bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Becoming a Collaborative Scholar: A Metalogue
Authors: Coghlan David , Shani A.B. (Rami) , Bartunek Jean
Published: May 2024

In this article, the three authors, each of whom has been collaborating in various ways with practitioners for over 40 years, engage in a metalogue to explore their experiences of engaging in collaborative research. A metalogue is a reflective conversation whereby the mode of conversation mirrors the topic being discussed. In this illustration of a metalogue, the authors explore how they have developed as collaborative scholars. Both in the respective stories and in the metalogue the themes of being in a space of not-knowing, relevance and relationships emerged. The article offers an account of how the authors grew into their respective collaborative scholarship approaches, the key themes that emerged and of the metalogue process as a method for shared reflection on the practice of scholarship.
Expansion displacement mechanics model of concrete under seawater corrosion
Authors: Chen Tingwei , Chen Jinhan , Chen Jiankang , Lv Yunfeng
Published: May 2024

In this study, the variation in the expansion displacement of concrete samples with different water-cement ratios under five corrosion solutions (single sulfate salt and coupled sulfate-chloride salt) is explored. The expansion displacement evolution of these concrete samples under sulfate corrosion (single salt corrosion) and sulfate-chloride corrosion (double salt corrosion) is comprehensively examined. The results reveal that the continuous accumulation of corrosion damage eventually manifests in the form of expansion displacement. Based on the experimental results and the chemical reaction rate equation of the delayed ettringite formation and Friedel’s salt generation, an evolution model of expansion force is established. According to this model and the Weibull distribution law of damage, a expansion displacement mechanics model is proposed to predict the expansion displacement behavior of concrete under sulfate corrosion as well as combined sulfate-chloride corrosion.
Clinical and histopathological factors for recurrence and metastasis in lacrimal gland adenoid cystic carcinoma in Chinese patients
Authors: Zhou Xiaowen , Feng Yiyi , Yang Yidi , Zong Chunyan , Yu Yilin , Zhu Tianyu , Shi Jiahao , Jia Renbing , Chen Huifang , Li Yimin , Song Xin
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To investigate the association of metabolism-related proteins and clinicopathological features with poor prognosis in lacrimal gland adenoid cystic carcinoma (LGACC).

Methods

Clinicopathological data for 39 Chinese patients with LGACC enrolled were retrospectively analysed. Disease progression included death, recurrence, further nodal metastasis, and distant metastasis. Expression of ASCT2 and GLS1 were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used for risk factor analyses.

Results

At the end of follow-up, 14 patients (35.9%) developed local recurrence, 13 patients (33.3%) developed distant metastasis, 3 patients (7.7%) developed lymph node metastasis, and 9 patients (23.1%) died. Among the 13 patients who developed distant metastasis, lung metastasis was observed in 8 patients (61.5%), the brain in 8 patients (61.5%), and bone in 1 patient (7.7%). ASCT2 was expressed in 16 (57.14%) cases, while GLS1 had high expression in 19 (67.9%) cases. Advanced T category (≥T3), bone erosion, basaloid subtype, and ASCT2 (-) were associated with disease progression. Basaloid subtype was an independent risk factor for local recurrence ( P = 0.028; HR, 12.12; 95% CI, 1.3–111.5). ASCT2(-) was an independent risk factor for distant metastasis ( P = 0.016; HR, 14.46; 95% CI, 1.6–127.5) and was associated with basaloid subtype ( P = 0.019).

Conclusions

For LGACC, ≥T3 category, basaloid subtype, and bone erosion were high-risk predictors. ASCT2(-) was an independent risk factor for distant metastasis, which suggested that it could be a potential biomarker for LGACC.
Nostalgic tourists acquiring resilience and emotional solidarity through self-congruity and functional congruity
Authors: Dai You-De , Yeh Shih-Shuo , Su Le Phuong Thao , Wang Tung-Sheng , Huan Tzung-Cheng
Published: May 2024

From the perspective of stimulus–organism–response theory (S-O-R), this study explores whether self-congruity and functional congruity cause tourists to form positive nostalgic emotions toward heritage destinations and whether the nostalgic emotions elicited by tourists’ experiences at heritage destinations promote their physical and mental health resilience, as well as their emotional solidarity with local residents. Data were collected from Daxi Old Street, Lukang Old Street, and Anping Old Street, located in northern, central, and southern Taiwan, respectively. A total of 959 respondents were collected. The research results reveal that self-congruity and functional congruity positively impact tourists’ nostalgic emotions in heritage destinations. Product involvement does not moderate self-congruity's effect on nostalgia, but it does moderate functional congruity's impact. The study also supports the positive influence of nostalgic emotions on both tourist resilience and emotional solidarity in heritage tourism. These findings are crucial for governments and stakeholders planning and managing heritage tourist destinations.
Psychology Workforce Literacy: A Gap Worth Minding
Authors: Cary Samantha G. , Pritchard Mary E. , Landrum R. Eric
Published: May 2024

The undergraduate psychology major is often one of the most popular choices for bachelor's degree-seeking students. Although national and international organizations are devoted to broad interests, there does not seem to be much coordinated effort—on any level—to comprehend and advocate on behalf of psychology baccalaureates. In this review article, we expand on psychology workforce literacy, focusing on a psychology major's ability to navigate the college-to-career transition. Psychology workforce literacy is more than exploring and knowing the options with a psychology bachelor's degree. It is also about self-confidence to make meaningful decisions about the next steps in one's career path, and many of these ideas emerge from the career development literature. We present ideas about how faculty can prepare undergraduate students with psychological workforce literacy knowledge and skills, curriculum options, and the pedagogical/assessment supports that faculty will need to know that their efforts are effective.
Reconsidering the spectral distribution of light: Do people perceive watts or photons?
Authors: Martinsons C , Behar-Cohen F , Bergen T , Blattner P , Herf M , Gronfier C , Houser K , Jost S , Nilsson Tengelin M , Obein G , Schlangen L , Simonot L , Spitschan M , Torriglia A , Zeitzer J
Published: May 2024

The spectral distribution is a fundamental property of non-monochromatic optical radiation. It is commonly used in research and practical applications when studying how light interacts with matter and living organisms, including humans. In the field of lighting, misconceptions about the spectral distribution of light are responsible for unfounded claims, which pervade the scientific and technical communities. Starting from the definition of the spectral distribution, this paper describes the ambiguities and errors associated with a purely graphical analysis of the spectral distribution. It also emphasizes the importance of considering the particle nature of light in research involving both visual and non-visual effects, which implies using the spectral distribution expressed in the photon system of units, a system that has been seldom used in lighting research for historical reasons. The authors encourage lighting engineers and researchers to determine which system is best suited to their work and then proceed with the correct use of spectral distributions and of spectral weighting functions for applications involving optical radiation.
Cultural Imperialism and Video Game Localization: A Case Study of Revelations: Persona
Authors: Helmke William
Published: May 2024

With increasing focus on global markets for media, video game localization continues to be an essential process for the industry. However, video game localization only sometimes effectively handles the unique cultural elements of video games. In some cases, these localizations intentionally erase such elements to make the game more marketable or remove controversial content in an American cultural context. This article explores the localization of Megami Ibunroku Persona (retitled Revelations: Persona for its U.S. release) and considers how its localization changed various elements to convert the setting from a Japanese city to a U.S. one. Using a Neoformalism-inspired approach to game studies, I analyze playthroughs of both the original Japanese version and the U.S. localization, noting how changes erased cultural uniqueness in the original. Then, from the standpoint of cultural imperialism, I discuss how localization can function as a defense mechanism for limiting the cultural impact of imported media.
Concentrations of harm: Geographic and demographic patterning in human trafficking and related victimisation
Authors: Cockbain Ella , Ashby Matthew , Bowers Kate , Zhang Sheldon X
Published: May 2024

Human trafficking and ‘modern slavery’ cover a wide, varied and poorly delineated range of exploitative practices. Yet, conflating different issues risks obscuring important variation. The geographies of trafficking are surprisingly under-researched, particularly quantitatively. Informed by opportunity theories, we examined geospatial and demographic concentrations in trafficking and related exploitation formally identified in the United Kingdom (UK) over the decade 2009–2019. Taking an exploratory approach, we analysed individual-level data for 26,503 people officially identified as suspected or confirmed victims. Our results reveal a highly complex landscape that likely reflects multiple and intersecting contributing factors, including both systemic drivers and more immediate opportunity structures. Alongside considerable variation overall, we found heavy geographic and demographic concentrations – and notable interactions between variables. Our study emphasises the importance of disaggregation for analysis and responses and underlines the complex systems involved. Limitations notwithstanding, this novel analysis shows the value of large-scale, context-sensitive research into the geographies of trafficking.
The Activity, Composition and Molecular Mechanism of Bothriospermum zeylanicum (Hornem.) Fisch. Et Mey Alleviation of Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhao Xiao-chao , Ge Zhu-mei , Liao Cheng-pu , Zhou Yan-ping , Ji Li , Shang Xun
Published: May 2024

Objective: To study the effect of the ethyl acetate extract of Bothriospermum zeylanicum (Hornem.) Fisch., the active ingredients and mechanism of Et Mey (EAF) in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were explored. Methods: 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay was used to measure the effect of EAF on the proliferation of A549, HL-60, SMMC-7721, MDA-MB-231, and SW480 tumor cells. The components were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and the blood components were retrieved from the constituents absorbed into the blood and metabolites of traditional Chinese medicine (DCABM-TCM) database. The mechanism was determined by network pharmacology and verified by molecular docking. Results: The IC50 values for the proliferation of tumor cell strains were 41.13, 56.72, 36.69, 48.63, and 44.48 μg/mL, respectively. A concentration of 100 μg/mL had the strongest inhibitory effect on A549 cells. A total of 33 chemical components were identified by LC-MS, 7 of which have been reported to have certain anti-NSCLC effects, and a total of 6 blood components were identified using the DCABM-TCM database. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that anti-NSCLC activity mainly involves EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, the HIF-1 signaling pathway and the VEGF signaling pathway. The molecular docking results verified that hesperetin, luteolin, and pinocembrin bind well to the AKT1, IL6, EGFR, BCL2, and CASP3 target proteins. Conclusion: The ethyl acetate fraction of B. zeylanicum (Hornem.) Fisch. Et Mey had obvious ant-non NSCLC activity, which may be related to resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in diabetic complications, and its active ingredients may be hesperetin, luteolin, and pinocembrin.
Generating reality and silencing debate: Synthetic data as discursive device
Authors: Helm Paula , Lipp Benjamin , Pujadas Roser
Published: May 2024

In addition to tapping data from users’ behavioral surplus, by drawing on generative adversarial networks, data for artificial intelligence is now increasingly being generated through artificial intelligence. With this new method of producing data synthetically, the data economy is not only shifting from “data collection” to “data generation.” Synthetic data is also being employed to address some of the most pressing ethical concerns around artificial intelligence. It thereby comes with the sociotechnical imaginary that social problems can be cut out of artificial intelligence, separating training data from real persons. In response to this technical solutionism, this commentary aims to initiate a critical debate about synthetic data that goes beyond misuse scenarios such as the use of generative adversarial networks to create deep fakes or dark patterns. Instead, on a more general level, we seek to complicate the idea of “solving,” i.e., “closing” and thus “silencing” the ethico-political debates for which synthetic data is supposed to be a solution by showing how synthetic data itself is political. Drawing on the complex connections between recent uses of synthetic data and public debates about artificial intelligence, we therefore propose to consider and analyze synthetic data not only as a technical device but as a discursive one as well. To this end, we shed light on their relationship to three pillars that we see associated with them (a) algorithmic bias, (b) privacy, (c) platform economy.
The relationship between therapeutic alliance, frequency of consultation and uptake of telemedicine among patients seeking treatment for early psychosis: A moderated mediation model
Authors: AshaRani PV , Tan Yeow Wee Brian , Samari Ellaisha , Wang Peizhi , Cetty Laxman , Satghare Pratika , Verma Swapna K , Tang Charmaine , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: May 2024

Background

Telehealth services ensure the delivery of healthcare services to a wider range of consumers through online platforms. Nonetheless, the acceptance and uptake of telehealth remain elusive. This study aims to understand the (a) uptake and (b) acceptability of telemedicine, (c) if therapeutic alliance mediates the relationship between the frequency of consultations with clinicians and the uptake of telemedicine in patients with early psychosis, and (d) role of education in moderating the relationship between therapeutic alliance and the uptake of telemedicine for their mental healthcare.

Methods

A convenience sample of outpatients ( n = 109) seeking treatment for early psychosis and their care providers ( n = 106) were recruited from a tertiary psychiatric care centre. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, therapeutic alliance (Working Alliance Inventory), and telemedicine use were captured through self-administered surveys. The moderated mediation analysis was performed using PROCESS macro 3.4.1 with therapeutic alliance and level of education as the mediating and moderating factors, respectively.

Results

The acceptance of telemedicine was high (possibly will use: 47.7%; definitely will use: 26.6%) whilst the uptake was low (11%). Therapeutic alliance mediated the relationship between the frequency of consultation and the uptake of telemedicine ( β: 0.326; CI: 0.042, 0.637). This effect was moderated by the level of education ( β: −0.058; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Therapeutic alliance mediates the relationship between the frequency of consultations and the uptake of telemedicine services with the level of education moderating this mediation. Focusing on the patients with lower education to improve their telemedicine knowledge and therapeutic alliance might increase the uptake.
Optimizing lung cancer classification through hyperparameter tuning
Authors: Nabeel Syed Muhammad , Bazai Sibghat Ullah , Alasbali Nada , Liu Yifan , Ghafoor Muhammad Imran , Khan Rozi , Ku Chin Soon , Yang Jing , Shahab Sana , Por Lip Yee
Published: May 2024

Artificial intelligence is steadily permeating various sectors, including healthcare. This research specifically addresses lung cancer, the world's deadliest disease with the highest mortality rate. Two primary factors contribute to its onset: genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as smoking and exposure to pollutants. Recognizing the need for more effective diagnosis techniques, our study embarked on devising a machine learning strategy tailored to boost precision in lung cancer detection. Our aim was to devise a diagnostic method that is both less invasive and cost-effective. To this end, we proposed four methods, benchmarking them against prevalent techniques using a universally recognized dataset from Kaggle. Among our methods, one emerged as particularly promising, outperforming the competition in accuracy, precision and sensitivity. This method utilized hyperparameter tuning, focusing on the Gamma and C parameters, which were set at a value of 10. These parameters influence kernel width and regularization strength, respectively. As a result, we achieved an accuracy of 99.16%, a precision of 98% and a sensitivity rate of 100%. In conclusion, our enhanced prediction mechanism has proven to surpass traditional and contemporary strategies in lung cancer detection.
YouTube as a source of information for cryptococcal infection: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Liao Kaijun , Feng Zhiqiang , Lu Dongli , Xia Jianping , Wu Zhaochun , Jiang Zhenghua , Chen Kun , Qiu Hongqiang
Published: May 2024

Objective

Immunocompromised individuals, particularly HIV patients, worldwide are at risk from cryptococcal infection. There are a number of videos of cryptococcal infection and more and more individuals may search these videos, but the quality of videos on YouTube is unclear. This study set out to assess the content and quality of YouTube videos regarding cryptococcal infection.

Methods

The keywords “ Cryptococcus,” “Cryptococcosis” and “Cryptococcal infection” were searched on YouTube. The videos were evaluated and graded by two impartial raters. A 14-point content score was used to categorize videos as bad, good or exceptional. The reliability and quality were evaluated utilizing the DISCERN instrument and a 5-point global quality score. Videos were then divided into groups based on uploading sources and content types.

Results

A total of 46 videos were located, and the ratings provided by the two raters were identical. Our scoring algorithm determined that 54.3% (n = 25), 32.6% (n = 15) and 13.0% (n = 6) of the videos were poor, decent and exceptional, respectively. Regarding quality, no difference was identified between the various video categories. The global quality scale, number of views, days posted, content score and DISCERN showed a significant positive relationship.

Conclusions

Professional individuals or healthcare organizations should be encouraged to submit high-quality videos for the expanding internet population, as only a small proportion of available videos had exceptional quality.
Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Self-Esteem among Nursing Students
Authors: Bsharat Fekry
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Nursing students must be able to detect the standpoints and demands of various sorts of individuals, as well as be competent in taking into account individual emotional reactions, self-confidence, stress management, and social role promotion.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between emotional intelligence and self-esteem among fourth-year nursing students.

Methods

The study was a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 225 nursing students through a convenience sampling method in spring 2023 at Arab American University. The instruments of the study included “Schutte Self Report Emotional Intelligence Test” and the “Rosenberg self-esteem scale.”

Results

The analysis indicated that the emotional intelligence mean was 151.3 ± 1.9 (ranging from 33 to 165), which is high. Also, the analysis indicated that the self-esteem of the nursing students was high 24.3 ± 3.5 (ranging from 0 to 30). Furthermore, the analysis showed that there was a moderately positive relationship between nurses’ emotional intelligence and self-esteem.

Conclusion

The emotional intelligence and self-esteem among fourth-year nursing students were high. Also, self-esteem was found to have a moderately positive relationship with emotional intelligence and utilizing emotions.
Understanding everyday water experiences through flows: A feminist political ecology take on household metabolism
Authors: Fragkou Maria Christina
Published: May 2024

At a time of growing threats to global freshwater availability, urban water supply is becoming increasingly challenging, affecting water security for urban populations. Alternative water sources, technologies, and supply methods are employed to complement dwindling continental water sources and guarantee the human right to water. However, the related research reports that such solutions can exacerbate inequalities and jeopardise water security for the most vulnerable groups. There is therefore a need to delve into household dynamics and practices in order to detect the drawbacks of the water supply solutions implemented as part of sociotechnical transitions or climate change adaptation measures. The present article contributes by proposing a flexible framework for evaluating household water dynamics and everyday experiences based on the urban metabolism metaphor and enriched with feminist political ecology and critical literature on water security. The framework builds upon typical water balance accounts and is supplemented with information on (a) the source, price, continuity and pressure of all types of water consumed domestically; (b) the consumer’s relationship with water, that is, whether people trust each water source, whether they accept its organoleptic characteristics (flavor, odor, and transparency), and whether they fear that consuming water may have negative health impacts; and (c) the actions that people employ to improve tap water quality for drinking, thus allowing the calculation of indirect costs and impacts associated with inadequate water quality. Results indicate that lower-income households metabolise water of lower quality and do so more slowly than high-income households. Furthermore, the actions they take to improve water quality involve more effort, higher monetary costs, additional energy consumption, and greater health impacts compared to higher-income groups.
Anterior Opening-Wedge Proximal Tibial Osteotomy for Slope Correction of Genu Recurvatum
Authors: Dirnberger Jack , Homan Morgan D. , Kennedy Nicholas I. , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Symptomatic genu recurvatum is defined as greater than 5° of knee hyperextension and can be caused by osseous deformity, soft tissue laxity, or a combination. Common symptoms include pain, weakness, instability, decreased range of motion, leg length discrepancy, and stretching of the posterior capsuloligamentous structures of the knee. In instances where the genu recurvatum is caused by reverse tibial slope, literature supports the use of anterior opening-wedge proximal tibial osteotomy (OW PTO) to treat genu recurvatum by increasing tibial slope. Correction of anterior slope to a more anatomic, posterior orientation allows any stressed ligaments to return to their normal tension and restores the native biomechanics of the knee.

Indications:

The primary indication for OW PTO is genu recurvatum that is nonresponsive to physical therapy or genu recurvatum with concurrent ligamentous injury. The heel-height test provides an objective assessment for the identification and measurement of knee hyperextension.

Technique Description:

2 guide pins are placed parallel to the tibial plateau, engaging the posterior cortex. A small micro sagittal saw is used to cut the anterior cortex. Osteotomes are used to complete the osteotomy, preserving a posterior hinge. An opening spreader device is placed and opened slowly while keeping the posterior cortex intact. The new slope is maintained by use of an opening wedge osteotomy plate and screws. Allograft bone graft is packed thoroughly into the osteotomy site. Fluoroscopy is used throughout the case to assess appropriate orientation and depth of the osteotomy, as well as the final opening width.

Results:

A review of 5 studies demonstrated adequate reduction in hyperextension, with a mean knee hyperextension ranging from 17° to 32° preoperatively and 0° to 7° postoperatively. Patients had significantly improved postoperative clinical outcomes compared with the preoperative state.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Anterior OW PTO has been shown to be a safe method of accurately correcting tibial plateau slope for the treatment of genu recurvatum. Patients can expect correction of knee hyperextension, restoration of anatomic posterior tibial slope, decreased posterior tibial translation, and increased subjective outcome scores.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attest that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Cytokine profiling in 128 patients with transient abnormal myelopoiesis: a report from the JPLSG TAM-10 trial
Authors: Yamato Genki , Tsumura Yusuke , Muramatsu Hideki , Shimada Akira , Imaizumi Takahiro , Tsukagoshi Hiroyuki , Kaburagi Taeko , Shiba Norio , Yamada Yoshiyuki , Deguchi Takao , Kawai Tomoko , Terui Kiminori , Ito Etsuro , Watanabe Kenichiro , Hayashi Yasuhide
Published: May 2024

Transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM) occurs in 10% of neonates with Down syndrome (DS). Although most patients show spontaneous resolution of TAM, early death occurs in ∼20% of cases. Therefore, new biomarkers are needed to predict early death and determine therapeutic interventions. This study aimed to determine the association between clinical characteristics and cytokine levels in patients with TAM. A total of 128 patients with DS with TAM enrolled in the TAM-10 study conducted by the Japanese Pediatric Leukemia/Lymphoma Study Group were included in this study. Five cytokine levels (interleukin-1b [IL-1b], IL-1 receptor agonist, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-13) were significantly higher in patients with early death than in those with nonearly death. Cumulative incidence rates (CIRs) of early death were significantly associated with high levels of the 5 cytokines. Based on unsupervised consensus clustering, patients were classified into 3 cytokine groups: hot-1 (n = 37), hot-2 (n = 42), and cold (n = 49). The CIR of early death was significantly different between the cytokine groups (hot-1/2, n = 79; cold, n = 49; hot-1/2 CIR, 16.5% [95% confidence interval (CI), 7.9-24.2]; cold CIR, 2.0% [95% CI, 0.0-5.9]; P = .013). Furthermore, cytokine groups (hot-1/2 vs cold) were independent poor prognostic factors in the multivariable analysis for early death (hazard ratio, 15.53; 95% CI, 1.434-168.3; P = .024). These results provide valuable information that cytokine level measurement was useful in predicting early death in patients with TAM and might help to determine the need for therapeutic interventions. This trial was registered at UMIN Clinical Trials Registry as #UMIN000005418.
Pangenome characterization and analysis of the NAC gene family reveals genes for Sclerotinia sclerotiorum resistance in sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Authors: Lu Yan , Liu Dongqi , Kong Xiangjiu , Song Yang , Jing Lan
Published: May 2024

Background

Sunflower (Helianthusannuus) is one of the most important economic crops in oilseed production worldwide. The different cultivars exhibit variability in their resistance genes. The NAC transcription factor (TF) family plays diverse roles in plant development and stress responses. With the completion of the H. annuus genome sequence, the entire complement of genes coding for NACs has been identified. However, the reference genome of a single individual cannot cover all the genetic information of the species.

Results

Considering only a single reference genome to study gene families will miss many meaningful genes. A pangenome-wide survey and characterization of the NAC genes in sunflower species were conducted. In total, 139 HaNAC genes are identified, of which 114 are core and 25 are variable. Phylogenetic analysis of sunflower NAC proteins categorizes these proteins into 16 subgroups. 138 HaNACs are randomly distributed on 17 chromosomes. SNP-based haplotype analysis shows haplotype diversity of the HaNAC genes in wild accessions is richer than in landraces and modern cultivars. Ten HaNAC genes in the basal stalk rot (BSR) resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL) are found. A total of 26 HaNAC genes are differentially expressed in response to Sclerotinia head rot (SHR). A total of 137 HaNAC genes are annotated in Gene Ontology (GO) and are classified into 24 functional groups. GO functional enrichment analysis reveals that HaNAC genes are involved in various functions of the biological process.

Conclusions

We identified NAC genes in H. annuus (HaNAC) on a pangenome-wide scale and analyzed S. sclerotiorum resistance-related NACs. This study provided a theoretical basis for further genomic improvement targeting resistance-related NAC genes in sunflowers.
Annotations of four high-quality indigenous chicken genomes identify more than one thousand missing genes in subtelomeric regions and micro-chromosomes with high G/C contents
Authors: Wu Siwen , Dou Tengfei , Yuan Sisi , Yan Shixiong , Xu Zhiqiang , Liu Yong , Jian Zonghui , Zhao Jingying , Zhao Rouhan , Zi Xiannian , Gu Dahai , Liu Lixian , Li Qihua , Wu Dong-Dong , Jia Junjing , Ge Changrong , Su Zhengchang , Wang Kun
Published: May 2024

Background

Although multiple chicken genomes have been assembled and annotated, the numbers of protein-coding genes in chicken genomes and their variation among breeds are still uncertain due to the low quality of these genome assemblies and limited resources used in their gene annotations. To fill these gaps, we recently assembled genomes of four indigenous chicken breeds with distinct traits at chromosome-level. In this study, we annotated genes in each of these assembled genomes using a combination of RNA-seq- and homology-based approaches.

Results

We identified varying numbers (17,497–17,718) of protein-coding genes in the four indigenous chicken genomes, while recovering 51 of the 274 “missing” genes in birds in general, and 36 of the 174 “missing” genes in chickens in particular. Intriguingly, based on deeply sequenced RNA-seq data collected in multiple tissues in the four breeds, we found 571 ~ 627 protein-coding genes in each genome, which were missing in the annotations of the reference chicken genomes (GRCg6a and GRCg7b/w). After removing redundancy, we ended up with a total of 1,420 newly annotated genes (NAGs). The NAGs tend to be found in subtelomeric regions of macro-chromosomes (chr1 to chr5, plus chrZ) and middle chromosomes (chr6 to chr13, plus chrW), as well as in micro-chromosomes (chr14 to chr39) and unplaced contigs, where G/C contents are high. Moreover, the NAGs have elevated quadruplexes G frequencies, while both G/C contents and quadruplexes G frequencies in their surrounding regions are also high. The NAGs showed tissue-specific expression, and we were able to verify 39 (92.9%) of 42 randomly selected ones in various tissues of the four chicken breeds using RT-qPCR experiments. Most of the NAGs were also encoded in the reference chicken genomes, thus, these genomes might harbor more genes than previously thought.

Conclusion

The NAGs are widely distributed in wild, indigenous and commercial chickens, and they might play critical roles in chicken physiology. Counting these new genes, chicken genomes harbor more genes than originally thought.
Ocular A-to-I RNA editing signatures associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Jin Yun-Yun , Liang Ya-Ping , Huang Wen-Hao , Guo Liang , Cheng Li-Li , Ran Tian-Tian , Yao Jin-Ping , Zhu Lin , Chen Jian-Huan
Published: May 2024

Ophthalmic manifestations have recently been observed in acute and post-acute complications of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our precious study has shown that host RNA editing is linked to RNA viral infection, yet ocular adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing during SARS-CoV-2 infection remains uninvestigated in COVID-19. Herein we used an epitranscriptomic pipeline to analyze 37 samples and investigate A-to-I editing associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, in five ocular tissue types including the conjunctiva, limbus, cornea, sclera, and retinal organoids. Our results revealed dramatically altered A-to-I RNA editing across the five ocular tissues. Notably, the transcriptome-wide average level of RNA editing was increased in the cornea but generally decreased in the other four ocular tissues. Functional enrichment analysis showed that differential RNA editing (DRE) was mainly in genes related to ubiquitin-dependent protein catabolic process, transcriptional regulation, and RNA splicing. In addition to tissue-specific RNA editing found in each tissue, common RNA editing was observed across different tissues, especially in the innate antiviral immune gene MAVS and the E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase MDM2. Analysis in retinal organoids further revealed highly dynamic RNA editing alterations over time during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study thus suggested the potential role played by RNA editing in ophthalmic manifestations of COVID-19, and highlighted its potential transcriptome impact, especially on innate immunity.
Cis-eQTLs in seven duck tissues identify novel candidate genes for growth and carcass traits
Authors: Cai Wentao , Hu Jian , Zhang Yunsheng , Guo Zhanbao , Zhou Zhengkui , Hou Shuisheng
Published: May 2024

Background

Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) studies aim to understand the influence of genetic variants on gene expression. The colocalization of eQTL mapping and GWAS strategy could help identify essential candidate genes and causal DNA variants vital to complex traits in human and many farm animals. However, eQTL mapping has not been conducted in ducks. It is desirable to know whether eQTLs within GWAS signals contributed to duck economic traits.

Results

In this study, we conducted an eQTL analysis using publicly available RNA sequencing data from 820 samples, focusing on liver, muscle, blood, adipose, ovary, spleen, and lung tissues. We identified 113,374 cis-eQTLs for 12,266 genes, a substantial fraction 39.1% of which were discovered in at least two tissues. The cis-eQTLs of blood were less conserved across tissues, while cis-eQTLs from any tissue exhibit a strong sharing pattern to liver tissue. Colocalization between cis-eQTLs and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of 50 traits uncovered new associations between gene expression and potential loci influencing growth and carcass traits. SRSF4, GSS, and IGF2BP1 in liver, NDUFC2 in muscle, ELF3 in adipose, and RUNDC1 in blood could serve as the candidate genes for duck growth and carcass traits.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight substantial differences in genetic regulation of gene expression across duck primary tissues, shedding light on potential mechanisms through which candidate genes may impact growth and carcass traits. Furthermore, this availability of eQTL data offers a valuable resource for deciphering further genetic association signals that may arise from ongoing extensive endeavors aimed at enhancing duck production traits.
Myrosinase isogenes in wasabi (Wasabia japonica Matsum) and their putative roles in glucosinolate metabolism
Authors: Truong To Quyen , Park Yun Ji , Jeon Je-Seung , Choi Jaeyoung , Koo Song Yi , Choi Yeong Bin , Huynh Phuong Kim , Moon Jinyoung , Kim Sang Min
Published: May 2024

Background

Wasabi, a Brassicaceae member, is well-known for its unique pungent and hot flavor which is produced from glucosinolate (GSL) degradation. Myrosinase (MYR) is a principle enzyme catalyzing the primary conversion of GSLs to GSL hydrolysis products (GHPs) which is responsible for plant defense system and food quality. Due to the limited information in relation to MYRs present in wasabi (Wasabia japonica M.), this study aimed to identify the MYR isogenes in W. japonica and analyze their roles in relation to GSL metabolism.

Results

In results, WjMYRI-1 was abundantly expressed in all organs, whereas WjMYRI-2 showed only trace expression levels. WjMYRII was highly expressed in the aboveground tissues. Interestingly, WjMYRII expression was significantly upregulated by certain abiotic factors, such as methyl jasmonate (more than 40-fold in petioles and 15-fold in leaves) and salt (tenfold in leaves). Young leaves and roots contained 97.89 and 91.17 µmol‧g−1 of GSL, whereas less GSL was produced in mature leaves and petioles (38.36 and 44.79 µmol‧g−1, respectively). Similar pattern was observed in the accumulation of GHPs in various plant organs. Notably, despite the non-significant changes in GSL production, abiotic factors treated samples enhanced significantly GHP content. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed that WjMYRI-1 expression significantly correlated with GSL accumulation and GHP formation, suggesting the primary role of WjMYRI-1-encoding putative protein in GSL degradation. In contrast, WjMYRII expression level showed no correlation with GSL or GHP content, suggesting another physiological role of WjMYRII in stress-induced response.

Conclusions

In conclusions, three potential isogenes (WjMYRI-1, WjMYRI-2, and WjMYRII) encoding for different MYR isoforms in W. japonica were identified. Our results provided new insights related to MYR and GSL metabolism which are important for the implications of wasabi in agriculture, food and pharmaceutical industry. Particularly, WjMYRI-1 may be primarily responsible for GSL degradation, whereas WjMYRII (clade II) may be involved in other regulatory pathways induced by abiotic factors.
Association between plasma metal exposure and health span in very elderly adults: a prospective cohort study with mixture statistical approach
Authors: Ye Xiaoying , Xu Tingting , Yang Le , Hu Xiangju , Xie Xiaowei , Lan Guohui , Lu Xiaoli , Huang Zelin , Wang Tinggui , Wu Jieyu , Lan Jieli , Zhang Qian , Zhan Zhiying , Guo Yansong , Xie Xiaoxu
Published: May 2024

Background

Metals have been linked to a diverse spectrum of age-related diseases; however, the effects of metal exposure on health span remains largely unknown. This cohort study aims to determine the association between plasma metal and health span in elder adults aged ≥ 90 years.

Methods

The plasma concentrations of seven metals were measured at baseline in 300 elder adults. The end of the health span (EHS) was identified as the occurrence of one of eight major morbidities or mortality events. We used Cox regression to assess hazard ratios (HR). The combined effects of multiple metal mixtures were estimated using grouped-weighted quantile sum (GWQS), quantile g-computation (Q-gcomp), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) methods.

Results

The estimated HR for EHS with an inter-quartile range (IQR) increment for selenium (Se) was 0.826 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.737–0.926); magnesium (Mg), 0.806 (95% CI: 0.691–0.941); iron (Fe), 0.756 (95% CI: 0.623–0.917), and copper (Cu), 0.856 (95% CI: 0.750–0.976). The P for trend of Se, Mg, and Fe were all < 0.05. In the mixture analyses, Q-gcomp showed a negative correlation with EHS (P = 0.904), with the sum of the negative coefficients being -0.211.

Conclusion

Higher plasma Se, Mg, and Fe reduced the risk of premature end of health span, suggesting that essential metal elements played a role in health maintenance in elder adults.
Association of serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D concentration and risk of mortality in cancer survivors in the United States
Authors: Mo Xiaofei , He Chen , Han Fengfeng , Yan Hui , Chen Xueqin , Wang Yuetao , Zhou Mingge
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Cancer survivors have a high risk of mortality, and vitamin D (VD) is associated with the risk of mortality. This study is aim to examine the impact of VD on mortality in cancer survivors.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were obtained information on their baseline characteristics, dietary habits, comorbidities, lifestyle, and serum 25-hydroxy VD [25(OH)D] concentrations. The weighted Cox proportional hazard and competing risk regression models were used to estimate the hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals (HR, 95% CI) of mortality for different serum 25(OH)D concentrations. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves were utilized to illustrate the dose–response relationship between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and mortality.

Results

The study encompassed 2,495 participants with cancer diagnoses. Multivariate models indicated that, compared to serum 25(OH)D concentrations below 58.5 nmol/L, concentrations exceeding 81.6 nmol/L were associated with reduced HRs for all-cause mortality (HR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.56–0.87), cardiovascular mortality (HR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.32–0.86), and cancer-specific mortality (HR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.45–0.99). RCS curves revealed “L-shaped” associations between serum 25(OH)D concentration and both all-cause and cancer-specific mortality, with threshold effects at 87.9 nmol/L and 84.6 nmol/L, respectively. Conversely, the relationship between serum 25(OH)D concentration and cardiovascular mortality exhibited a more linear pattern, with a threshold at 88.7 nmol/L. Subgroup analyses highlighted a gender-specific interaction that elevated serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly more protective against mortality in males than in females, especially regarding cancer-specific mortality (P-interaction = 0.009).

Conclusion

Elevated serum 25(OH)D concentrations were correlated with decreased risks of all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer-specific mortality in cancer survivors, with benefit thresholds at 87.9, 88.7, and 84.6 nmol/L, respectively. These findings suggested that cancer survivors might benefit from higher vitamin D recommendations than the general population.
Addressing loneliness and social isolation in 52 countries: a scoping review of National policies
Authors: Goldman Nina , Khanna Devi , El Asmar Marie Line , Qualter Pamela , El-Osta Austen
Published: May 2024

Background

Even prior to the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was ample evidence that loneliness and social isolation negatively impacted physical and mental health, employability, and are a financial burden on the state. In response, there has been significant policy-level attention on tackling loneliness. The objective of this scoping review was to conduct a loneliness policy landscape analysis across 52 countries of the UN European country groups. Our policy analysis sought to highlight commonalities and differences between the different national approaches to manage loneliness, with the goal to provide actionable recommendations for the consideration of policymakers wishing to develop, expand or review existing loneliness policies.

Methods

We searched governmental websites using the Google search engine for publicly available documents related to loneliness and social isolation. Seventy-eight documents were identified in total, from which 23 documents were retained. Exclusion of documents was based on predetermined criteria. A structured content analysis approach was used to capture key information from the policy documents. Contextual data were captured in a configuration matrix to highlight common and unique themes.

Results

We could show that most policies describe loneliness as a phenomenon that was addressed to varying degrees in different domains such as social, health, geographical, economic and political. Limited evidence was found regarding funding for suggested interventions. We synthesised actionable recommendations for the consideration of policy makers focusing on the use of language, prioritisation of interventions, revisiting previous campaigns, sharing best practice across borders, setting out a vision, evaluating interventions, and the need for the rapid and sustainable scalability of interventions.

Conclusions

Our study provides the first overview of the national loneliness policy landscape, highlighting the increasing prioritisation of loneliness and social isolation as a major public health and societal issue. Our findings suggest that policymakers can sustain this momentum and strengthen their strategies by incorporating rigorous, evidence-based intervention evaluations and fostering international collaborations for knowledge sharing. We believe that policymakers can more effectively address loneliness by directing funds to develop and implement interventions that impact the individual, the community and society.
Exploring pre-pandemic patterns of vaccine decision-making with the 5C model: results from representative surveys in 2016 and 2018
Authors: Eitze Sarah , Felgendreff Lisa , Horstkötter Nina , Seefeld Linda , Betsch Cornelia
Published: May 2024

Background

The 5C psychological antecedents of vaccination (Confidence, Complacency, Constraints, Calculation, and Collective Responsibility) facilitate understanding vaccination decisions in specific target groups as well as the general public’s informational needs. This study aims to explain pre-pandemic vaccination behaviour (a) in general, (b) for specific vaccines such as influenza, and (c) for certain target groups (e.g. people over the age of 59 years, parents, healthcare workers), using the 5C model and sociodemographic variables. The intention to get an influenza vaccination was also analysed for target groups.

Methods

The 5C, self-reported vaccination behaviour and the intention to vaccinate were collected in two representative telephone surveys in Germany – one in 2016 (n1 = 5,012) and another in 2018 (n2 = 5,054). Parents, people over the age of 59 years, chronically ill people, people with a migratory background, pregnant women and healthcare workers were target groups.

Results

Overall, the 5C model had higher explanatory power than sociodemographic variables. The pattern of vaccine hesitancy slightly differed between vaccinations and target groups. Confidence in safety and effectiveness was always a significant predictor. Complacency (the underestimation of disease risks) and Constraints were significant predictors as well. Calculation (of risks and benefits) was important for influenza vaccination intentions.

Conclusions

This work builds an important benchmark for understanding potential changes in vaccine acceptance due to the pandemic. The benchmark can be used in research on potential effects of the pandemic on vaccination behaviours. Intervention designers can also use the results to understand specific audiences and their vaccination decisions.