bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement method of tear meniscus height based on deep learning
Authors: Wan Cheng , Hua Rongrong , Guo Ping , Lin Peijie , Wang Jiantao , Yang Weihua , Hong Xiangqian
Published: February 2023

Tear meniscus height (TMH) is an important reference parameter in the diagnosis of dry eye disease. However, most traditional methods of measuring TMH are manual or semi-automatic, which causes the measurement of TMH to be prone to the influence of subjective factors, time consuming, and laborious. To solve these problems, a segmentation algorithm based on deep learning and image processing was proposed to realize the automatic measurement of TMH. To accurately segment the tear meniscus region, the segmentation algorithm designed in this study is based on the DeepLabv3 architecture and combines the partial structure of the ResNet50, GoogleNet, and FCN networks for further improvements. A total of 305 ocular surface images were used in this study, which were divided into training and testing sets. The training set was used to train the network model, and the testing set was used to evaluate the model performance. In the experiment, for tear meniscus segmentation, the average intersection over union was 0.896, the dice coefficient was 0.884, and the sensitivity was 0.877. For the central ring of corneal projection ring segmentation, the average intersection over union was 0.932, the dice coefficient was 0.926, and the sensitivity was 0.947. According to the evaluation index comparison, the segmentation model used in this study was superior to the existing model. Finally, the measurement outcome of TMH of the testing set using the proposed method was compared with manual measurement results. All measurement results were directly compared via linear regression; the regression line was y0.98x−0.02, and the overall correlation coefficient was r20.94. Thus, the proposed method for measuring TMH in this paper is highly consistent with manual measurement and can realize the automatic measurement of TMH and assist clinicians in the diagnosis of dry eye disease.
The Bigger the Better? Center Volume Dependent Effects on Procedural and Functional Outcome in Established Endovascular Stroke Centers
Authors: Hahn Marianne , Gröschel Sonja , Tanyildizi Yasemin , Brockmann Marc A. , Gröschel Klaus , Uphaus Timo ,   German Stroke Registry-Endovascular Treatment (GSR-ET) Investigators
Published: February 2023

Background

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) rates for the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion are steadily increasing, but are delivered in heterogenic settings. We aim to investigate effects of procedural load in centers with established MT-structures by comparing high- vs. low-volume centers with regard to procedural characteristics and functional outcomes.

Methods

Data from 5,379 patients enrolled in the German Stroke Registry Endovascular Treatment (GSR-ET) between June 2015 and December 2019 were compared between three groups: high volume: ≥180 MTs/year, 2,342 patients; medium volume: 135–179 MTs/year, 2,202 patients; low volume: <135 MTs/year, 835 patients. Univariate analysis and multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify differences between high- and low-volume centers.

Results

We identified high- vs. low-volume centers to be an independent predictor of shorter intra-hospital (admission to groin puncture: 60 vs. 82 min, β = −26.458; p < 0.001) and procedural times (groin puncture to flow restoration: 36 vs. 46.5 min; β = −12.452; p < 0.001) after adjusting for clinically relevant factors. Moreover, high-volume centers predicted a shorter duration of hospital stay (8 vs. 9 days; β = −2.901; p < 0.001) and favorable medical facility at discharge [transfer to neurorehabilitation facility/home vs. hospital/nursing home/in-house fatality, odds ratio (OR) 1.340, p = 0.002]. Differences for functional outcome at 90-day follow-up were observed only on univariate level in the subgroup of primarily to MT center admitted patients (mRS 0–2 38.5 vs. 32.8%, p = 0.028), but did not persist in multivariate analyses.

Conclusion

Differences in efficiency measured by procedural times call for analysis and optimization of in-house procedural workflows at regularly used but comparatively low procedural volume MT centers.
Development and evaluation clinical-radiomics analysis based on T1-weighted imaging for diagnosing neonatal acute bilirubin encephalopathy
Authors: Yu Jinhong , Liu Yangyingqiu , Jiang Yuhan , Gao Bingbing , Wang Jingshi , Guo Yan , Xie Lizhi , Miao Yanwei
Published: February 2023

Purpose

To investigate the value of clinical-radiomics analysis based on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) for predicting acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE) in neonates.

Methods

In this retrospective study, sixty-one neonates with clinically confirmed ABE and 50 healthy control neonates were recruited between October 2014 and March 2019. Two radiologists' visual diagnoses for all subjects were independently based on T1WI. Eleven clinical and 216 radiomics features were obtained and analyzed. Seventy percent of samples were randomly selected as the training group and were used to establish a clinical-radiomics model to predict ABE; the remaining samples were used to validate the performance of the models. The discrimination performance was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

Seventy-eight neonates were selected for training (median age, 9 days; interquartile range, 7–20 days; 49 males) and 33 neonates for validation (median age, 10 days; interquartile range, 6–13 days; 24 males). Two clinical features and ten radiomics features were finally selected to construct the clinical-radiomics model. In the training group, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.90 (sensitivity: 0.814; specificity: 0.914); in the validation group, the AUC was 0.93 (sensitivity: 0.944; specificity: 0.800). The AUCs of two radiologists' and the radiologists' final visual diagnosis results based on T1WI were 0.57, 0.63, and 0.66, respectively. The discriminative performance of the clinical-radiomics model in the training and validation groups was increased compared to the radiologists' visual diagnosis (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A combined clinical-radiomics model based on T1WI has the potential to predict ABE. The application of the nomogram could potentially provide a visualized and precise clinical support tool.
Subjective and objective quality assessment of gastrointestinal endoscopy images: From manual operation to artificial intelligence
Authors: Yuan Peng , Bai Ruxue , Yan Yan , Li Shijie , Wang Jing , Cao Changqi , Wu Qi
Published: February 2023

Gastrointestinal endoscopy has been identified as an important tool for cancer diagnosis and therapy, particularly for treating patients with early gastric cancer (EGC). It is well known that the quality of gastroscope images is a prerequisite for achieving a high detection rate of gastrointestinal lesions. Owing to manual operation of gastroscope detection, in practice, it possibly introduces motion blur and produces low-quality gastroscope images during the imaging process. Hence, the quality assessment of gastroscope images is the key process in the detection of gastrointestinal endoscopy. In this study, we first present a novel gastroscope image motion blur (GIMB) database that includes 1,050 images generated by imposing 15 distortion levels of motion blur on 70 lossless images and the associated subjective scores produced with the manual operation of 15 viewers. Then, we design a new artificial intelligence (AI)-based gastroscope image quality evaluator (GIQE) that leverages the newly proposed semi-full combination subspace to learn multiple kinds of human visual system (HVS) inspired features for providing objective quality scores. The results of experiments conducted on the GIMB database confirm that the proposed GIQE showed more effective performance compared with its state-of-the-art peers.
Care patterns and Traditional Chinese Medicine constitution as factors of depression and anxiety in patients with systemic sclerosis: A cross-sectional study during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kong Qi , Chen Li-Ming , Dai Zong-Hao , Tang Yun-Zhe , Zhou Yu-Yang , Tu Wen-Zhen , Zhao Yin-Huan , Zhang Jia-Qian
Published: February 2023

Objective

Care patterns and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) constitution affects the emotion and health of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) while the prevalence of COVID-19 may aggravate such patients’ emotion and health. We investigated the depression and anxiety levels of patients with SSc during the pandemic to identify the correlation between care patterns, TCM constitution, and patients’ emotion.

Materials and methods

This was a cross-sectional study. Patients with SSc and healthy individuals were surveyed using the patient health questionnaire-9, generalized anxiety disorder-7, and constitution in Chinese medicine questionnaire and a modified care pattern questionnaire. Factors correlated with depression and anxiety were screened using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

A total of 273 patients with SSc and 111 healthy individuals were included in the analysis. The proportion of patients with SSc who were depressed was 74.36%, who had anxiety was 51.65%, and who experienced disease progression during the pandemic was 36.99%. The proportion of income reduction in the online group (56.19%) was higher than that in the hospital group (33.33%) (P = 0.001). Qi-deficiency [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 2.250] and Qi-stagnation (adjusted OR = 3.824) constitutions were significantly associated with depression. Remote work during the outbreak (adjusted OR = 1.920), decrease in income (adjusted OR = 3.556), and disease progression (P = 0.030) were associated with the occurrence of depression.

Conclusion

Chinese patients with SSc have a high prevalence of depression and anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the care patterns of Chinese patients with SSc, and work, income, disease progression, and change of medications were correlates of depression or anxiety in patients with SSc. Qi-stagnation and Qi-deficiency constitutions were associated with depression, and Qi-stagnation constitution was associated with anxiety in patients with SSc.

Trial registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=62301, identifier ChiCTR2000038796.
Flavonoid intake is associated with lower all-cause and disease-specific mortality: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2010 and 2017–2018
Authors: Zhou Fengying , Gu Ke , Zhou Yanjun
Published: February 2023

Adequate intake of flavonoids may influence mortality, particularly of heart and cerebrovascular diseases. However, the importance of each flavonoid and its subclasses in preventing all-cause and disease-specific mortalities remain unclear. In addition, it is unknown which population groups would benefit from high flavonoid intake. Therefore, personalized mortality risk based on flavonoid intake needs to be estimated. The association between flavonoid intake and mortality among 14,029 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was examined using Cox proportional hazards analysis. A prognostic risk score and nomogram linking flavonoid intake and mortality were constructed. During a median follow-up of 117 months (9.75 years), 1,603 incident deaths were confirmed. Total flavonol intake was associated with a significantly reduced all-cause mortality [multivariable adjusted hazard ratio [HR] (95% confidence interval [CI]), 0.87 (0.81, 0.94), p for trend <0.001], especially in participants aged 50 years and older and former smokers. Similarly, total anthocyanidin intake was inversely associated with all-cause mortality [0.91 (0.84, 0.99), p for trend = 0.03], which was most significant in non-alcoholics. The intake of isoflavones was negatively associated with all-cause mortality [0.81 (0.70, 0.94), p = 0.01]. Moreover, a risk score was constructed based on survival-related flavonoid intake. The constructed nomogram accurately predicted the all-cause mortality of individuals based on flavonoid intake. Taken together, our results can be used to improve personalized nutrition.
Differentiation of sea buckthorn syrups processed by high pressure, pulsed electric fields, ohmic heating, and thermal pasteurization based on quality evaluation and chemical fingerprinting
Authors: Sevenich Robert , Gratz Maximilian , Hradecka Beverly , Fauster Thomas , Teufl Thomas , Schottroff Felix , Chytilova Lucie Souckova , Hurkova Kamila , Tomaniova Monika , Hajslova Jana , Rauh Cornelia , Jaeger Henry
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Impact of processing on product characteristics, sustainability, traceability, authenticity, and public health along the food chain becomes more and more important not only to the producer but also to the customer and the trust of a consumer toward a brand. In recent years, the number of juices and smoothies containing so called super foods or fruits, which have been “gently pasteurized,” has increased significantly. However, the term “gentle pasteurization” related to the application of emerging preservation technologies such as pulsed electric fields (PEF), high pressure processing (HPP) or ohmic heating (OH) is not clearly defined.

Methods

Therefore, the presented study investigated the influence of PEF, HPP, OH, and thermal treatment on quality characteristics and microbial safety of sea buckthorn syrup. Syrups from two different varieties were investigated under the following conditions HPP (600 MPa 4–8 min), OH (83°C and 90°C), PEF (29.5 kV/cm, 6 μs, 100 Hz), and thermal (88°C, hot filling). Analyses to test the influence on quality parameters like ascorbic acid (AA), flavonoids, carotenoids, tocopherols, antioxidant activity; metabolomical/chemical profiling (fingerprinting) via U-HPLC-HRMS/MS (here especially flavonoids and fatty acids); sensory evaluation, as well as microbial stability including storage, were conducted.

Results and discussion

Independent from the treatment, the samples were stable over 8 weeks of storage at 4°C. The influence on the nutrient content [Ascorbic acid (AA), total antioxidant activity (TAA), total phenolic compounds (TPC), tocopherols (Vit E)] was similar for all tested technologies. Employing statistical evaluation Principal Component Analysis (PCA) a clear clustering based on the processing technologies was observed. Flavonoids as well as fatty acids were significantly impacted by the type of used preservation technology. This was obvious during the storage time of PEF and HPP syrups, where enzyme activity was still active. The color as well as taste of the syrups were found to be more fresh-like for the HPP treated samples.
Prehospital emergency medicine for children receiving palliative home care in Germany—a cross-sectional, exploratory study of EMS providers
Authors: Hauch Holger , El Mohaui Naual , Vaillant Vera , Sander Michael , Kriwy Peter , Rohde Marius , Wolff Johannes , Berthold Daniel , Schneck Emmanuel
Published: February 2023

Background

The prevalence of children with life-limiting conditions is rising, and since the amendment of the social insurance code in Germany, palliative home care teams have treated an increasing number of children. These teams provide 24/7 readiness, yet some parents still call the general emergency medical service (EMS) for various reasons. EMS is exposed to complex medical problems in rare diseases. Questions arose about the experiences of EMS and whether they felt prepared for emergencies involving children treated by a palliative care team.

Methods

This study used a mixed methods approach to focus on the interface between palliative care and EMS. First, open interviews were conducted, and a questionnaire was developed based on the results. The variables included demographic items and individual experiences with patients. Second, a case report of a child with respiratory insufficiency was presented to assess the spontaneous treatment intentions of EMS providers. Finally, the need, relevant topics, and duration of specific training in palliative care for EMS providers were evaluated.

Results

In total, 1,005 EMS providers responded to the questionnaire. The average age was 34.5 years (±10.94SD), 74.6% were male. The average work experience was 11.8 years (±9.7), 21.4% were medical doctors. Experience with a call of a life-threatening emergency involving a child was reported by 61.5% and severe psychological distress during such a call was reported by 60.4%. The equivalent distress frequency for adult patient calls was 38.3%. (p < 0.001). After review of the case report, the EMS respondents suggested invasive treatment options and rapid transport to the hospital. Most (93.7%) respondents welcomed the consideration of special training in pediatric palliative care. This training should include basic information about palliative care, an analysis of cases involving palliatively treated children, an ethical perspective, practical recommendations, and available (24/7) local contact for further guidance and support.

Conclusion

Emergencies in pediatric palliatively treated patients were more common than expected. EMS providers perceived the situations as stressful, and there is a need for specific training with practical aspects.
Neurological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infections in the pediatric population
Authors: Casabianca Manon , Caula Caroline , Titomanlio Luigi , Lenglart Léa
Published: February 2023

COVID-19 in the pediatric population is mostly asymptomatic. However, 1 out of 5 children presents non-specific neurologic symptoms such as headache, weakness, or myalgia. Furthermore, rarer forms of neurological diseases are increasingly being described in association to a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Encephalitis, stroke, cranial nerves impairment, Guillain-Barré syndrome or acute transverse myelitis have been reported and account for around 1% of pediatric COVID-19 cases. Some of these pathologies may occur during or after the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The pathophysiological mechanisms range from direct invasion of the central nervous system (CNS) by SARS-CoV-2 itself to postinfectious immune-mediated CNS inflammation. In most cases, patients presenting neurological pathologies related to SARS-CoV-2 infection are at greater risk of life-threatening complications and should be closely monitored. Further studies are needed to acknowledge the potential long-term neurodevelopmental consequences of the infection.
Antidiabetic effects of Andrographis paniculata supplementation on biochemical parameters, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress in canine diabetes
Authors: Suemanotham Namphung , Phochantachinda Sataporn , Chatchaisak Duangthip , Sakcamduang Walasinee , Chansawhang Anchana , Pitchakarn Pornsiri , Chantong Boonrat
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disorder that causes hyperglycemia in dogs. Persistent hyperglycemia can induce inflammation and oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate the effects of A. paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees (Acanthaceae) (A. paniculata) on blood glucose, inflammation, and oxidative stress in canine diabetes. A total of 41 client-owned dogs (23 diabetic and 18 clinically healthy) were included in this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Methods: The diabetic dogs were further divided into two treatments protocols: group 1 received A. paniculata extract capsules (50 mg/kg/day; n = 6) or received placebo for 90 days (n = 7); and group 2 received A. paniculata extract capsules (100 mg/kg/day; n = 6) or received a placebo for 180 days (n = 4). Blood and urine samples were collected every month. No significant differences in fasting blood glucose, fructosamine, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde levels were observed between the treatment and placebo groups (p > 0.05).

Results and Discussion: The levels of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine were stable in the treatment groups. The blood glucose levels and concentrations of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in the client-owned diabetic dogs were not altered by A. paniculata supplementation. Furthermore, treatment with this extract did not have any adverse effects on the animals. Non-etheless, the effects of A. paniculata on canine diabetes must be appropriately evaluated using a proteomic approach and involving a wider variety of protein markers.
Kaixin-San improves Aβ-induced synaptic plasticity inhibition by affecting the expression of regulation proteins associated with postsynaptic AMPAR expression
Authors: Zhang Bo , Wang Meng-Lu , Huang Shu-Ming , Cui Yu , Li Yan
Published: February 2023

Objective: To explore the mechanism underlying Kaixin-San (KXS) regulation of postsynaptic AMPA receptor (AMPAR) expression to mitigate toxic effects of the amyloid-β protein (Aβ).

Methods: An animal model was established via intracerebroventricular injection of Aβ1–42. The Morris water maze test was conducted to evaluate learning and memory, while electrophysiological recording was conducted to assess the hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP). Western blotting was used to detect expression levels of the hippocampal postsynaptic AMPAR and its accessory proteins.

Results: The time spent to find the platform was significantly prolonged, the number of mice crossing the target site was significantly reduced, and the maintenance of LTP was inhibited in the Aβ group than in the control group. In the Aβ/KXS group, the time taken to find the platform was significantly shortened and the number of mice crossing the target site was significantly increased than in the Aβ group; furthermore, the inhibition of LTP induced by Aβ was reversed. The expression of GluR1, GluR2, ABP, GRIP1, NSF, and pGluR1–Ser845 was upregulated, while that of pGluR2–Ser880 and PKC δ was downregulated in the Aβ/KXS group.

Conclusion: The increased expression of ABP, GRIP1, NSF, and pGluR1–Ser845 and the decreased expression of pGluR2–Ser880 and PKC δ under the influence of KXS, followed by the upregulation of postsynaptic GluR1 and GluR2, alleviated the inhibition of LTP induced by Aβ. Ultimately, the memory function of model animals was improved by KXS. Our study provides novel insights into the mechanism underlying KXS mitigation of Aβ-induced synaptic plasticity inhibition and memory impairment by altering the levels of accessory proteins associated with AMPAR expression.
High-speed 2D light-sheet fluorescence microscopy enables quantification of spatially varying calcium dynamics in ventricular cardiomyocytes
Authors: Dvinskikh Liuba , Sparks Hugh , MacLeod Kenneth T. , Dunsby Chris
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Reduced synchrony of calcium release and t-tubule structure organization in individual cardiomyocytes has been linked to loss of contractile strength and arrhythmia. Compared to confocal scanning techniques widely used for imaging calcium dynamics in cardiac muscle cells, light-sheet fluorescence microscopy enables fast acquisition of a 2D plane in the sample with low phototoxicity.

Methods: A custom light-sheet fluorescence microscope was used to achieve dual-channel 2D timelapse imaging of calcium and the sarcolemma, enabling calcium sparks and transients in left and right ventricle cardiomyocytes to be correlated with the cell microstructure. Imaging electrically stimulated dual-labelled cardiomyocytes immobilized with para-nitroblebbistatin, a non-phototoxic, low fluorescence contraction uncoupler, with sub-micron resolution at 395 fps over a 38 μm × 170 µm FOV allowed characterization of calcium spark morphology and 2D mapping of the calcium transient time-to-half-maximum across the cell.

Results: Blinded analysis of the data revealed sparks with greater amplitude in left ventricle myocytes. The time for the calcium transient to reach half-maximum amplitude in the central part of the cell was found to be, on average, 2 ms shorter than at the cell ends. Sparks co-localized with t-tubules were found to have significantly longer duration, larger area and spark mass than those further away from t-tubules.

Conclusion: The high spatiotemporal resolution of the microscope and automated image-analysis enabled detailed 2D mapping and quantification of calcium dynamics of n = 60 myocytes, with the findings demonstrating multi-level spatial variation of calcium dynamics across the cell, supporting the dependence of synchrony and characteristics of calcium release on the underlying t-tubule structure.
Population genetics and phylogeography of alfalfa mosaic virus in China and a comparison with other regional epidemics based on the cp gene
Authors: Wang Xin , Liu Chenchen , Tan Zhaoyan , Zhang Jiantai , Wang Rongqun , Wang Yuanhong , Jiang Xiliang , Wu Beilei
Published: February 2023

Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) is the most pervasive epidemic virus affecting alfalfa production. However, detailed investigations on the molecular population genetics and evolutionary dynamics of AMV are scarce. This study aimed to report on a large-scale long-term survey of genetic variability in AMV populations from China and perform a comparative analysis of AMV population genetics in the three most thoroughly studied countries to date: China, Iran, and Spain. The study was based on the analysis of the coat protein gene (cp) using two analytical approaches: an analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) and a Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo approach that investigates the association between geographical origin and phylogeny. Both analytical approaches found significant genetic differentiation within localities, but not among localities nor among provinces. This observation might result from inappropriate agronomical practices involving extensive exchange of plant materials followed by rapid viral diversification within localities. In the Chinese population, both methods found that genetic diversification in AMV was strongly associated with different bioclimatic zones. Rates of molecular evolution were similar in the three countries. The estimated epidemic exponential population size and growth rate suggest that the epidemics grew faster and with higher incidence in Iran, followed by Spain and China. Estimates of the time to the most recent common ancestors suggest that AMV was first seen in Spain by the beginning of the twentieth century and later on in eastern and central Eurasia. After ruling out the existence of recombination breakpoints within the cp gene, a codon-based selection analysis per population was performed and identified many codons under significant negative selection and a few under significant positive selection; the latter varied among countries, suggesting regional differences in selective pressures.
Research of intelligent reasoning system of Arabidopsis thaliana phenotype based on automated multi-task machine learning
Authors: Yuan Peisen , Xu Shuning , Zhai Zhaoyu , Xu Huanliang
Published: February 2023

Traditional machine learning in plant phenotyping research requires the assistance of professional data scientists and domain experts to adjust the structure and hy-perparameters tuning of neural network models with much human intervention, making the model training and deployment ineffective. In this paper, the automated machine learning method is researched to construct a multi-task learning model for Arabidopsis thaliana genotype classification, leaf number, and leaf area regression tasks. The experimental results show that the genotype classification task’s accuracy and recall achieved 98.78%, precision reached 98.83%, and classification F1 value reached 98.79%, as well as the R2 of leaf number regression task and leaf area regression task reached 0.9925 and 0.9997 respectively. The experimental results demonstrated that the multi-task automated machine learning model can combine the benefits of multi-task learning and automated machine learning, which achieved more bias information from related tasks and improved the overall classification and prediction effect. Additionally, the model can be created automatically and has a high degree of generalization for better phenotype reasoning. In addition, the trained model and system can be deployed on cloud platforms for convenient application.
Genome-wide analysis of the polyphenol oxidase gene family reveals that MaPPO1 and MaPPO6 are the main contributors to fruit browning in Musa acuminate
Authors: Qin Fei , Hu Chunhua , Dou Tongxin , Sheng Ou , Yang Qiaosong , Deng Guiming , He Weidi , Gao Huijun , Li Chunyu , Dong Tao , Yi Ganjun , Bi Fangcheng
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Polyphenol oxidases (PPOs), which are widely present in plants, play an important role in the growth, development, and stress responses. They can catalyze the oxidization of polyphenols and result in the browning of damaged or cut fruit, which seriously affects fruit quality and compromises the sale of fruit. In banana (Musa acuminata, AAA group), 10 PPO genes were determined based on the availability of a high-quality genome sequence, but the role of PPO genes in fruit browning remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed the physicochemical properties, gene structure, conserved structural domains, and evolutionary relationship of the PPO gene family of banana. The expression patterns were analyzed based on omics data and verified by qRT-PCR analysis. Transient expression assay in tobacco leaves was used to identify the subcellular localization of selected MaPPOs, and we analyzed the polyphenol oxidase activity using recombinant MaPPOs and transient expression assay.

Results and discussion

We found that more than two-thirds of the MaPPO genes had one intron, and all contained three conserved structural domains of PPO, except MaPPO4. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that MaPPO genes were categorized into five groups. MaPPOs did not cluster with Rosaceae and Solanaceae, indicating distant affinities, and MaPPO6/7/8/9/10 clustered into an individual group. Transcriptome, proteome, and expression analyses showed that MaPPO1 exhibits preferential expression in fruit tissue and is highly expressed at respiratory climacteric during fruit ripening. Other examined MaPPO genes were detectable in at least five different tissues. In mature green fruit tissue, MaPPO1 and MaPPO6 were the most abundant. Furthermore, MaPPO1 and MaPPO7 localized in chloroplasts, and MaPPO6 was a chloroplast- and Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)-localized protein, whereas MaPPO10 only localized in the ER. In addition, the enzyme activity in vivo and in vitro of the selected MaPPO protein showed that MaPPO1 had the highest PPO activity, followed by MaPPO6. These results imply that MaPPO1 and MaPPO6 are the main contributors to banana fruit browning and lay the foundation for the development of banana varieties with low fruit browning.
The day-of-week (DOW) effect on liberalism-conservatism: Evidence from a large-scale online survey in China
Authors: Ye Shengquan , So Justin Juk Man , Ng Ting Kin , Ma Mac Zewei
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Past research has shown that psychological states tend to fluctuate across the days of a week, which is referred to as the day-of-week (DOW) effect. This study investigated the DOW effect on liberalism-conservatism among Chinese people by testing two competing hypotheses. According to the cognitive states hypothesis, it was predicted that liberalism would be high on Mondays but gradually decrease to Fridays due to the depletion of cognitive resources over the weekdays. In contrast, the affective states hypothesis predicted the opposite, considering the more positive affect brought by the approaching weekends. Both hypotheses predicted the level of liberalism would peak at weekends.

Methods

Data (n = 171,830) were collected via an online questionnaire, the Chinese Political Compass (CPC) survey, which includes 50 items to measure people’ liberalism-conservatism in three domains (i.e., political, economic, and social).

Results

The results showed the level of liberalism decreased gradually from Mondays until Wednesdays, rebounded from Wednesdays to Fridays, and peaked at weekends.

Discussion

The V-shaped pattern suggested that the DOW fluctuation in liberalism-conservatism could derive from the synergy of both cognitive and affective processes, instead of either one alone. The findings have important implications for practice and policy-making, including the recent pilot scheme of 4-day workweek.
One data set, many analysts: Implications for practicing scientists
Authors: Kummerfeld Erich , Jones Galin L.
Published: February 2023

Researchers routinely face choices throughout the data analysis process. It is often opaque to readers how these choices are made, how they affect the findings, and whether or not data analysis results are unduly influenced by subjective decisions. This concern is spurring numerous investigations into the variability of data analysis results. The findings demonstrate that different teams analyzing the same data may reach different conclusions. This is the “many-analysts” problem. Previous research on the many-analysts problem focused on demonstrating its existence, without identifying specific practices for solving it. We address this gap by identifying three pitfalls that have contributed to the variability observed in many-analysts publications and providing suggestions on how to avoid them.
The underlying mechanism between compulsory citizenship behaviors and employee innovative work behaviors and knowledge sharing: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Abukhait Rawan , Khattak Mohammad Nisar , Shaya Nessrin , Ramanathan Usha
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This paper draws on conservation of resources theory to advance the literature on extra-role performance behaviors among academics, particularly innovative work behaviors and knowledge sharing, through the lens of work stressors.

Methods

We develop a moderated-mediated model based on multi-source, multi-timed, and multi-level data from a sample of 207 academics and 137 direct supervisors in five higher education institutions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Findings

Results show that academics’ compulsory citizenship behaviors positively influence negative affectivity, which, in turn, negatively impacts academics’ innovative work behavior and knowledge sharing. The detrimental effect of compulsory citizenship behaviors on negative affectivity is then positively moderated by passive leadership, which amplifies this relationship. The combined effect of compulsory citizenship behaviors and negative affectivity exerted on innovative work behavior and knowledge sharing are magnified amid the elevated presence of passive leadership, while gender does not significantly influence this association.

Originality

This is a pioneering study in the context of UAE to look into the counterproductive impact of CCB on employee innovative work behaviors and knowledge sharing.

Implications

Pertinent theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.
Review of the psychometric properties of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) Spanish version in a sample of Puerto Rican workers
Authors: Rosario-Hernández Ernesto , Rovira-Millán Lillian V. , Merino-Soto César , Angulo-Ramos Marisol
Published: February 2023

Background

This study aimed to examine the internal structure and assess the psychometric properties of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) in a Puerto Rican sample of workers. This instrument is a nine-item questionnaire, which was conceptualized as a unidimensional structure; however, there are mixed results regarding this internal structure. This measure is used in the occupational health psychology context in organizations in Puerto Rico; nevertheless, there is little evidence of its psychometric properties with samples of workers.

Materials and methods

A total of 955 samples from two different study samples were used in this cross-sectional study design in which the PHQ-9 was used. We conducted confirmatory factor analysis, bifactor analysis, and random intercept item factor analysis to examine the internal structure of the PHQ-9. Moreover, a two-factor model was examined by randomly assigning items to the two factors. Measurement invariance across sex and the relationship with other constructs were examined.

Results

The best-fitted model was the bifactor model followed by the random intercept item factor. The five sets of two-factor models with items randomly assigned obtained acceptable and similar fit indices regardless of the items.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the PHQ-9 appears to be a reliable and valid instrument to measure depression. The more parsimonious interpretation of its scores, for now, is a unidimensional structure. Comparison across sex appears to be useful in occupational health psychology research settings since the results suggest that the PHQ-9 is invariant regarding this variable.
Sex differences in factors influencing hospital-acquired pneumonia in schizophrenia patients receiving modified electroconvulsive therapy
Authors: Yang Mi , Yang Yan , Liu Liju , Kong Di , Xu Min , Huang Xincheng , Luo Cheng , Zhao Guocheng , Zhang Xiangyang , Huang Yan , Tu Yunzhong , Li Zezhi
Published: February 2023

Background

Sex differences may be presented in the clinical features or symptoms of schizophrenia patients but also affect the occurrence of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). Modified electroconvulsive therapy (mECT) is a common treatment method for schizophrenia, used in combination with antipsychotics. This retrospective research explores the sex difference in HAP affecting patients with schizophrenia who have received mECT treatment during hospitalization.

Methods

We included schizophrenia inpatients treated with mECT and antipsychotics between January 2015 and April 2022. Blood-related and demographic data collected on admission were analyzed. Influencing factors of HAP in male and female groups were assessed separately.

Results

A total of 951 schizophrenia patients treated with mECT were enrolled in the study, including 375 males and 576 females, of which 62 patients experienced HAP during hospitalization. The risk period of HAP in these patients was found to be the first day after each mECT treatment and the first three sessions of mECT treatment. Statistically significant differences in the incidence of HAP were identified in male vs. female groups, with an incidence in men about 2.3 times higher than that in women (P < 0.001). Lower total cholesterol (Z = −2.147, P = 0.032) and the use of anti-parkinsonian drugs (χ2 = 17.973, P < 0.001) were found to be independent risk factors of HAP in male patients, while lower lymphocyte count (Z = −2.408, P = 0.016), hypertension (χ2 = 9.096, P = 0.003), and use of sedative-hypnotic drugs (χ2 = 13.636, P < 0.001) were identified in female patients.

Conclusion

Influencing factors of HAP in schizophrenia patients treated with mECT have gender differences. The first day after each mECT treatment and the first three sessions of mECT treatment were identified to have the greatest risk for HAP development. Therefore, it would be imperative to monitor clinical management and medications during this period according to these gender differences.
A multilevel analysis of improved drinking water sources and sanitation facilities in Ethiopia: Using 2019 Ethiopia mini demographic and health survey
Authors: Azanaw Jember , Abera Eshetu , Malede Asmamaw , Endalew Mastewal
Published: February 2023

Background

Access to water, sanitation, and hygiene is an important element for communicable disease control including the existing COVID-19 pandemic. This is due to the growing water demand and decreasing water availability, because of shrinking resources, increased urbanization, and pollution. This problem is higher, particularly among least developed countries like Ethiopia. This study, therefore, aimed at investigating the level of improved water sources and sanitation as well as their predictors in Ethiopia using EMDHS-2019.

Method

Mini Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys 2019 database survey was used in this study. Data collection took place over 3 months, from 21 March 2019 to 28 June 2019. A total of 9,150 households were selected for the sample, of which 8,794 were engaged. Among involved households, 8,663 were successfully interviewed at a response rate of 99%. The dependent variables measured in this study were improved drinking water sources and sanitation facilities. Due to the nested nature of DHS data, multilevel binary logistic regression analysis was done using Stata-16.

Results

The majority (72.62%) of household heads were men, and 69.47% of participants were from rural areas. Close to half (47.65%) of study participants did not have any form of formal education, while the lowest proportion (9.89%) of them had higher education. Approximately 71.74 and 27.45% of the households have accessed improved water sources and sanitation, respectively. Based on the final model results, wealth index, educational status, and having a television individual-level variables while community-level poverty, community-level education, community-level media exposure, and place of residence were statistically significant predictors of getting improved water source and sanitation.

Conclusion

The level of access to improved water sources is moderate but it lacks progress, while access to improved sanitation was lower. Based on these findings, great improvements should be made in providing access to an improved water source and sanitation facilities in Ethiopia. Based on these findings, great improvements should be made in providing access to improved water source and sanitation facilities in Ethiopia.
The impact of crying, sleeping, and eating problems in infants on childhood behavioral outcomes: A meta-analysis
Authors: Galling Britta , Brauer Hannah , Struck Pia , Krogmann Amanda , Gross-Hemmi Mirja , Prehn-Kristensen Alexander , Mudra Susanne
Published: February 2023

Background

There is increasing evidence that regulatory problems (RPs), such as excessive crying, sleeping or feeding problems in infancy, could be associated with the development of behavioral problems in childhood. In this meta-analysis we aimed to investigate the strength and characteristics of this association.

Methods

A systematic literature search (PubMed/PsycInfo, until 15/08/2021) for longitudinal prospective studies of infants with RPs and at least one follow-up assessment reporting incidence and/or severity of behavioral problems was conducted. The primary outcomes were (i) the cumulative incidence of behavioral problems in children (2–14 years) with previous RPs and (ii) the difference between children with/without previous RPs with regard to the incidence and severity of externalizing, internalizing and/or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. Additionally, we analyzed behavioral problems of children with previous single, multiple or no RPs and with respect to age at follow-up. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were added.

Results

30 meta-analyzed studies reported on 34,582 participants (nRP = 5091, ncontrol = 29,491; age: baseline = 6.5 ± 4.5 months, follow-up = 5.5 ± 2.8 years) with excessive crying (studies = 13, n = 1577), sleeping problems (studies = 9, n = 2014), eating problems (studies = 3, n = 105), any single (studies = 2, n = 201) or multiple RPs (studies = 9, n = 1194). The cumulative incidence for behavioral problems during childhood was 23.3% in children with RPs. Behavioral problems were significantly more pronounced in infants with RPs compared to healthy controls (SMD = 0.381, 95% CI = 0.296–0.466, p < .001), particularly with multiple RPs (SMD = 0.291, p = 0.018).

Conclusions

Findings suggest that RPs in infancy are associated with overall behavioral problems (externalizing or internalizing behavior and ADHD symptoms) in childhood. Our data cannot explain linked developmental trajectories and underlying factors. However, detection of affected infants may help to adapt supportive measures to the individual familial needs to promote the parent-child-relationship and prevent the development of child behavioral problems from early on.
In meeting the increasing demands for total knee arthroplasty, can we achieve high levels of quality care in a small community hospital? A mixed-methods study
Authors: Sanders Ethan B. , Dobransky Johanna S. , Chen Brian P. , Bodrogi Andrew W. ,   on behalf of Ottawa Arthroplasty Group, Beaulé Paul E. , Poitras Stéphane
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Small community hospitals (SCHs) help meet the demand for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This mixed-methods study compares outcomes and analyses of environmental differences following TKA at a SCH and a tertiary care hospital (TCH).

Methods

Quantitative: A retrospective review of 352 propensity-matched primary TKA procedures at both a SCH and a TCH, based on age, body mass index, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class, was completed. Groups were compared by length of stay (LOS), 90-day emergency department visits, 90-day readmissions, reoperations, and mortality. Qualitative: Based on the Theoretical Domains Framework, seven prospective semistructured interviews were performed. Interview transcripts were coded and belief statements were generated and summarized by two reviewers. Discrepancies were resolved by a third reviewer.

Results

Quantitative: The average LOS for the SCH was significantly shorter than that for the TCH (2.0 ± 0.2 vs. 3.6 ± 2.7 days; p < 0.001), a difference that persisted following a subgroup analysis of ASA I/II patients (2.0 ± 0.2 vs. 3.2 ± 2.2; p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in other outcomes. Qualitative: The main themes that revolved around a higher case load for physiotherapy at the TCH resulted in patients waiting longer to be mobilized after surgery. Patient disposition also affected their discharge rates.

Conclusion

Given the increasing demand for TKA, the SCH represents a viable option to increase capacity, while reducing LOS. Future directions to reduce LOS include addressing social barriers to discharge and patient prioritization for assessment by allied health services. When TKA is performed by the same set of surgeons, the SCH provides quality care with a shorter LOS and comparable with urban hospitals, and this can be attributed to the differences in resource utilization in the two hospital settings.
The Effect of Language on Access to Timely COVID-19 Vaccination of Solid Abdominal Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: de Crescenzo Claire M. , Chen Ya-Wen , Chang David C. , Yeh Heidi
Published: February 2023

In dynamic healthcare environments including the COVID-19 pandemic, it is paramount to communicate health recommendations expediently and clearly. Research has shown social determinants of health affect the impact of COVID-19 on abdominal transplant recipients, but there has been less research on the effect of language proficiency. This is a cohort study of time to first COVID-19 vaccination among abdominal organ transplant recipients in an academic medical center in Boston, MA between 18 December 2020, and 15 February 2021. Cox proportional hazards analysis of time to vaccination by preferred language were adjusted for race, age group, insurance, and transplanted organ. Among 3001 patients, 53% were vaccinated during the study period. Language preference other than English was independently associated with delay to vaccination (0.64, p = 0.001), on adjusted analysis. In addition, Black, Hispanic and other race patients were less likely to be vaccinated than white patients (0.58, 0.67, 0.68 vs. reference, all p < 0.03). Language preference other than English is an independent barrier to solid abdominal organ transplant recipients’ access to timely COVID-19 vaccination. Equity in care should be improved by providing targeted services to minority language speakers.