpromazine equivalent dose. Higher ADS (Standardized Beta (SB) = -.22; p = .028), higher chlorpromazine equivalent dose (SB = -.30; p = .001), and taking mood stabilizer medications (SB = -.24; p = .004) were significantly associated with lower cognition.

Conclusion

This study confirms that the cognitive functions of chronic patients with schizophrenia may be affected by medications and their anticholinergic burden. More studies are needed to explain the role of cholinergic neurotransmission and general neurochemical mechanisms in the cognitive impairment of patients with schizophrenia.
The trend in quality of life of Chinese population: analysis based on population health surveys from 2008 to 2020
Authors: Wang Dingyao , Xie Shitong , Wu Jing , Sun Bei
Published: January 2023

Background

Quality of life (QoL) is one of the most important indicators for evaluating an individual’s overall health status. However, evidence exploring the trend in QoL of the Chinese population is still lacking. This study aimed to investigate the trend in QoL of the Chinese population measured by the EQ-5D from 2008 to 2020, as well as compare the changing trends in QoL categorized by populations with different socio-demographic characteristics.

Methods

Data were obtained from the 2008, 2013, and 2020 waves of the Health Services Surveys conducted in Tianjin, China. Respondents completed the EQ-5D (EQ-5D-3L in 2008 and 2013 and EQ-5D-5L in 2020) through face-to-face interviews or self-administration. Responses of the EQ-5D-3L in 2008 and 2013 were mapped onto the EQ-5D-5L responses, and then converted to utility values using the Chinese value set. The trend in QoL was explored by comparing the percentage of any reported problems on each EQ-5D dimension and the corresponding utility values across the three waves. Subgroup analyses were performed to compare trends in utility values stratified by socio-demographic indicators. The effect of the time variable (year) on utility values was assessed by multiple linear regression analyses using the pooled data.

Results

By analyzing and comparing the three waves of the data (N = 25,939 in the 2008 wave, N = 22,138 in 2013, and N = 19,177 in 2020), an upward trend was observed in the percentages of reporting problems on all five dimensions (p < 0.001), resulting in a decreasing trend in utility values (2008: 0.948, 2013: 0.942, 2020: 0.939, p < 0.001). Utility values declined more over time among the female, the elder, the recipients of medical assistance, the widowed, the unemployed, and respondents with primary or lower education. The effect of the year (Coef. for 2013 = − 0.009, p < 0.001; Coef. for 2020 = − 0.010, p < 0.001) confirmed the downward trend in the utility values.

Conclusions

The overall QoL of the Chinese population decreased over the period from 2008 to 2020. The QoL of the disadvantaged or vulnerable populations in terms of socioeconomic characteristics declined more over time.
A comparative examination of the role of need in the relationship between dental service use and socio-economic status across respondents with distinct needs using data from the Scottish Health Survey
Authors: Almutairi Majed , McKenna Gerry , O’Neill Ciaran
Published: January 2023

Background

Disparities in oral health and distinct patterns in service use related to socio-economic status have been shown to exist in the United Kingdom. A number of studies have used the Andersen behavioural model to better understand the factors that influence utilization and thereby inform policies aimed at improving service uptake. As the nature of need may differ across distinct types of patients, however, so too may the distribution of enabling and pre-disposing factors and observed relationships between need, other factors and service use. In this study we compare samples with distinct self-assessed needs in terms of their characteristics and patterns of service use to compare application of the Andersen model to dental services among respondents to a population based survey.

Materials and methods

Data were taken from the Scottish Health Survey, for 2019. Data on service use, oral hygiene habits, perceived treatment need, and socio-demographic characteristics were extracted. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t-tests and ordered logistic regression analyses.

Results

Two thousand one hundred forty-eight usable responses were obtained from the survey, 74.95% of the sample had visited the dentist less than a year ago, 11.82% between 1 year and up to 2 years ago, 7.12% between 2 and 5 years ago and 6.10% more than 5 years. Descriptive statistics, t-tests and ordered logistic regression analyses revealed distinct patterns of service use when the sample was partitioned based on perceived treatment need. Specifically those with self-assessed treatment need were older, more likely to smoke, be male and be less likely to have a degree than those who did not. While service use was positively related to age (predisposing) among those who did not have self-assessed treatment need, it was negatively related for those with perceived treatment need. Distinct patterns were also evident with respect to sugar exposure (need) and ease with which time off work could be organised (enabling).

Discussion

The study shows common and distinct patterns of service use related to enabling and predisposing factors across groups differentiated by self-perceived treatment need. If inequalities in health and healthcare use are to be addressed, it is important to understand their origins. Conflation of distinct types of need that may correlate with predisposing and enabling factors complicates this.

Conclusion

In applying the Andersen model, it is important to take account of potential differences in the types of need expressed where possible to understand the role of other variables in service use.
Functional results and unfavorable events after treatment of proximal humerus fractures using a new locking plate system
Authors: Kimmeyer Michael , Schmalzl Jonas , Rentschler Verena , Jessen Malik , Gerhardt Christian , Lehmann Lars-Johannes
Published: January 2023

Background

Proximal humerus fractures are often treated with a fixed-angle titanium plate osteosynthesis. Recently, plates made of alternative materials such as carbon fibre-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) have been introduced. This study presents the postoperative results of patients treated with a CFR-PEEK plate.

Methods

Patients with proximal humerus fractures treated with a CFR-PEEK plate (PEEKPower™ Humeral Fracture Plate (HFP)) were included. In follow-up examination, age and gender adjusted Constant-Murley Score (ACS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (QDASH) and pain score (Visual Analog Scale (VAS)) were analyzed. General condition at follow-up was measured by European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level Version (EQ-5D-3L). Range of motion was recorded. In addition, radiographs at follow-up, unfavorable events and revision rate were analyzed.

Results

In total, 98 patients (66.0 ± 13.2 years, 74 females, 24 males) were reexamined. Mean follow-up was 27.6 ± 13.2 months. There were 15 2-part, 28 3-part and 55 4-part fractures. The functional scores showed good results: SSV 83.3 ± 15.6%, QDASH 13.1 ± 17.0 and ACS 80.4 ± 16.0. A 4-part-fracture, head split component, nonanatomic head shaft reposition and preoperative radiological signs of osteoarthritis were significant negative predictors for poorer clinical scores. Unfavourable events were observed in 27 patients (27.6%). Revision surgery was performed in 8 (8.2%) patients. Risk factors for an unfavourable event were female gender, age of 50 years and older, diabetes, affected dominant hand, 4-part fracture, head split and preoperative radiological signs of osteoarthritis.

Conclusion

There are several advantages of the CFR-PEEK plate (PEEKPower™ Humeral Fracture Plate (HFP)) such as the polyaxial screw placement and higher stability of locking screws. In summary, the CFR-PEEK plate osteosynthesis is a good alternative with comparable clinical results and some biomechanical advantages. Proximal humerus fractures show good clinical results after treatment with a CFR-PEEK plate. The revision rate and the risk of unfavorable events are not increased compared to conventional titanium plate osteosynthesis.

Level of evidence

IV
Production of rhamnolipid biosurfactants in solid-state fermentation: process optimization and characterization studies
Authors: Dabaghi Shima , Ataei Seyed Ahmad , Taheri Ali
Published: January 2023

Background

Rhamnolipids are a group of the extracellular microbial surface-active molecules produced by certain Pseudomonas species with various environmental and industrial applications. The goal of the present research was to identify and optimize key process parameters for Pseudomonas aeruginosa PTCC 1074s synthesis of rhamnolipids utilizing soybean meal in solid state fermentation. A fractional factorial design was used to screen the key nutritional and environmental parameters to achieve the high rhamnolipid production. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the levels of four significant factors.

Results

The characterization of biosurfactant by TLC, FT-IR and H-NMR showed the rhamnolipids presence. In the optimum conditions (temperature 34.5 °C, humidity 80%, inoculum size 1.4 mL, and glycerol 5%), the experimental value of rhamnolipid production was 19.68 g/kg dry substrate. The obtained rhamnolipid biosurfactant decreased water's surface tension from 71.8 ± 0.4 to 32.2 ± 0.2 mN/m with a critical micelle concentration of nearly 70 mg/L. Additionally, analysis of the emulsification activity revealed that the generated biosurfactant was stable throughout a broad pH, temperature, and NaCl concentration range.

Conclusions

The current study confirmed the considerable potential of agro-industrial residues in the production of rhamnolipid and enhanced the production yield by screening and optimizing the significant process parameters.