bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing mRNA signatures as a novel prognostic biomarker predicting high risk multiple myeloma
Authors: Wang Jing , Guo Lili , Lv Chenglan , Zhou Min , Wan Yuan
Published: February 2023

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) remains an essentially incurable disease. This study aimed to establish a predictive model for estimating prognosis in newly diagnosed MM based on gene expression profiles.

Methods

RNA-seq data were downloaded from the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) CoMMpass Study and the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) and protein-protein interaction network analysis were performed to identify hub genes. Enrichment analysis was also conducted. Patients were randomly split into training (70%) and validation (30%) datasets to build a prognostic scoring model based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). CIBERSORT was applied to estimate the proportion of 22 immune cells in the microenvironment. Drug sensitivity was analyzed using the OncoPredict algorithm.

Results

A total of 860 newly diagnosed MM samples and 444 normal counterparts were screened as the datasets. WGCNA was applied to analyze the RNA-seq data of 1589 intersecting genes between differentially expressed genes and prognostic genes. The blue module in the PPI networks was analyzed with Cytoscape, and 10 hub genes were identified using the MCODE plug-in. A three-gene (TTK, GINS1, and NCAPG) prognostic model was constructed. This risk model showed remarkable prognostic value. CIBERSORT assessment revealed the risk model to be correlated with activated memory CD4 T cells, M0 macrophages, M1 macrophages, eosinophils, activated dendritic cells, and activated mast cells. Furthermore, based on OncoPredict, high-risk MM patients were sensitive to eight drugs.

Conclusions

We identified and constructed a three-gene-based prognostic model, which may provide new and in-depth insights into the treatment of MM patients.
Association between metabolic obesity phenotypes and multiple myeloma hospitalization burden: A national retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Yue , Fan Xiude , Zhao Chunhui , Yuan Zinuo , Cheng Yiping , Wu Yafei , Han Junming , Yuan Zhongshang , Zhao Yuanfei , Lu Keke
Published: February 2023

Background & purpose

Obesity and metabolic disorders were associated with increased risk of MM, a disease characterized by high risk of relapsing and require frequent hospitalizations. In this study, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to explore the association of metabolic obesity phenotypes with the readmission risk of MM.

Patients & methods

We analyzed 34,852 patients diagnosed with MM from the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD), a nationally representative database from US. Hospitalization diagnosis of patients were obtained using ICD-10 diagnosis codes. According to obesity and metabolic status, the population was divided into four phenotypes: metabolically healthy non-obese (MHNO), metabolically unhealthy non-obese (MUNO), metabolically healthy obese (MHO), and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO). The patients with different phenotypes were observed for hospital readmission at days 30-day, 60-day, 90-day and 180-day. Multivariate cox regression model was used to estimate the relationship between obesity metabolic phenotypes and readmissions risk.

Results

There were 5,400 (15.5%), 7,255 (22.4%), 8,025 (27.0%) and 7,839 (35.6%) unplanned readmissions within 30-day, 60-day, 90-day and 180-day follow-up, respectively. For 90-day and 180-day follow-up, compared with patients with the MHNO phenotype, those with metabolic unhealthy phenotypes MUNO (90-day: P = 0.004; 180-day: P = < 0.001) and MUO (90-day: P = 0.049; 180-day: P = 0.004) showed higher risk of readmission, while patients with only obesity phenotypes MHO (90-day: P = 0.170; 180-day: P = 0.090) experienced no higher risk. However, similar associations were not observed for 30-day and 60-day. Further analysis in 90-day follow-up revealed that, readmission risk elevated with the increase of the combined factor numbers, with aHR of 1.068 (CI: 1.002-1.137, P = 0.043, with one metabolic risk factor), 1.109 (CI: 1.038-1.184, P = 0.002, with two metabolic risk factors) and 1.125 (95% CI: 1.04-1.216, P = 0.003, with three metabolic risk factors), respectively.

Conclusion

Metabolic disorders, rather than obesity, were independently associated with higher readmission risk in patients with MM, whereas the risk elevated with the increase of the number of combined metabolic factors. However, the effect of metabolic disorders on MM readmission seems to be time-dependent. For MM patient combined with metabolic disorders, more attention should be paid to advance directives to reduce readmission rate and hospitalization burden.
Metabolic syndrome and survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis
Authors: Fu Jia , Jiang Jinqiong , Liu Kanghan
Published: February 2023

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been related to a high incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the influence of MetS on survival of patients with HCC is still unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association between MetS and survival of HCC patients.

Methods

A search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science retrieved relevant cohort studies from the inception of the databases to October 16, 2022. Data collection, literature search, and statistical analysis were carried out independently by two authors. We pooled the results using a random-effects model that incorporates heterogeneity.

Results

In the meta-analysis, 8080 patients with HCC were included from ten cohort studies, and 1166 patients (14.4%) had MetS. Eight studies included patients treated primarily with radical hepatectomy, one study with patients receiving sorafenib, and another study included patients who were treated with radical hepatectomy or non-surgical treatments. Pooled results showed that MetS was associated with poor overall survival (OS, risk ratio [RR]: 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.08 to 1.37, p = 0.001; I2 = 32%) and progression-free survival (PFS, RR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.18 to 1.49, p < 0.001, I2 = 14%). Influencing analysis by excluding one study at a time showed consistent results (p all < 0.05). Subgroup analyses showed similar results in studies with MetS diagnosed with the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III or International Diabetes Federal criteria, and in studies with mean follow-up durations < or ≥ 3.5 years (p for subgroup difference all > 0.05).

Conclusion

In patients with HCC, MetS may be a risk factor of poor OS and PFS, particularly for those after radical hepatectomy.
Retinopathy of prematurity and placental histopathology findings: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Athikarisamy Sam Ebenezer , Lam Geoffrey C. , Cooper Matthew N. , Strunk Tobias
Published: February 2023

Aim

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a biphasic vaso-proliferative disease that has the potential to cause blindness. In addition to prematurity and hyperoxia, perinatal infection and inflammation have been reported to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of ROP. The aim of this study was to assess the association between placental inflammation and the severity of ROP.

Methods

A retrospective study of infants (<30 weeks of gestational age) born at the King Edward Memorial Hospital, a tertiary perinatal center in Western Australia.

Results

A total of 878 infants were included in this study (ROP stage 0–2 = 829; 3 or more = 49). The presence of maternal chorioamnionitis appeared to show signs of an association with reduced odds of severe ROP: mild chorioamnionitis OR=0.43 (95% CI: 0.17, 1.05) and severe chorioamnionitis OR=0.68 (95% CI: 0.29, 1.60). A strong association was observed for oxygen supplementation at 36 weeks (OR: 5.16; p < 0.001), exposure to postnatal steroids (OR: 6.65; p < 0.001), and receipt of platelet transfusion (OR: 8.21; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Maternal chorioamnionitis or fetal chorioamnionitis was associated with reduced odds of severe ROP. A strong association was found in infants who needed oxygen supplementation at 36 weeks and those who required steroids or platelets in the postnatal period.
Investigating the human spirit and spirituality in pediatric patients with kidney disease
Authors: Woroniecki Robert , Moritz Michael L.
Published: February 2023

Human spirit is an integral part of the medicinal art and science trifecta: body-mind-spirit, and it is contained in the World Health Organization definition of health. Human spirit is defined as our purpose in life, relationships with all living creatures or “Higher Power”, and in general our place on planet Earth. Spirituality is a required part of patient care according to Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations. There is an abundant medical literature that documents discrepancies in the results between studies and populations, and points to the importance of cultural, ethnic, spiritual or religious differences. Validated questionnaires used in research for last several decades demonstrated an association of spirituality with clinical outcomes, coping, and quality of life in different adult chronic diseases. There are also validated scales to measure hope in children based on the premise that children are goal directed and that their goal-related thoughts can be understood, yet their purposefulness, meaning of life and spirit in pediatric nephrology remains mostly unexamined. Although pediatric nephrology has made significant advances in molecular techniques, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and started to address more broad social issues such as racism, health equity, diversity of our work force, etc, it lacks both systematic ways of studying and philosophical approach to fostering human spirit. This mini review examines the place and knowledge gaps in human spirit and spirituality in pediatric nephrology. We review the concept of the human spirit and medical literature pertaining to its role in pediatric nephrology.
Establishment and application of a high-throughput screening model for cell adhesion inhibitors
Authors: Sun Han , Wang Xue-Kai , Li Jian-Rui , Tang Mei , Li Hu , Lei Lei , Li Hong-Ying , Jiang Jing , Li Jia-Yu , Dong Biao , Jiang Jian-Dong , Peng Zong-Gen
Published: February 2023

The cell adhesion between leukocytes and endothelial cells plays an important balanced role in the pathophysiological function, while excessive adhesion caused by etiological agents is associated with the occurrence and development of many acute and chronic diseases. Cell adhesion inhibitors have been shown to have a potential therapeutic effect on these diseases, therefore, efficient and specific inhibitors against cell adhesion are highly desirable. Here, using lipopolysaccharide-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and calcein-AM-labeled human monocytic cell THP-1, we established a high-throughput screening model for cell adhesion inhibitors with excellent model evaluation parameters. Using the drug repurposing strategy, we screened out lifitegrast, a potent cell adhesion inhibitor, which inhibited cell adhesion between HUVEC and THP-1 cells by directly interrupting the adhesion interaction between HUVEC and THP-1 cells and showed a strong therapeutic effect on the mouse acute liver injury induced by poly (I:C)/D-GalN. Therefore, the screening model is suitable for screening and validating cell adhesion inhibitors, which will promote the research and development of inhibitors for the treatment of diseases caused by excessive cell adhesion.
Natural ageing primarily affects the initial response to a sustained walking perturbation but not the ability to adapt over time
Authors: Swart S. B. , den Otter A. R. , Lamoth C. J. C.
Published: February 2023

The ability to flexibly respond and adapt the walking pattern over time to unexpected gait perturbations is pivotal for safe and efficient locomotion. However, these abilities might be affected by age due to age-related changes in sensorimotor functioning. In this cross-sectional lifespan study, we used a split-belt paradigm to determine how age affects the initial response (i.e., flexibility)—and the ability to adapt after prolonged exposure—to a sustained gait perturbation. Healthy adults (N = 75) of different ages (12–13 per decade) were included and walked on a split-belt treadmill, in which a sustained gait perturbation was imposed by increasing one of the belt speeds. Linear regression models, with the evoked spatiotemporal gait asymmetry during the early perturbation and late adaptation, were performed to determine the effects of age on the flexibility and adaptability to split-belt walking. Results showed that the flexibility to respond to an unexpected perturbation decreased across the lifespan, as evidenced by a greater step length asymmetry (SLA) during the early perturbation phase. Despite this reduced flexibility in step lengths, late adaptation levels in SLA were comparable across different ages. With increasing age, however, subjects needed more steps to reach a stable level in SLA. Finally, when the belts were set to symmetrical speeds again, the magnitude of SLA (i.e., the aftereffects) increased with age. Collectively, these findings suggest that natural ageing comes with a decrease in gait flexibility, while the ability to adapt to split-belt walking was not affected by age—only how adaptation was achieved.
The triterpenoid saponin content difference is associated with the two type oxidosqualene cyclase gene copy numbers of Pulsatilla chinensis and Pulsatilla cernua
Authors: Liu Xianju , Xu Yudi , Di Jipeng , Liu An , Jiang Jinzhu
Published: February 2023

Pulsatilla chinensis is an important medicinal herb, its dried radix is used to treat the inflammation since ancient China. Triterpenoid saponins are proved to be the main active compounds of Pulsatilla genus. The triterpenoid saponin contents vary widely in different Pulsatilla species. But no enzyme involved in the triterpenoid saponin biosynthetic pathway was identified in Pulsitilla genus. This seriously limits the explanation of the triterpene content difference of Pulsatilla species. In this article, we obtained two oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC) genes from P. chinensis and P. cernua by touchdown PCR and anchored PCR. These two OSCs converted 2,3-oxidosqualene into different triterpenoids. The OSC from P. cernua is a monofunctional enzyme for β-amyrin synthesis, while the OSC from P. chinensis is a multifunctional enzyme for lupeol and β-amyrin synthesis, and the lupeol is the main product. Then we identified the 260th amino acid residue was the key site for the product difference by gene fusion and site-directed mutant technology. When the 260th amino acid residue was tryptophan (W260) and phenylalanine (F260), the main catalysate was β-amyrin and lupeol, respectively. Then we found that the expression of these two genes was strongly correlated with the lupeol-type and β-amyrin-type triterpenoid contents in P. cernua and P. chinensis. Finally, we found the gene copy number difference of these two genotypes leaded to the triterpenoid diversity in P. cernua and P. chinensis. This study provides useful information for the molecular breeding and quality improvement of P. chinensis and a molecular marker to identify the P. chinensis decoction pieces.
Associations between the helpfulness of teacher induction programs, teacher self-efficacy, and anticipated first-year teacher retention
Authors: Han Xiaotian
Published: February 2023

First-year teachers need help because they are confronted with various challenges and are more likely to leave the profession within a few years. Studies have demonstrated the efficacy of evidence-based teacher induction programs (TIPs) in enhancing the performance of new teachers and promoting positive student outcomes. However, there has been opposition to this assertion, with some suggesting alternative explanations for the observed effects. This study applied Horn et al's high-quality TIP model as the theoretical framework and employed a non-experimental, correlational design to address the research questions by collecting data from 408 first-year primary school teachers in Shanghai. Correlations and multiple regressions were examined in the study. The results revealed the following: (1) the perceptions of the helpfulness of TIP were not found to correlate significantly with teacher self-efficacy; (2) there was a limited negative correlation (r = −0.142, p < 0.01) between self-efficacy and anticipated retention, suggesting that higher self-efficacy scores were associated with low anticipated retention, contrary to the study's hypothesis; (3) anticipated retention was found to be significantly affected by gender, major, and ratings of TIP. Anticipated retention was found to be significantly affected by gender, major, and ratings of TIP helpfulness. The results, implications, and recommendations are discussed further in the study.
Why do pregnant women with fear of birth prefer vaginal birth? A qualitative study in China
Authors: Zeng Tieying , Yuan Mengmei , Wu Meiliyang , Chen Ye , Zhang Ke
Published: February 2023

Background

Fear of birth (FOB) is becoming increasingly recognized as a mental health issue that may endanger maternal and infant health and affects women’s subsequent fertility desires. It has also been shown to be related to the choice of delivery mode. Given the differences in healthcare systems and policies between countries, and the gaps in the exploration of women’s experience of fear of birth and its association with the delivery mode in the Chinese cultural context, this study thus attempt to understand Chinese women’s experience with fear of birth and their preferences for delivery mode through a qualitative study.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative research was performed among twenty pregnant women from the obstetric outpatient of a tertiary hospital in China. Colaizzi’s method was used to analyze the participants’ data.

Results

We proposed three themes and nine subthemes on the participants’ experience with fear of birth: (1) an invisible dilemma: trapped in lingering fear (fear of all sides, the untold loneliness, and ambivalence with mixed feelings); (2) an unexpected decision: choose to give birth naturally (initiative selection and passive acceptance); and (3) A strength to confront challenges head-on: move forward with fear (awaken of maternal spirit, hope in bloom, Chinese tolerance culture, and obstetric analgesia).

Conclusion

Fear of birth is a complex emotion, accompanied by feelings of loneliness and ambivalence in addition to fear. We found that women with fear of birth in this study prefer vaginal birth, and it was revealed to be the result of a combined action of intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
What are the key drivers to promote continuance intention of undergraduates in online learning? A multi-perspective framework
Authors: Zhang Jintao , Zhang Mingbo , Liu Yanming , Zhang Liqin
Published: February 2023

Introduction/Aim

The purpose of this study is to investigate the key predictors of online learning system continuance intention using expectation-confirmation theory and information system success model as the theoretical framework.

Methods

A total of 537 respondents participated in the questionnaire to measure their self-reported responses to eight constructs (perceived usefulness, interaction, confirmation, satisfaction, continuance intention, information quality, system quality, service quality). Convenience sampling was used to obtain participants in this study. Partial least square structural equation model is used for data analysis.

Results

The results showed that all the hypotheses were validated except that there was no significant positive relationship between online learning interaction and student satisfaction. Meanwhile, the variance of the continuance intention of the online learning system reached 74.0%, falling within the moderate to substantial. In addition, the multi-group analysis of perceived usefulness, satisfaction and continuance intention showed that there was no significant gender difference in the above two relationships.

Discussion

Finally, this study also puts forward the theoretical and practical implications of college students’ continuance intention of online learning system.
COVID-19 pandemic experiences of students from BAME and White ethnic groups pursuing higher education in the UK: A qualitative comparative exploration
Authors: Hitch Geeta , Zaman Shahaduz
Published: February 2023

Background

The new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS-Cov2, more commonly known as COVID-19 continues to be an ongoing cause of one of the most disruptive pandemics worldwide. UK universities comprise students who come from different backgrounds and cultures and the majority returned home or lived alone during the lockdown. This qualitative study aimed to compare the experiences of students from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds and White British students.

Materials and methods

An in-depth interview was conducted with each of 35 students—18 from BAME and 17 from White backgrounds—in their homes on Zoom or Microsoft between November 2020 and May 2021. Interview transcripts were checked for accuracy and were analysed using N-Vivo coding software for themes. The pre-pandemic and pandemic experiences of students were collected in the form of a data, including perceptions of the COVID-19 virus, the physical environment in which students lived, and the effect on their general wellbeing, social interactions, online learning, teaching, and assessment.

Results

Mental health issues were more prevalent among female students compared to males and this was more evident amongst BAME females who had returned to living at home, possibly due to lack of personal space. There was a reduction in personal hygiene in White females. There was an increase in the use of social media, particularly by BAME females. Students mostly disliked online learning and exams. Concerns were also raised about how universities communicated important information to the students.

Conclusion

Based on the recommendations of the WHO in relation to COVID-19, universities need to effectively manage the information they provide to students and build trust through risk communication and community engagement. One important area in this regard is addressing access to mental health services. The reasons why BAME females experience more mental health issues should be explored further.
Combining actigraphy and experience sampling to assess physical activity and sleep in patients with psychosis: A feasibility study
Authors: Pieters Lydia E. , Deenik Jeroen , de Vet Sabine , Delespaul Philippe , van Harten Peter N.
Published: February 2023

Background

Sleep disorders and reduced physical activity are common in patients with psychosis and can be related to health-related outcomes such as symptomatology and functioning. Mobile health technologies and wearable sensor methods enable continuous and simultaneous monitoring of physical activity, sleep, and symptoms in one’s day-to-day environment. Only a few studies have applied simultaneous assessment of these parameters. Therefore, we aimed to examine the feasibility of the simultaneous monitoring of physical activity, sleep, and symptoms and functioning in psychosis.

Methods

Thirty three outpatients diagnosed with a schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder used an actigraphy watch and experience sampling method (ESM) smartphone app for 7 consecutive days to monitor physical activity, sleep, symptoms, and functioning. Participants wore the actigraphy watch during day and night and completed multiple short questionnaires (eight daily, one morning, and one evening) on their phone. Hereafter they completed evaluation questionnaires.

Results

Of the 33 patients (25 male), 32 (97.0%) used the ESM and actigraphy during the instructed timeframe. ESM response was good: 64.0% for the daily, 90.6% for morning, and 82.6% for evening questionnaire(s). Participants were positive about the use of actigraphy and ESM.

Conclusion

The combination of wrist-worn actigraphy and smartphone-based ESM is feasible and acceptable in outpatients with psychosis. These novel methods can help both clinical practice and future research to gain more valid insight into physical activity and sleep as biobehavioral markers linked to psychopathological symptoms and functioning in psychosis. This can be used to investigate relationships between these outcomes and thereby improve individualized treatment and prediction.
A literature review of sleep problems and neurodevelopment disorders
Authors: Al Lihabi Abeer
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Sleep is an incredibly complex process that goes beyond relaxing and body resting. Disturbance in sleep leads to several short-term and long-term consequences. Neurodevelopmental diseases such as “autism spectrum disorder” (ASDs), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and intellectual disability commonly experience sleep disorders that affect their clinical presentation, daily function, and quality of life.

Discussion

The incidence of sleep problems in ASD patients ranges from 32 to 71.5%, especially insomnia, while an estimated 25–50% of people with ADHD report having sleep issues in clinical settings. The incidence of sleep issues is widespread in persons with intellectual disabilities, reaching up to 86%. This article is a literature review covering the neurodevelopmental disorder interaction with sleep disorder and different management.

Conclusion

Disorders of sleep are key concerns in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. In this group of patients, sleep disorders are common and tend to be chronic. Recognizing and diagnosis of sleep disorders will enhance their function, response to treatment, and quality of life.
Mapping study of papillary thyroid carcinoma in China: Predicting EQ-5D-5L utility values from FACT-H&N
Authors: Huang Deyu , Peng Jialing , Chen Na , Yang Qing , Jiang Longlin
Published: February 2023

Objective

To develop a mapping algorithm that can be used to predict EQ-5D-5L health utility scores from FACT-H&N and obtain health utility parameters for Chinese patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), which can be used for cost-utility analysis in health economic.

Methods

A total of 1,050 patients with PTC from a tertiary hospital in China were included, and they completed FACT-H&N and EQ-5D-5L. Four mapping algorithms of direct mapping functions were used to derive the models: Ordinary least squares (OLS), Tobit model (Tobit), Two-part model (TPM), and Beta mixture regression model (Beta). The goodness-of-fit of models was assessed by the mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), Akaike information criteria (AIC), Bayesian information criteria (BIC), and absolute error (AE). A fivefold cross-validation method was used to test the stability of the models.

Results

The mean utility value of the EQ-5D-5L was 0.870 ± 0.094. The mean EQ-VAS score was 76.5 ± 13.0. The Beta mixture regression model mapping FACT-H&N to EQ-5D-5L achieved the best performance [fivefold cross-validation MAE = 0.04612, RMSE = 0.06829, AIC = −2480.538, BIC = −2381.137, AE > 0.05 (%) = 32.48, AE > 0.1 (%) = 8.95]. The independent variables in this model were Physical Well-Being (PWB), Emotional Well-Being (EWB), Head & Neck Cancer Subscale (HNCS) scores and its square term and interaction term scores.

Conclusions

This study calculated the health utility score of Chinese patients with PTC. The reported algorithms can be used to map the FACT-H&N into the EQ-5D-5L, which can be applied in the cost-utility related study of patients with PTC.
Nonlinear effects of pandemic uncertainty on depression, pandemic preventive behavior intentions, and positive life attitudes: Moderating effects of high and low uncertainty grouping
Authors: Liu Zeyu , Liu Yun , Li Ang , Zhu Tingshao
Published: February 2023

Backgrounds

COVID-19 is difficult to end in a short time and people are still facing huge uncertainties. Since people's lives are gradually returning to normal, the sense of control and intolerance of uncertainty, which were mainly focused by past studies, are not specific to COVID-19 and will be more influenced by some factors unrelated to the pandemic. Therefore, they may be difficult to accurately reflect the individuals' perceptions of uncertainty. Besides, past research just after the outbreak mainly investigated people in high levels of uncertainty, we don't know the impact of uncertainties on individuals' psychological states when people gradually recovered their sense of control. To solve these problems, we proposed the concept of “pandemic uncertainty” and investigated its impact on people's daily lives.

Methods

During October 20, 2021 to October 22, 2021, this study obtained data about uncertainty, depression, positive attitude, pandemic preventive behavior intentions, personality, and social support from 530 subjects using convenient sampling. The subjects were all college students from the Dalian University of Technology and Dalian Vocational and Technical College. According to the distribution of uncertainty, we divided the dataset into high and low groups. Subsequently, by using uncertainty as the independent variable, the grouping variable as the moderating variable, and other variables as the control variables, the moderating effects were analyzed for depression, positive attitude, and pandemic preventive behavior intentions, respectively.

Results

The results showed that the grouping variable significantly moderate the influence of uncertainty on positive attitude and pandemic preventive behavior intentions but had no significant effect on depression. Simple slope analysis revealed that high grouping uncertainty significantly and positively predicted positive attitude and pandemic preventive behavior intentions, while low grouping effects were not significant.

Conclusion

These results reveal a nonlinear effect of pandemic uncertainty on the pandemic preventive behavior intentions and positive life attitudes and enlighten us about the nonlinear relationship of psychological characteristics during a pandemic.
How do researchers perceive problems in research collaboration? Results from a large-scale study of German scientists
Authors: Weinmann Carina , Hückstädt Malte , Meißner Florian , Vowe Gerhard
Published: February 2023

In recent years, collaboration has become the norm in scientific knowledge production. Like other forms of collaboration, research collaborations (RCs) face specific problems that can jeopardize success. Against this background, the present study sought to gain a deeper understanding of the relevance of different collaboration problems and the interconnections among these problems. Building on previous insights into the most current problems, we addressed four major issues: (1) researchers' perceived relative relevance of collaboration problems in their projects (in terms of their occurrence), (2) differences in these perceptions based on the type of RC (e.g., number of subprojects and collaboration mode) and (3) on the characteristics of researchers, and (4) the co-occurrence of collaboration problems. Based on a representative survey of leading participants of RCs funded by the German Research Foundation (n = 5,326), we found that researchers experienced collaboration problems (e.g., fairness and communication problem) only to a small degree, and there were almost no differences regarding their perceived relevance. Furthermore, there were almost no significant differences concerning the perceived relevance of these problems depending on the type of RC or the individual researchers. However, the findings did reveal specific patterns of co-occurrence (e.g., relationship and difference problem). The results suggest that previous research may have overstated the relevance of collaboration problems in RCs. Instead, it seems that at least in Germany, collaborative research works better than one might assume.
Implementing a participatory model of place-based stewardship for inclusive wetland management: A community case study
Authors: Reeves Jessica M. , Bonney Patrick R.
Published: February 2023

The inclusion of local values and an appreciation for different ways of knowing are increasingly considered core principles in wetland management but can be difficult to achieve in practice. This Community Case Study describes the development and impacts of a participatory action research (PAR) project focused on the creation of a community-led stewardship and knowledge sharing in a rural coastal community in Victoria, Australia. The project, Living Bung Yarnda, was designed around four dimensions: vision, knowledge, narrative, and capacity—that align with key principles of PAR and guided the process of knowledge building and exchange. Working with a range of stakeholders, including environmentally-focussed community members, government agencies and Traditional Owners groups, we aimed to discover pathways for the inclusion of local knowledge, lived experience, and acts of care by community members in governance processes. The case description illustrates how embedded knowledge in this community is currently undervalued by management agencies but, if harnessed, can contribute to more holistic and equitable forms of wetland management. We conclude with reflections on the development of the project, emphasizing the role of academic researchers in fostering relationships between community and management authorities that is built on trust, humility and a willingness to find a common language.
Re-imagining the nation-state: An impetus from the pandemic
Authors: Posocco Lorenzo , Watson Iarfhlaith
Published: February 2023

In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the intensive activities of solidarity at the local, national, and transnational levels, the increase in scientific cooperation, the implementation of assistance policies by states, and the various endeavors of NGOs, religious communities, private organizations, wealthy and less wealthy donors, and charities to support individuals and groups affected by it. It is argued that the pandemic is not only a tragedy that revealed some of the disintegrative processes of global risk society but is also a matchless opportunity for acknowledging what can be (and is) done in the globalized world when guided by positives such as cooperation, coordination, and solidarity. Discussing the theories of globalization, nationalism, and cosmopolitanism, with special attention to Ulrich Beck's theory of reflexive society, the core point of this article is that, considering upcoming global threats of even greater magnitude, such as climate change, potentially deadlier pandemics, and nuclear conflicts, a new world order based on cooperation, coordination and solidarity between nation-states is not only desirable but necessary for survival.
The SEO effect. Mapping the optimized landscape around controversial policy issues in Italy
Authors: Caroleo Laura , Giorgi Giulia , De Amicis Camilla
Published: February 2023

This research investigates the use of search engine optimization (SEO) by political and non-political actors to amplify the visibility of search engine results. While there has been much theoretical speculation around the role of SEO techniques in boosting the ranking appearance of a website, few empirical studies have been undertaken to understand the extent to which SEO techniques are used to promote visibility online. This study takes Italy as a case study to map the information landscape around nine highly controversial issues during the Italian electoral campaign of 2022. Using a combination of digital methods and a tool detecting optimization in websites, our article aims at examining which actors employ SEO techniques to foster the circulation of their ideas and agendas around hot topics. Our analysis reveals that information channels, institutions, and companies are predominant, while political actors remain in the background. Contextually, data indicate that SEO techniques are employed by several recurrent editorial groups, company owners, and institutions. Ultimately, we discuss the impact of SEO techniques on the circulation and visibility of information around relevant policy issues, contributing to shaping and influencing public debate and opinion.
Tracing 33P-labelled organic phosphorus compounds in two soils: New insights into decomposition dynamics and direct use by microbes
Authors: Wasner Daniel , Prommer Judith , Zezula David , Mooshammer Maria , Hu Yuntao , Wanek Wolfgang
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Organic phosphorus (Po) compounds constitute an important pool in soil P cycling, but their decomposition dynamics are poorly understood. Further, it has never been directly tested whether low molecular weight Po compounds are taken up by soil microbes in an intact form, which reduces the dependence of their P acquisition on extracellular phosphatases.

Methods

We investigated the short-term fate (24 h) of five 33P-labelled Po compounds (teichoic acids, phospholipids, DNA, RNA and soluble organophosphates) and 33P-labelled inorganic P (Pi) in two soils.

Results

We found indications that soil microbial breakdown of phosphodiesters was limited by the depolymerization step, and that direct microbial uptake of Po occurred to a substantial extent.

Discussion

We postulate a trade-off between direct Po uptake and complete extracellular Po mineralization. These findings have profound consequences for our understanding of microbial P cycling in soils.
Exploring innovation adoption behavior for sustainable development of Mediterranean tree crops
Authors: Timpanaro Giuseppe , Pecorino Biagio , Chinnici Gaetano , Bellia Claudio , Cammarata Mariarita , Cascone Giulio , Scuderi Alessandro
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The combination of knowledge, personal skills and company resources influences, all things being equal, such as the availability of new technologies, market conditions and other factors external to the company, farmers in their innovation choices. This study is an attempt to understand which psychological constructs influence the decision-making process of farmers specialized in typical Mediterranean crops with regard to innovation. Previous studies on the adoption of agricultural innovations have often considered socio economic characteristics and ignored the underlying motivational factors that influence the behavioral intention of farmers.

Methods

This study adopted three socio-psychological constructs, Attitude (ATT), Subjective Norm (SN), and Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC), derived from the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), and proposed three new constructs, Perceived Innovations Characteristics (PIC), Benefits (B), and Transferability (T), thus using an Extended Model of the Theory of Planned Behavior.

Results

The outcome of the multiple regression revealed that farmers' intention (I) to adopt sustainable irrigation innovations is positively influenced by attitude (ATT), subjective norm (SN), and perceived innovation characteristics (PIC). This last construct had mediating effects on the indirect relationships between PBC, benefits (B), transferability (T), and intention (I).

Discussion

The results provide numerous insights, useful both for outlining the demand for innovation and for calibrating future policies aimed at the primary sector, especially on the sustainable management of irrigation resources. In particular, the analyses carried out highlight the importance of factors external to the company as key levers in shaping the demand for innovations.
Effect of pleural invasion on survival of patients with small cell lung cancer: Propensity score analysis and nomogram establishment based on the SEER database
Authors: Yang Jie , Yin Hui , Liu Mingshan , Zou Guowen , Yu Bentong
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Pleural invasion (PI) is identified as an adverse prognostic factor for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its value in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the survival effect of PI on overall survival (OS) in SCLC, meanwhile, we established a predictive nomogram based on related risk factors for OS in SCLC patients with PI.

Methods

We extracted the data of patients diagnosed with primary SCLC between 2010 and 2018 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The propensity score matching (PSM) method was used to minimize the baseline difference between the non-PI and PI groups. Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test were used for survival analysis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to identify the independent prognostic factors. Randomly divided the patients with PI into training (70%) and validation (30%) cohorts. A prognostic nomogram was established based on the training cohort and was evaluated in the validation cohort. The C-index, receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were applied to assess the performance of the nomogram.

Results

A total of 1,770 primary SCLC patients were enrolled, including1321patients with non-PI and 449 patients with PI. After PSM, the 387 patients in the PI group matched the 387 patients in the non-PI group. By Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, we observed the exact beneficial effect of non-PI on OS in both original and matched cohorts. Multivariate Cox analysis showed similar results to demonstrate a statistically significant benefit for patients with non-PI in both original and matched cohorts. Age, N stage, M stage, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors for SCLC patients with PI. The C-index of the nomogram in the training and validation cohort was 0.714 and 0.746, respectively. The ROC curves, calibration curves, and DCA curves also demonstrated good predictive performance in the training and validation cohorts of the prognostic nomogram.

Conclusion

Our study shows that PI is an independent poor prognostic factor for SCLC patients. The nomogram is a useful and reliable tool to predict the OS in SCLC patients with PI. The nomogram can provide strong references to clinicians to facilitate clinic decisions.
Successful management of a rare radius schwannoma mimicking malignant bone tumors: A case report and literature review
Authors: Sun Nianzhe , Khan Umar Zeb , Zeng Lei , Wu Panfeng , Xiong Qin , Peng Lushan , Yu Hong , Tang Juyu
Published: February 2023

Background

Schwannomas are benign tumors originating from Schwann cells, frequently occurring in the spinal cord and peripheral nerves. Intraosseous schwannomas, a rare subset, account for approximately 0.2% of schwannomas. Intraosseous schwannomas commonly impinge the mandible, followed by the sacrum and the spine. By far, only three cases of radius intraosseous schwannomas have been reported in PubMed. The tumor was treated differently in all three cases, resulting in different outcomes.

Case presentation

A 29-year-old male construction engineer who complained of a painless mass on the radial aspect of the right forearm was diagnosed with an intraosseous schwannoma of the radius based on radiography, three-dimensional computed tomography reconstruction, magnetic resonance imaging, pathological examination, and immunohistochemistry. A different surgical approach was employed to reconstruct the radial graft defect using bone microrepair techniques, resulting in more reliable bone healing and early functional recovery. Meanwhile, no clinical and radiographic findings suggestive of recurrence were observed at the 12-month follow-up.

Conclusion

Vascularized bone flap transplantation combined with three-dimensional imaging reconstruction planning might yield better results for repairing small segmental bone defects of the radius caused by intraosseous schwannomas.
A Modified Circumferentially Averaged Method for Compressor Performance under Inlet Distortion
Authors: Zhao Yang , Jin Donghai , Gui Xingmin
Published: February 2023

Inlet distortion detrimentally affects the aerodynamic performance and lessens the stability of compressors, and has received considerable attention. The need to accurately estimate its effect on the performance and stability of compressor as early as possible in a pre-design cycle is emphasized herein. This work presents a modified circumferential average through flow method (CAM) based on parallel compressor (PC) theory for compressor performance and stability analysis under inlet distortion. The PC approach classically considers independent circumferential flow zones evolving through a compressor, with the same outlet static pressure. In the present work, this theory has been modified in order to create a parametric outlet static pressure boundary condition. It enables us to deal with an upstream flow distortion map, and the meridian plane flow field can then be calculated in order to update the corresponding compressor performance. The model is applied in a compressor which has been tested for its performance characteristics under uniform inlet conditions. Utilizing the new model, the stability and performance of the compressor under inlet distortion can be estimated.
The Next Generation of Cotton Defoliation Sprayer
Authors: Neupane Jyoti , Maja Joe Mari , Miller Gilbert , Marshall Michael , Cutulle Matthew , Greene Jeremy , Luo Jun , Barnes Edward
Published: February 2023

Chemical spraying is one of the most important and frequently performed intercultural agricultural operations. It is imperative to select the appropriate spraying technology as a selection of ineffective one leads to the wastage of a considerable volume of applied chemicals to the non-target area. Many precision technologies have been developed in the past few decades, such as image processing based on real-time variable-rate chemical spraying systems, autonomous chemical sprayers using machine vision and nozzle control, and use of unmanned aerial and ground vehicles. Cotton defoliation is a natural physiological process, but untimely and inadequate leaf defoliation by natural process hinders the mechanical cotton harvest. Induced defoliation is practiced by applying defoliants to address the issue with the natural process of defoliation. This paper covers spraying technologies in agriculture, cotton plants, cotton defoliation, new defoliant spraying systems, and the recent field test. The new spraying system attached to an autonomous mobile robot aims to improve the delivery of defoliant chemicals by adding a spray unit on the side of the plant. Preliminary results of the water-sensitive paper test at the field showed adequate penetration with low flow rates. This is a huge development as there is a huge potential to save on the cost of applying defoliant chemicals.