bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shear-induced vorticity aligned flocs in a temperature responsive colloid-polymer mixture
Authors: Rel Ryle , Terwilliger Dennis , McGorty Ryan
Published: September 2022

Shear driven patterning is seen in many soft matter systems. We use rheology and optical microscopy to probe the structures formed when we shear a colloid-polymer mixture containing temperature-sensitive microgel particles. By increasing the temperature, we can increase the particle attraction and transition from liquid-like to gel-like behavior. And by applying shear flow to the sample as the temperature and, hence, state of the system changes, we can affect the morphology of mesoscopic colloidal clusters. We can produce gels comprised of fibrous, elongated colloid-dense clusters, or we can form more isotropic clusters. The rheology is measured and shear-induced flocculation observed for colloid-polymer systems with different cluster morphologies. At shear rates high enough to produce elongated clusters but low enough to not break clusters apart, we observe log-like flocs that are aligned with the vorticity direction and roll between the parallel plates of our rheometer.
Enhancement of the two-photon blockade effect via Van der Waals interaction
Authors: Hou Kui , Zhang Zhendong , Zhu Chengjie , Yang Yaping
Published: September 2022

We theoretically investigate the influence of the Van der Waals interaction on the two-photon blockade phenomenon with the corresponding photon correlation functions g(2)(0) > 1 and g(3)(0) < 1 in a two-atom cavity-QED system, where two three-level ladder-type atoms are coherently driven by a pumping field and a coupling field simultaneously. Choosing a specific frequency of the coupling field, we show the energy splitting phenomenon caused by electromagnetically induced transparency. Correspondingly, the two-photon blockade phenomenon can be achieved near the two-photon resonant frequency. Using the Van der Waals interaction between the Rydberg states of the two atoms, we also show that the two-photon blockade can be improved when two atoms radiate in-phase or out-of-phase. As a result, two photons leak from the cavity simultaneously, but the third photon is blockaded. These results presented in this study hold potential applications in manipulating photon states and generating nonclassical light sources.
HCV and tumor-initiating stem-like cells
Authors: Machida Keigo
Published: September 2022

Neoplasms contain tumor-initiating stem-like cells (TICs) that are characterized by increased drug resistance. The incidence of many cancer types have trended downward except for few cancer types, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore mechanism of HCC development and therapy resistance needs to be understood. These multiple hits by hepatitis C virus (HCV) eventually promotes transformation and TIC genesis, leading to HCC development. This review article describes links between HCV-associated HCC and TICs. This review discusses 1) how HCV promotes genesis of TICs and HCC development; 2) how this process avails itself as a novel therapeutic target for HCC treatment; and 3) ten hall marks of TIC oncogenesis and HCC development as targets for novel therapeutic modalities.
Serum neuregulin 4 is negatively correlated with insulin sensitivity in humans and impairs mitochondrial respiration in HepG2 cells
Authors: Martínez Cristina , Latorre Jèssica , Ortega Francisco , Arnoriaga-Rodríguez María , Lluch Aina , Oliveras-Cañellas Núria , Díaz-Sáez Francisco , Aragonés Julian , Camps Marta , Gumà Anna , Ricart Wifredo , Fernández-Real José Manuel , Moreno-Navarrete José María
Published: September 2022

Neuregulin 4 (NRG4) has been described to improve metabolic disturbances linked to obesity status in rodent models. The findings in humans are controversial. We aimed to investigate circulating NRG4 in association with insulin action in humans and the possible mechanisms involved. Insulin sensitivity (euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp) and serum NRG4 concentration (ELISA) were analysed in subjects with a wide range of adiposity (n = 89). In vitro experiments with human HepG2 cell line were also performed. Serum NRG4 was negatively correlated with insulin sensitivity (r = −0.25, p = 0.02) and positively with the inflammatory marker high-sensitivity C reative protein (hsCRP). In fact, multivariant linear regression analyses showed that insulin sensitivity contributed to BMI-, age-, sex-, and hsCRP-adjusted 7.2% of the variance in serum NRG4 (p = 0.01). No significant associations were found with adiposity measures (BMI, waist circumference or fat mass), plasma lipids (HDL-, LDL-cholesterol, or fasting triglycerides) or markers of liver injury. Cultured hepatocyte HepG2 treated with human recombinant NRG4 had an impact on hepatocyte metabolism, leading to decreased gluconeogenic- and mitochondrial biogenesis-related gene expression, and reduced mitochondrial respiration, without effects on expression of lipid metabolism-related genes. Similar but more pronounced effects were found after neuregulin 1 administration. In conclusion, sustained higher serum levels of neuregulin-4, observed in insulin resistant patients may have deleterious effects on metabolic and mitochondrial function in hepatocytes. However, findings from in vitro experiments should be confirmed in human primary hepatocytes.
Long-term follow-up results of patients with left bundle branch pacing and exploration for potential factors affecting cardiac function
Authors: Hu Qingyun , Lu Wenzhao , Chen Keping , Dai Yan , Lin Jinxuan , Xu Nan , Lin Jingru , Chen Ruohan , Li Yao , Cheng Chendi , Zhou Yu’an , Zhang Shu
Published: September 2022

Background: Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) is an alternative strategy for His bundle pacing (HBP). This study aimed to analyze the long-term performance of LBBP and the potential factors affecting long-term cardiac function.

Methods: Patients with LBBP were continuously enrolled from January 2018 to August 2020. Pacing parameters, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echocardiography were collected. The anatomic position of LBBP leads was described by echocardiographic and fluoroscopic parameters.

Results: A total of 91 patients with a median follow-up of 18 months were enrolled. Most patients maintained stable pacing parameters during follow-up. The intra-septal position of the 3830 lead also remained stable as the distance from the lead tip to the left surface of the ventricular septum was 0.4 (0, 1.4) mm. The overall level of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) slightly increased. 59 patients had improved LVEF (∆LVEF > 0), while 28 patients had unchanged or reduced LVEF (∆LVEF ≤ 0). The declines of baseline LVEF, ∆ Paced QRSd, and corrected longitudinal distance (longit-dist) of lead-implanted site correlated with LVEF improvement, and these three factors had negative linear correlations with ∆LVEF. Patients with tricuspid valve regurgitation (TVR) deterioration had longer follow-up duration (20.5 vs. 15.0 months, p = 0.01) and shorter Lead-TVA-dist (18.6 vs. 21.6 mm, p = 0.04) than those without TVR deterioration.

Conclusion: Patients with LBBP generally remained stable in pacing performance, anatomic lead positions, and cardiac function in long-term follow-up. Baseline LVEF, ∆ Paced QRSd, and corrected longit-dist might be associated with potential LVEF decrease, which required further confirmation.
Host plant resistance, foliar insecticide application and natural enemies play a role in the management of Melanaphis sorghi (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in grain sorghum
Authors: Uyi Osariyekemwen , Lahiri Sriyanka , Ni Xinzhi , Buntin David , Jacobson Alana , Reay-Jones Francis P. F. , Punnuri Somashekhar , Huseth Anders S. , Toews Michael D.
Published: September 2022

The invasive Melanaphis sorghi (Theobald; =Melanaphis sacchari Zehntner) is a serious pest of sorghum production in the southern USA. Demonstration of technologies that provide effective control is key to management of this pest. Here, we investigated the effect of host plant resistance (resistant cultivar: DKS37-07 and susceptible cultivar: DKS53-53) and a single foliar insecticide (flupyradifurone: Sivanto Prime) application on M. sorghi infestations and the role of natural enemy populations in grain sorghum production across five locations in four states in southeastern USA. Foliar insecticide application significantly suppressed M. sorghi infestations on both the resistant and susceptible sorghum cultivars across all locations. Planting the host plant resistant cultivar (DKS37-07) significantly reduced aphid infestation across all locations. Plant damage ratings did not vary widely, but there was generally a positive association between aphid counts and observed plant damage, suggesting that increasing aphid numbers resulted in corresponding increase in plant damage. Planting a host plant resistant cultivar and foliar insecticide application generally preserved grain yield. Both sorghum hybrids supported an array of different life stages of natural enemies (predators [lady beetle larvae and adults; hoverfly larvae and lacewing larvae] and parasitoids [a braconid and aphelinid]) for both the sprayed and non-sprayed treatments. We found a strong and significant positive relationship between the natural enemies and the M. sorghi infestation. Results suggest that planting a host plant resistant cultivar and the integration of natural enemies with insecticide control methods in the management of M. sorghi is central to the development of an effective pest management strategy against this invasive pest.
Proteomic analysis response of rice (Oryza sativa) leaves to ultraviolet-B radiation stress
Authors: Sah Saroj Kumar , Jumaa Salah , Li Jiaxu , Reddy K. Raja
Published: September 2022

Rice (Oryza sativa) is a human staple food and serves as a model organism for genetic and molecular studies. Few studies have been conducted to determine the effects of ultraviolet-B (UV-B) stress on rice. UV-B stress triggers morphological and physiological changes in plants. However, the underlying mechanisms governing these integrated responses are unknown. In this study, we conducted a proteomic response of rice leaves to UV-B stress using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and identified the selected proteins by mass spectrometry analysis. Four levels of daily biologically effective UV-B radiation intensities were imposed to determine changes in protein accumulation in response to UV-B stress: 0 (control), 5, 10, and 15 kJ m−2 d−1in two cultivars, i.e., IR6 and REX. To mimic the natural environment, we conducted this experiment in Sunlit Soil-Plant-Atmosphere-Research (SPAR) chambers. Among the identified proteins, 11% of differentially expressed proteins were found in both cultivars. In the Rex cultivar, only 45% of proteins are differentially expressed, while only 27.5% were expressed in IR6. The results indicate that REX is more affected by UV-B stress than IR6 cultivars. The identified protein TSJT1 (spot 16) in both cultivars plays a crucial role in plant growth and development during stress treatment. Additionally, we found that UV-B stress altered many antioxidant enzymes associated with redox homeostasis and cell defense response. Another enzyme, the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), has been identified as spot 15, which plays an essential role in glycolysis and cellular energy production. Another vital protein identified is glycosyl hydrolase (GH) as spot 9, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds in cell wall polymers and significantly affects cell wall architecture. Some identified proteins are related to photosynthesis, protein biosynthesis, signal transduction, and stress response. The findings of our study provide new insights into understanding how rice plants are tailored to UV-B stress via modulating the expression of UV-B responsive proteins, which will help develop superior rice breeds in the future to combat UV-B stress. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD032163.
Integrative metabolome and transcriptome analyses reveal the molecular mechanism underlying variation in floral scent during flower development of Chrysanthemum indicum var. aromaticum
Authors: Zhu Lu , Liao Jiahao , Liu Yifei , Zhou Chunmiao , Wang Xu , Hu Zhigang , Huang Bisheng , Zhang Jingjing
Published: September 2022

Chrysanthemum indicum var. aromaticum (CIA) is an endemic plant that occurs only in the high mountain areas of the Shennongjia Forest District in China. The whole plant, in particular the flowers of CIA, have intense fragrance, making it a novel resource plant for agricultural, medicinal, and industrial applications. However, the volatile metabolite emissions in relation to CIA flower development and the molecular mechanisms underlying the generation of floral scent remain poorly understood. Here, integrative metabolome and transcriptome analyses were performed to investigate floral scent-related volatile compounds and genes in CIA flowers at three different developmental stages. A total of 370 volatile metabolites, mainly terpenoids and esters, were identified, of which 89 key differential metabolites exhibited variable emitting profiles during flower development. Transcriptome analysis further identified 8,945 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between these samples derived from different flower developmental stages and KEGG enrichment analyses showed that 45, 93, and 101 candidate DEGs associated with the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids, esters, and terpenes, respectively. Interestingly, significant DEGs involved into the volatile terpenes are only present in the MEP and its downstream pathways, including those genes encoding ISPE, ISPG, FPPS, GPPS, GERD, ND and TPS14 enzymes. Further analysis showed that 20 transcription factors from MYB, bHLH, AP2/EFR, and WRKY families were potentially key regulators affecting the expressions of floral scent-related genes during the CIA flower development. These findings provide insights into the molecular basis of plant floral scent metabolite biosynthesis and serve as an important data resources for molecular breeding and utilization of CIA plants in the future.
Investigation of genetic factors regulating chlorophyll and carotenoid biosynthesis in red pepper fruit
Authors: Jang Siyoung , Kim Geon Woo , Han Koeun , Kim Young Min , Jo Jinkwan , Lee Seo-Young , Kwon Jin-Kyung , Kang Byoung-Cheorl
Published: September 2022

Chlorophylls and carotenoids are synthesized in the chloroplast and chromoplast, respectively. Even though the two pigments are generated from the same precursor, the genetic correlation between chlorophyll and carotenoid biosynthesis has not yet been fully understood. We investigated the genetic correlation of chlorophyll and carotenoid biosynthesis during fruit ripening. Two recombinant inbred lines populations, “Long Sweet” × “AC2212” (“LA”) RILs derived from a cross between Capsicum annuum “Long Sweet” with light-green and light-red fruit and C. annuum “AC2212” with dark-green and brown-fruit and “3501 (F)” × “3509 (C)” (“FC”) RILs from C. annuum “3501” with dark-green and dark-red fruit and C. annuum “3509” with intermediate green and light-red fruit, were used. As the fruit ripened, three accessions produced high levels of xanthophyll. The dark-green immature fruit accumulated more total carotenoids than the light-green fruit. This trend corresponded to the expression pattern of 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase (DXS) and CaGLK2 genes during fruit development. The expression levels of DXS and CaGLK2 in the dark-green accession “3501” were significantly higher than those of “3509” and “Long Sweet” during the early stages of fruit development. Furthermore, the genotype analysis of the transcription factor controlling chloroplast development (CaGLK2) in LA RILs revealed that CaGLK2 expression affected both carotenoid and chlorophyll contents. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) linkage maps were constructed using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) for the two populations, and QTL analysis was performed for green fruit color intensity and carotenoid content. The QTL (LA_BG-CST10) for capsanthin content in LA RILs located at 24.4 to 100.4 Mbp on chromosome 10 was overlapped with the QTL (FC15-Cap10) for capsanthin content in FC RILs. Three QTLs for capsanthin content, American spice trade association (ASTA) value, and immature green fruit color intensity were also overlapped from 178.2 to 204 Mbp on chromosome 10. At the location, 151.6 to 165 Mbp on chromosome 8, QTLs (FC15-tcar8, FC17-ASTA8.1, and FC17-ASTA8.2) for total carotenoid content and ASTA value were discovered, and this region contained 2-C-methyl-d-erythritol 4-phosphate cytidylyltransferase (MCT), which is involved in the MEP pathway. This result is the first report to show the correlation between carotenoid and chlorophyll biosynthesis in pepper. This research will expand our understanding of the mechanism of the chloroplast-to-chromoplast transition and the development of high pigment pepper varieties.
Contrasting water-use patterns of Chinese fir among different plantation types in a subtropical region of China
Authors: Zhang Ying , Xu Qing , Zhang Beibei , Gao Deqiang , Wang Ting , Xu Wenbin , Ren Ranran , Wang Silong
Published: September 2022

Plantation cultivation plays an important role in improving terrestrial ecosystem functions and services. Understanding the water-use patterns of major afforestation species is vital for formulating ecological restoration strategies and predicting the response of plantation to climate change. However, the impacts and drivers of forest types on water-use patterns of key tree species are poorly understood. Here, the combined methods of dual stable isotope of δD and δ18O and Bayesian mixed framework (MixSIAR) were employed to investigate the water-use patterns of Cunninghamia lanceolata (Chinese fir) in a monoculture, mixed forest with Cinnamomum camphora, and mixed forest with Alnus cremastogyne under different rainfall events in subtropical China. Furthermore, the relative contribution of different soil and plant factors to the water-use patterns of Chinese fir was quantified using a random forest model. Our results showed that Chinese fir in the mixed forests (with C. camphora or with A. cremastogyne) utilized less water from shallow soil compared to that in a monoculture but significantly improved the proportion of water absorbed from deep soil with the increase of 55.57%–64.90% and 68.99%–108.83% following moderate and heavy rainfall events, respectively. The most important factors contributing to the differences in water-use patterns of Chinese fir among monoculture and mixed forests were tree attributes (i.e., leaf biomass, eco-physiological regulation, and fine root biomass). These findings reveal that Chinese fir in mixed forests could optimize water-use patterns by adjusting plant properties for interspecific niche complementarity, improving the utilization of deep soil water. Overall, this study suggests that mixed-species plantations could improve water-use efficiency and reduce the sensitivity of tree species to precipitation change, indicating they are better able to cope with expected climate variability.
Double zero-tillage and foliar-P nutrition coupled with bio-inoculants enhance physiological photosynthetic characteristics and resilience to nutritional and environmental stresses in maize–wheat rotation
Authors: Harish M. N. , Choudhary Anil K. , Bhupenchandra Ingudam , Dass Anchal , Rajanna G. A. , Singh Vinod K. , Bana R. S. , Varatharajan T. , Verma Parkash , George Saju , Kashinath G. T. , Bhavya M. , Chongtham S. K. , Devi E. Lamalakshmi , Kumar Sushil , Devi Soibam Helena , Bhutia Tshering Lhamu
Published: September 2022

Conventionally tilled maize–wheat cropping system (MWCS) is an emerging cereal production system in semi-arid region of south-Asia. This system involves excessive tillage operations that result in numerous resource- and production-vulnerabilities besides impeding environmental-stresses. Likewise, phosphorus is a vital nutrient that limits crop growth and development. It’s a matter of great concern when ∼80% of Indian soils are low to medium in available-P due to its sparing solubility, resulting in crop stress and low yields. Hence, crop productivity, photosynthetic parameters and resilience to nutritional and environmental stresses were assessed in a MWCS using four crop-establishment and tillage management (CETM) practices [FBCT-FBCT (Flat bed-conventional tillage both in maize and wheat); RBCT-RBZT (Raised bed-CT in maize and raised bed-zero tillage in wheat); FBZT-FBZT (FBZT both in maize and wheat); PRBZT-PRBZT (Permanent raised bed-ZT both in maize and wheat)], and five P-fertilization practices [P100(100% soil applied-P); P50+2FSP (50% soil applied-P + 2 foliar-sprays of P through 2% DAP both in maize and wheat); P50+PSB+AM-fungi; P50+PSB+AMF+2FSP; and P0(100% NK with no-P)] in split-plot design replicated-thrice. The results indicated that double zero-tilled PRBZT–PRBZT system significantly enhanced the grain yield (6.1; 5.4 t ha–1), net photosynthetic rate (Pn) (41.68; 23.33 μ mol CO2m–2s–1), stomatal conductance (SC) (0.44; 0.26 mol H2O m–2s–1), relative water content (RWC) (83.3; 77.8%), and radiation-use efficiency (RUE) (2.9; 2.36 g MJ–1) by 12.8–15.8 and 8.5–44.4% in maize and wheat crops, respectively over conventional tilled FBCT–FBCT. P50+PSB+AMF+2FSP conjugating soil applied-P, microbial-inoculants and foliar-P, had significantly higher Pn, SC, RUE and RWC over P100besides saving ∼34.7% fertilizer-P under MWCS. P50+PSB+AMF+2FSP practice also had higher NDVI, PAR, transpiration efficiency and PHI over P100. Whereas lower stomatal limitation index (Ls) was observed under PRBZT–PRBZT system as compared to the conventional FBCT–FBCT system indicating that P is the limiting factor but not stomata. Hence, optimum P supply through foliar P-fertilization along with other sources resulted in higher grain yield by 21.4% over control. Overall, double zero-tilled PRBZT–PRBZT with crop residue retention at 6 t/ha per year, as well as P50+PSB+AMF+2FSP in MWCS, may prove beneficial in enhancing the crop productivity and, thereby, bolstering food security in semi-arid south-Asia region.
Co-overexpression of AtSAT1 and EcPAPR improves seed nutritional value in maize
Authors: Xiang Xiaoli , Hu Binhua , Pu Zhigang , Wang Lanying , Leustek Thomas , Li Changsheng
Published: September 2022

Maize seeds synthesize insufficient levels of the essential amino acid methionine (Met) to support animal and livestock growth. Serine acetyltransferase1 (SAT1) and 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate reductase (PAPR) are key control points for sulfur assimilation into Cys and Met biosynthesis. Two high-MET maize lines pRbcS:AtSAT1 and pRbcS:EcPAPR were obtained through metabolic engineering recently, and their total Met was increased by 1.4- and 1.57-fold, respectively, compared to the wild type. The highest Met maize line, pRbcS:AtSAT1-pRbcS:EcPAPR, was created by stacking the two transgenes, causing total Met to increase 2.24-fold. However, the pRbcS:AtSAT1-pRbcS:EcPAPR plants displayed progressively severe defects in plant growth, including early senescence, stunting, and dwarfing, indicating that excessive sulfur assimilation has an adverse effect on plant development. To explore the mechanism of correlation between Met biosynthesis in maize leaves and storage proteins in developing endosperm, the transcriptomes of the sixth leaf at stage V9 and 18 DAP endosperm of pRbcS:AtSAT1, pRbcS:AtSAT1-pRbcS:EcPAPR, and the null segregants were quantified and analyzed. In pRbcS:AtSAT1-pRbcS:EcPAPR, 3274 genes in leaves (1505 up- and 1769 downregulated) and 679 genes in the endosperm (327 up- and 352 downregulated) were differentially expressed. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG (Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes) analyses revealed that many genes were associated with Met homeostasis, including transcription factors and genes involved in cysteine and Met metabolism, glutathione metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, and oxidation–reduction. The data from gene network analysis demonstrated that two genes, serine/threonine-protein kinase (CCR3) and heat shock 70 kDa protein (HSP), were localized in the core of the leaves and endosperm regulation networks, respectively. The results of this study provide insights into the diverse mechanisms that underlie the ideal establishment of enhanced Met levels in maize seeds.
Processing and acquisition of temporality in L2 Mandarin Chinese: Effects of grammatical and lexical aspects
Authors: Fang Shaohua , Xu Yi
Published: September 2022

This study investigated the second language (L2) processing and acquisition of Chinese temporality, specifically the interaction of grammatical and lexical aspects. An experimental group of 31 English-speaking learners of Chinese and a control group of 29 native speakers of Mandarin Chinese completed an online sentence-picture matching task and an offline translation task. Results from these experiments demonstrated the prototype effect: In aspectual development, perfective aspect started with telic verbs and progressive aspect started with activity verbs, in accordance with the Aspect Hypothesis, both for online processing and offline comprehension. The prototype effect of the grammatical aspect was evident for activity verbs but less so for accomplishment verbs in the L2 group across tasks, and this was explained through language-specific properties and L2 learners’ instructional input. In addition, L2 proficiency and working memory capacity were found to modulate these processes.
Unsettling experiences: A qualitative inquiry into young peoples’ narratives of diagnosis for common skin conditions in the United Kingdom
Authors: McNiven Abigail , Ryan Sara
Published: September 2022

Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis are relatively prevalent health concerns in children, adolescents and young adults. Experiences of these dermatology diagnoses in adolescence have hitherto not been the focus of research, perhaps owing to assumptions that these diagnoses are not particularly impactful or intricate processes, events or labels. We draw on a thematic secondary analysis of in-depth interviews with 42 adolescents and young people living in the United Kingdom and, influenced by the sociologies of diagnosis and time, highlight the psychological, emotional, social and temporal complexities involved in their diagnosis experiences. Firstly, we describe how participants remembered, re- and co-constructed their diagnosis experiences during the interview. Secondly, we explore the pace and rhythm of diagnosis, including mis-diagnoses, highlighting the jarring potential for adolescents on being diagnosed, even for conditions typically deemed minor. Thirdly, we consider the ways in which these diagnoses have the capacity to reformulate notions of past, present and future, including projecting into imagined futures and reinterpreting past bodily sensations. Finally, we examine how memories about and the meaning of diagnosis are revisited, revised and potentially replaced as a child or adolescent grows older, and increases their management of their condition and encounters with healthcare professionals. In unsettling an assumption that diagnosis experiences for adolescents of common skin conditions is unproblematic or straightforward, our qualitative analysis critically engages with and contribute to tenets of health research that are of interest to quantitative and qualitative researchers, clinicians and patients.
Revisiting English as a foreign language teachers’ professional identity and commitment in social media-focused professional development
Authors: Ping Wenjiang
Published: September 2022

These days, technology advancement has inspired a large number of educators to employ social media in the English as a foreign language (EFL) context. But, some EFL educators are yet unwilling to use such chances, because they are left untrained. Therefore, applying professional development (PD) in this field appears necessary as it is regarded as the main cause of improving educators’ education activity, and proposing new education approaches. To strengthen the academic investment in educators’ professional learning, comprehending elements affecting educators’ performance of learning from PD is vital. Lower commitment degrees were specified as an element that impedes EFL educators from employing social media in EFL education. Moreover, developing the professional identity (PI) of educators is an important issue that straightly pertains to educators’ performance, which assists educators both in comprehending their professional lives and presenting them with a framework to elucidate, expand and contemplate their professional activities. Stimulated by the interest in research on social media-focused courses, this review inspects how teachers’ commitment and identity affect EFL teachers’ implementation of social media in PD. In a nutshell, implications for stakeholders of the study are presented. Indeed, the social media as an impotent device should be incorporated in PD programs to develop both teachers’ commitment and identity. Faculty members should establish workshops, and seminars to arrange for a platform for teachers to use social media to support learning.
A case study on the use of Public Narrative as a leadership development approach for Patient Leaders in the English National Health Service
Authors: Aiello Emilia , Perera Kathryn , Ade Mo , Sordé-Martí Teresa
Published: September 2022

Background

In 2016 the National Health Service (NHS) England embraced the commitment to work for maternity services to become safer, more personalized, kinder, professional and more family-friendly. Achieving this involves including a service users' organizations to co-lead and deliver the services. This article explores how Public Narrative, a framework for leadership development used across geographical and cultural settings worldwide, can enhance the confidence, capability and skills of service-user representatives (or Patient Leaders) in the National Health Service (NHS) in England. Specifically, we analyse a pilot initiative conducted with one cohort of Patient Leaders, the Chairs of local Maternity Voices Partnerships (MVPs), and how they have used Public Narrative to enhance their effectiveness in leading transformation in maternity services as part of the NHS Maternity Transformation Programme.

Methods

Qualitative two-phase case study of a pilot training and coaching initiative using Public Narrative with a cohort of MVP Chairs. Phase 1 consisted of a 6-month period, during which the standard framework was adapted in co-design with the MVP Chairs. A core MVP Chair Co-Design Group underwent initial training and follow-up coaching in Public Narrative. Phase 2 consisted of qualitative data collection and data analysis.

Results

The study of this pilot initiative suggests two main ways in which Public Narrative can enhance the effectiveness of Patient Leaders in service improvement in general and maternity services in specific. First, training and coaching in the Public Narrative framework enables Patient Leaders to gain insight into, articulate and then craft their lived experience of healthcare services in a way that connects with and activates the underlying values of others (“shared purpose”), such that those experiences become an emotional resource on which Patient Leaders can draw to influence future service design and decision-making processes. Second, Public Narrative provides a simple and compelling structure through which Patient Leaders can enhance their skills, confidence and capability as “healthcare leaders,” both individually and collectively.

Conclusions

The Public Narrative framework can significantly enhance the confidence, capability and skills of Patient Leaders, both to identify and coalesce around shared purpose and to advance genuine co-production in the design and improvement of healthcare services in general and maternity services in specific.
Adherence and retention to the self-managed community-based Step Into Health program in Qatar (2012–2019)
Authors: Chrismas Bryna C. R. , Majed Lina , Al-Mohannadi Abdulla Saeed , Sayegh Suzan
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Investigate adherence and retention to the “Step Into Health (SIH)” initiative (www.stepintohealth.qa [website access only available from within the State of Qatar]), a Qatari self-managed community-based health program, from 2012 to 2019.

Methods

Participants (16,711; 16–80 years; 37% females, 34% Qatari) used a pedometer or smartphone application (app) to measure step count. Absolute adherence (ADH) and retention (RET) were calculated, with ADH (%) the ratio between number of days data and SIH enrollment length (RET). Linear Mixed Models identified differences in ADH between RET groups, main effects (i.e., sex, device, age, BMI, nationality) and interaction effects for ADH (RET entered as a covariate).

Results

Average ADH and RET to SIH (irrespective of sex, age, device and BMI) was 50% (±31%), and 16% (±20%), respectively, with ADH differing significantly between RET groups (F = 460.2, p < 0.001). RET (as a covariate) revealed a significant main effect for device (F = 12.00, p < 0.001) and age (F = 4.31, p = 0.001) on ADH observed. There was a significant association between RET and sex (p < 0.001), device (p < 0.001), and age groups 16–25 y (p < 0.001), and 26–35 y (p < 0.001). There were no significant main effects for sex or BMI on ADH, and no interaction effects (p ≥ 0.21) observed.

Conclusions

Follow-up data (e.g., interviews, focus groups, etc.) determining why differences in ADH and RET are observed appears prudent. To convert those that lapsed and/or abandoned SIH/PA into committed long-term PA adherers. This would be a first step to develop targeted public health promotions and initiatives to enhance health outcomes at a population level.
The effect of non-pharmaceutical policy interventions on COVID-19 transmission across three cities in Colombia
Authors: Poppe Adriana , Maskileyson Dina
Published: September 2022

Governments across the globe have implemented different strategies to handle the COVID-19 pandemic. A national mandatory quarantine was the most applied policy tool. While there are studies that tested the effectiveness of a national mandatory quarantine, the question about the effectiveness of additional quarantine policies is not yet answered. In this study we focus on three large cities in Colombia (Bogota, Medellin and Cali) with similar socio-economic conditions but made use of different COVID-19 prevention measures. We examine whether different non-pharmaceutical policy interventions (NPIs) conducted in these three cities are effective against the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. We inspect the effect of the quarantine policies restricting exit from home by sex, ID number, whereby only Bogota implemented the restriction to leave the home according to sex followed by a restriction according to ID number, and Medellin and Cali implemented a restriction by ID number only. Data for the analysis are obtained from the National Administrative Department of Statistics of Colombia [Departamento Administrativo Nacional de Estadística (DANE)]. The data on pandemic severity is measured by the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases per city. We conduct single-group interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) to examine differences in the extent of the pandemic severity in Bogota, Medellin and Cali. We found that NPIs in all three Colombian cities had a positive effect on slowing the spread of the pandemic.
The adverse impact of excessive internet use during the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescents' coping skills: A case study in Hanoi, Vietnam 2021
Authors: Bui Quyen Thi Tu , Pham Chi Thi Lan , Le Anh Ha , Pham Duy Quang
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has created significant stressors in Vietnamese adolescents' lives. Coping skills play important roles in helping adolescents contend with stress. This study aimed to evaluate adolescents' coping skills during the COVID-19 pandemic and examine how those skills are impacted by excessive internet use during this pandemic.

Methods

The study used respondent-driven sampling and Google online survey forms to collect data. The study sample included 5,315 high school students aged 11- 17 years in Hanoi's rural and urban areas. The Kid Coping Scale was applied to examine adolescents' coping, and the coping score was compared among adolescents with different levels of internet use.

Results

The average coping score measured by Kid Coping Scale was 20.40 (std = 2.13). About half of adolescents often “avoid the problem or the area where it happened” when experiencing a hard time. One-third of adolescents often stopped thinking about the problem they faced. More than one-fourth of respondents stayed online for at least 8 h per day. The online time for learning/other activities showed a reverse dose-response relationship with the coping score; the longer the internet use duration, the lower the coping score.

Conclusion

The mean score of coping of Hanoi adolescents was moderate. Internet use has an adverse impact on their coping skills.
Research progress and hotspot of the artificial intelligence application in the ultrasound during 2011–2021: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Xia Demeng , Chen Gaoqi , Wu Kaiwen , Yu Mengxin , Zhang Zhentao , Lu Yixian , Xu Lisha , Wang Yin
Published: September 2022

Ultrasound, as a common clinical examination tool, inevitably has human errors due to the limitations of manual operation. Artificial intelligence is an advanced computer program that can solve this problem. Therefore, the relevant literature on the application of artificial intelligence in the ultrasonic field from 2011 to 2021 was screened by authors from the Web of Science Core Collection, which aims to summarize the trend of artificial intelligence application in the field of ultrasound, meanwhile, visualize and predict research hotspots. A total of 908 publications were included in the study. Overall, the number of global publications is on the rise, and studies on the application of artificial intelligence in the field of ultrasound continue to increase. China has made the largest contribution in this field. In terms of institutions, Fudan University has the most number of publications. Recently, IEEE Access is the most published journal. Suri J. S. published most of the articles and had the highest number of citations in this field (29 articles). It's worth noting that, convolutional neural networks (CNN), as a kind of deep learning algorithm, was considered to bring better image analysis and processing ability in recent most-cited articles. According to the analysis of keywords, the latest keyword is “COVID-19” (2020.8). The co-occurrence analysis of keywords by VOSviewer visually presented four clusters which consisted of “deep learning,” “machine learning,” “application in the field of visceral organs,” and “application in the field of cardiovascular”. The latest hot words of these clusters were “COVID-19; neural-network; hepatocellular carcinoma; atherosclerotic plaques”. This study reveals the importance of multi-institutional and multi-field collaboration in promoting research progress.
Whole-genome sequencing for surveillance of fluoroquinolone resistance in rifampicin-susceptible tuberculosis in a rural district of Shanghai: A 10-year retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Yangyi , Jiang Yuan , Yu Chenlei , Li Jing , Shen Xuhui , Pan Qichao , Shen Xin
Published: September 2022

Background

Fluoroquinolones (FQs) are the most important second-line anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) drugs, primarily used for the treatment of multidrug- or rifampicin-resistant TB (MDR/RR-TB). However, FQs are also commonly used to treat other bacterial infections. There are few published data on the rates of FQ resistance among rifampicin-susceptible TB.

Methods

We used whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to determine the prevalence of FQ resistance among rifampicin-susceptible TB in a rural district of Shanghai. This was a population-based retrospective study of all culture-positive pulmonary TB patients diagnosed in the Chongming district of Shanghai, China during 2009–2018.

Results

The rate of FQ resistance was 8.4% (29/345) among TB, 6.2% (20/324) among rifampicin-susceptible TB, and 42.9% (9/21) among MDR/RR-TB. Transmission of FQ-resistant strains was defined as strains differing within 12 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) based on WGS. Among the rifampicin-susceptible TB, 20% (4/20) of FQ resistance was caused by the transmission of FQ-resistant strains and 45% (9/20) of FQ resistance was identified as hetero-resistance.

Conclusions

The prevalence of FQ resistance in rifampicin-susceptible TB was higher than expected in Shanghai. Both the transmission and the selection of drug-resistant strains drive the emergence of FQ resistance in rifampicin-susceptible TB isolates. Therefore, the WGS-based surveillance system for TB should be urgently established and the clinical awareness of the rational use of FQs for respiratory infections should be enhanced to prevent the premature occurrence of FQ resistance.
Getting acquainted: First steps for child-robot relationship formation
Authors: Ligthart Mike E. U. , Neerincx Mark A. , Hindriks Koen V.
Published: September 2022

In this article we discuss two studies of children getting acquainted with an autonomous socially assistive robot. The success of the first encounter is key for a sustainable long-term supportive relationship. We provide four validated behavior design elements that enable the robot to robustly get acquainted with the child. The first are five conversational patterns that allow children to comfortably self-disclose to the robot. The second is a reciprocation strategy that enables the robot to adequately respond to the children’s self-disclosures. The third is a ‘how to talk to me’ tutorial. The fourth is a personality profile for the robot that creates more rapport and comfort between the child and the robot. The designs were validated with two user studies (N1 = 30, N2 = 75, 8–11 years. o. children). The results furthermore showed similarities between how children form relationships with people and how children form relationships with robots. Most importantly, self-disclosure, and specifically how intimate the self-disclosures are, is an important predictor for the success of child-robot relationship formation. Speech recognition errors reduces the intimacy and feeling similar to the robot increases the intimacy of self-disclosures.
The feasibility of virtual reality for anatomic training during temporal bone dissection course
Authors: Timonen Tomi , Iso-Mustajärvi Matti , Linder Pia , Vrzakova Hana , Sinkkonen Saku T. , Luukkainen Veera , Laitakari Jaakko , Elomaa Antti-Pekka , Dietz Aarno
Published: September 2022

Introduction: In recent decades, the lack of educational resources for cadaveric dissections has complicated the hands-on otological surgical training of otorhinolaryngology residents due to the poor availability of cadaver temporal bones, facilities, and limited hours for practice. Since students must gain adequate and patient-safe surgical skills, novel training methods need to be considered. In this proof-of-concept study, a new virtual reality (VR) software is described; this was used during a national temporal bone dissection course where we investigated its feasibility for otological surgical training.

Methods: A total of 11 otorhinolaryngology residents attended the annual 2-day hands-on temporal bone dissection course; they were divided into two groups with similar experience levels. Both groups received a lecture on temporal bone anatomy. A total of 22 cadaver temporal bones were harvested for the course; 11 of these bones were imaged by computed tomography. VR software designed for preoperative planning was then used to create 3D models of the imaged temporal bones. Prior to dissection training, the first group underwent a 30-min VR session, where they identified 24 surgically relevant anatomical landmarks on their individual temporal bone. The second group proceeded directly to dissection training. On the second day, the groups were switched. The feasibility of VR training was assessed with three different metrics: surgical performance evaluation using a modified Hopkins objective structured assessment of technical skill (OSATS), time for the surgical exposure of anatomical landmarks, and the user experience collected with a Likert scale questionnaire.

Results: No differences were noted in the overall performance between the groups. However, participants with prior VR training had a lower mean time for surgical exposure of anatomical landmarks (antrum 22.09 vs. 27.64 min, p = 0.33; incus 60.00 vs. 76.00, p = 0.03; PSCC 71.83 vs. 88.50, p = 0.17) during dissection training. The participants considered VR beneficial for anatomy teaching, surgery planning, and training.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the feasibility of implementing VR training in a temporal bone dissection course. The VR training demonstrated that even short expert-guided VR sessions are beneficial, and VR training prior to the dissections has a positive effect on the time needed to perform surgical tasks while maintaining comparable performance scores.
A qualitative cross-sectional study exploring the implementation of disability-inclusive WASH policy commitments in Svay Reing and Kampong Chhnang Provinces, Cambodia
Authors: Wilbur Jane , Pheng Pharozin , Has Rithysangharith , Nguon Sophak Kanika , Banks Lena Morgon , Huggett Chelsea , Scherer Nathaniel , Biran Adam
Published: September 2022

Background

The Government of Cambodia references core concepts of human rights of people with disabilities in their water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) policies and guidance. However, few references clearly articulate activities to achieve these.

Methods

This cross-sectional study in Cambodia explores the implementation of core concepts of human rights referenced in Cambodia's WASH policies in Kampong Chhnang and Svay Reing Provinces: Individualized services, Entitlement/affordability, Participation, Family resource, Access. Seven government officials and 10 service providers working in Phnom Penh and the two provinces, 16 women and men with disabilities (aged 18–65+), and four caregivers living in the study sites were included. Purposive sampling was applied to select participants. In-depth interviews were conducted via Zoom and over the telephone and analyzed data thematically using Nvivo 12.

Results

The Three Star Approach for WASH in Schools was noted as a promising approach for implementing policy commitments to make school WASH services accessible. However, policy commitments to disability-inclusive WASH were not always enacted systematically at all levels. Organizations of Persons with Disabilities faced challenges when advocating for disability rights at WASH sector meetings and people with disabilities were inconsistently supported to participate in commune WASH meetings. Poor access to assistive devices (e.g., wheelchair) and inaccessible terrain meant few people with disabilities could leave home and many had inadequate WASH services at home. Few could afford accessible WASH services and most lacked information and knowledge about how to improve WASH access for people with disabilities. Caregivers had no guidance about how to carry out the role and few had assistive devices (e.g., commodes, bedpans) or products (i.e., lifting devices), so supporting WASH for people with disabilities was physically demanding and time-consuming.

Conclusion

This study has noted several areas where Cambodia's WASH systems are focusing efforts to ensure people with disabilities gain access to WASH, but it has also highlighted aspects where implementation of policy commitments could be strengthened. A more comprehensive and cross-sectoral approach to progressively realizing the rights to water and sanitation for people with disabilities and challenging disability discrimination more broadly could significantly disrupt the vicious cycle of poverty and disability.