bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wastewater effluents analysis from sustainable algae-based blue dyeing with phycocyanin
Authors: Moldovan Simona , Bou-Belda Eva , Franco Esther , Ferrandiz Marcela , Gisbert-Payá Jaime , Díaz-García Pablo , Pascual Javier , Bonet-Aracil Marilés
Published: September 2022

Sustainability in the textile industry is a challenge with an imminent need to be tackled. One approach can be focused on replacing fossil-based dyes with renewable and less polluting alternatives. In this sense, this study focuses on validating the suitability of an innovative natural-based blue dye, phycocyanin, sourced from Spirulina platensis microalgae. The laboratory-based experimental approach envisages the exhaustion dyeing of pre-mordanted cotton and bleached wool with phycocyanin-rich extract, representing the sustainable blue dye. The color characterization of naturally blue-dyed fabrics was performed via CIE Lab coordinates, depth of color by color stregth valures ( K/S), values of dye exhaustion, and colorfastness to laundering and light. The results indicate suitable dyeability with the natural blue dye, with process improvements a possibility. The main environmental character of this process was analyzed from the dyeing effluent characterization perspective. Measurements of chemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand, and metal content were performed on effluents resulting from dyeing processes with variable parameters, to analyze the influence of mordant use, process temperature, time, and pH. Findings indicate that the application of optimum dyeing process conditions results in the lowest oxygen demand values, suitable for further wastewater reuse, according to international industrial effluent limitations. The biological fungi wastewater treatment resulted in the reduction of biochemical oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand values by around 80%, comparable with the industrial process, validating the sustainable character of using algae-based phycocyanin in the bath exhaustion dyeing process.
Agricultural infrastructures: Land, race, and statecraft in Turkey
Authors: Adalet Begüm
Published: September 2022

This article argues that biopolitical infrastructures have been central features of Turkey’s ongoing colonization of Kurdish territories and populations and that the Green Revolution, despite its promise of progress and abundance, needs to be understood as part of this history of racialized state-making. In doing so, it joins recent literature that uncovers the local roots of the Green Revolution in domestic politics and land struggles in the global south, also revealing the entwined histories of accumulation and colonial and racial dispossession with agricultural norms and practices. Drawing on research in the records of the Economic Cooperation Administration, US Agency for International Development, Rockefeller Foundation Archives, Turkish parliamentary debates, and contemporaneous journals, I show how the Green Revolution can in fact be retold as an episode in a longer history of struggles over the distribution and use of land, the construction of agricultural infrastructures, and how these questions have been complicated by class, ethnic, racial, gender, and political divisions. The paper thus situates Turkey in a transnational history of agrarian development, while also relating the adoption of high yield seeds, pesticides, and grain cultivation to projects of land consolidation, internal colonialism, and racialized methods of state formation.
Not “proper” foreign national prisoners: Irish ex-prisoner reflections on imprisonment in England and Wales
Authors: Gavin Paul
Published: September 2022

Irish prisoners are one of the oldest minority groups and one of the most represented foreign national groups in the prison system, yet little is known about their experiences of imprisonment in England and Wales. This article presents findings from 29 semi-structured interviews with Irish ex-prisoners who were asked to reflect on their time in prison in England and Wales. It utilises Ugelvik and Damsa’s findings on foreign national prisoner experiences in Norway as related to discrimination, long-distance relationships, and deportability as a point of analysis. This paper shows that Irish prisoners suffer the pains of discrimination through racism, bullying, and discrimination from prisoners and prison officers, and there are concerns over mistreatment by prison officers who are ex-military. There are also difficulties associated with family contact. As Irish prisoners are not subject to deportation, except in the most exceptional circumstances, and since there is no language barrier, this paper suggests that Irish prisoners might not seen as “proper” foreign nationals in the prison system. This may result in Irish prisoners being somewhat invisible in the prison system in England and Wales and in some cases having their nationality and national identity denied.
Coexpression of lymphocyte-activation gene 3 and programmed death ligand-1 in tumor infiltrating immune cells predicts worse outcome in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Lee Chan Ho , Jung Soo Jin , Seo Won Ik , Chung Jae Il , Lee Dae Sim , Jeong Dae Hoon , Jeon Youkyoung , Choi Inhak
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3) represents a potential immune checkpoint target for cancer treatment. We investigated LAG-3 expression and its prognostic value in patients with surgically treated clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and correlated LAG-3 expression with programmed cell death ligand 1(PD-L1).

Methods

We evaluated LAG-3 and PD-L1 expression using immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays incorporating 134 primary excision specimens of clear cell RCC (ccRCC). The patients were analyzed as two groups: the whole cohort and those with metastatic RCC (mRCC). The cancer genome atlas (TCGA) data analysis of LAG-3 was done through UALCAN web servers.

Results

Using the UALCAN cancer transcriptional data analysis, we found that LAG-3 was overexpressed in ccRCC. LAG-3 expression was significantly correlated with PD-L1 expression in the whole cohort and in the mRCC group (all, p < 0.05). Both LAG-3⁺ RCC and PD-L1⁺ RCC presented with a higher TNM stage and higher Fuhrman nuclear grade (all, p < 0.05). PD-L1⁺/LAG-3⁺ RCC and PD-L1⁻/LAG-3⁺ RCC showed poorer cancer-specific survival (CSS) than PD-L1⁻/LAG-3⁻ RCC (all, p = 0.01). Similarly, PD-L1⁺/LAG-3⁺ mRCC and PD-L1⁻/LAG-3⁺ mRCC showed poorer CSS than PD-L1⁻/LAG-3⁻ mRCC (all, p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that PD-L1⁺/LAG-3⁺ mRCC (hazard ratio: 3.19; 95% CI: 0.77–13.67; p = 0.033) was a predictor of poor CSS.

Conclusion

Both LAG-3⁺ and PD-L1⁺ RCC have adverse pathological features, and their coexpression predicts worse clinical outcomes. Our findings suggest LAG-3 blockade in combination with programmed cell death 1/PD-L1 blockade as a potential therapeutic approach for RCC.
Nonlinear dynamic characteristics of full-ceramic motorized spindle considering axial transfer of unbalanced magnetic pull
Authors: Ke Zhang , Liqi Zhang , Zhan Wang , Liuwang Gao
Published: September 2022

Full-ceramic motorized spindle is suitable for high-grade CNC machine tool due to its high stiffness and wear resistance, while axial transfer of unbalanced magnetic pull (UMP) caused by reverse magnetic characteristic leads to random vibration at the shaft end. In order to investigate the nonlinear dynamics of full-ceramic motorized spindles under the influence of reverse magnetic, a five-degree-of-freedom dynamic model of bearing-rotor system considering the axial transfer of UMP is constructed. The improved transfer matrix method is proposed to establish the axial transfer model of UMP and the vibration mode of the shaft is obtained. The dynamic characteristics of the bearing-rotor system are analyzed considering the effect of UMP. The magnetic field density and vibration characteristics of the motorized spindle system is studied, and the full-ceramic motorized spindle shaft influence of UMP axial transfer, the vibration of the rotor tends to decrease from inward to outward, while the shaft end vibration also tends to increase gradually with the increase of rotation speed and eccentricity value. The results show that the vibration of ceramic shaft end is 55.4% weaker than that of metal shaft end. It can be seen that under the action of the diamagnetic property, UMP transfer occurs on the ceramic shaft, which reduces the vibration. The experiments show that the average error between the calculated value and the experimental result is 8.5% at the operating speed, which verifies the accuracy of the model developed in this paper.
Sleep Deprivation Among School-Going Adolescents in an Urban Setting in Kerala (India); Descriptive Study
Authors: Zacharia George , Sreenivasan Priya , Iyer Gayathri S. , Reghunath Anakha , Shajahan Muhammod Rishad
Published: September 2022

Objectives:

To study the prevalence of sleep deprivation (SLD) and associated risk factors among school-going adolescents of 9th to 12th grades (13-18 years) in an urban setting in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.

Study Design:

Descriptive, cross-sectional study.

Methodology:

The participants were selected through random sampling. Self-administered structured questionnaire focusing on sleep habits, study habits, before bed screen-time, and parental sleep habits was administered to them. Weight and height were measured to calculate Body Mass Index.

Results:

Out of the 426 students, 29 were excluded and 302 students (76.07%) had SLD. Mean age was 15.79 years (standard deviation: 1.23). Univariate analysis showed adolescents above 15 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2203, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.380-3.517), students of 11th and 12th (OR = 2.205, 95% CI: 1.380-3.523), sleeping after 10 PM (OR = 19.617, 95% CI: 10.586-36.355), waking up before 6 AM (OR = 2.586, 95% CI: 1.554-4.304), sleeping after parents (OR = 2.356, 95% CI: 1.415-3.922) had significant risk. On multivariate analysis, students of 11th and 12th (adjusted OR [aOR] = 3.197, 95% CI: 1.107-9.234), going to bed after 10 PM(aOR = 51.49, 95% CI: 20.211-131.180), waking up before 6 AM (aOR = 51.49, 95% CI: 20.211-131.180), and sleeping after parents (aOR = 1.927, 95% CI: 1.011-3.673) were significant.

Conclusion:

Prevalence of SLD among adolescents aged 13 to 18 years was 76.07%. Higher secondary classes, going to sleep after 10 PM, waking up before 6 AM, and sleeping after parents had significant SLD. Good sleep habits can be promoted by including their importance in school curriculum.
Production of ostrich meat pâtés: Design of a food safety management system
Authors: Manap Kalima , Serikkyzy Mira
Published: September 2022

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in ostrich breeding, and the commercial breeding of these birds has attracted the attention of new breeders, and it has become a great alternative to agricultural production. The study on the production of pâtés was conducted in 2019 in Almaty (Kazakhstan). During the formation of two new formulations of pâtés, the following safety system parameters were taken into account: microflora development; oxidation number (intensity of oxidation products accumulation). The aim of the study is to obtain the optimal characteristics of ostrich meat preservation in the production of pâtés. As a result of the study, it was found that ostrich meat samples have high nutritional value. Meat is characterized by a high content of protein, low content of fat, and carbohydrates are almost absent. Also, it was found that concentration of arachidonic acid in ostrich meat was 3 times higher as compared to beef (p ≤ 0.05). Therefore, the introduction of inulin and carrageenan polysaccharides into the recipe of ostrich pâtés allows one to significantly improve their shelf life and based on the developed recipe it is possible to start the production of pâtés.
More aggressive, more retweets? Exploring the effects of aggressive climate change messages on Twitter
Authors: Yuan Shupei , Chen Yingying , Vojta Sophia , Chen Yu
Published: September 2022

Although an increasing amount of aggressive and polarized tweets about climate change are being observed, little is known about how they spread on Twitter. This study focuses on how different types of network gatekeepers use aggressive styles and how the styles affect their propagation. The current study employed a computational method and identified 951 influential accounts from 7.25 million tweets about climate change in 2019 and 2020. We analyzed their use of aggression and politicized cues, and the relationship with the volume of retweets. Results showed that even though aggressive tweets were a small portion of the overall tweets about climate change, aggressive tweets were more likely to be politicized and retweeted. Specifically, aggressive tweets from politicians received the most retweets and news media amplified the aggression. The findings of this study build upon the current knowledge of the use of aggression online and provide practical implications for environmental communicators.
Student engagement, pedagogical imaginaries and the future of arts and humanities teaching and learning in higher education
Authors: Hughes Neil
Published: September 2022

This article sets out a methodology for integrating a focus on the student voice in deliberations about the future of teaching and learning in the Arts and Humanities. Qualitative data gleaned from JISC’s 20/21 Student Digital Experience Insights Survey and feedback collected from students studying on undergraduate programmes in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom (UK) is used to sketch out pedagogical imaginaries of the future that can be used heuristically by universities as they work their way through the pandemic and out the other side. The imaginaries, it argues, act as tools to kickstart debates, underpin experimentation and inform pedagogical planning and design. To address questions of credibility and plausibility, the imaginaries are rooted in the present, embody empirical trends and are consistent with practices, structures and technologies that have come to prominence during the pandemic.
Health and Social Inclusion: The Impact of Psychological Well-Being and Suicide Attempts Among Older Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors: Chan Alex Siu Wing , Lo Iris Po Yee , Yan Elsie
Published: September 2022

Older adults’ mental health and suicidal tendencies have garnered much attention because of their vulnerability. Few studies have examined the impact of psychological well-being and suicide attempts among older men who have sex with men (OMSM). This study examines the levels of depression and suicidal tendencies among OMSM, factors impacting their mental health, and their likelihood of committing suicide. Descriptive statistics are used to analyze the correlation between depression and suicidal tendencies among OMSM in the United States. We constructed a regression model using relevant data, and scales were selected based on a literature review. The validity and relevance of the control variables were considered. Depression and suicidal tendencies were dependent variables. Data were obtained from the U.S. General Social Survey and analyzed with an ordinary least squares model. There were significant differences between MSM and general groups in depression and suicidal tendency scores ( t = 67.084, 58.193, p < .01). Compared with general groups, MSM scored significantly higher on depression and suicidal tendencies. The regression analysis revealed that sex with men was associated with depression and suicidal tendencies ( p < .01) among older men. This indicates that OMSM generally have higher levels of depression and suicidal tendencies than the general population. Finally, in the intermediary test, the level of depression had a significant mediating effect on the relationship between homosexuality and suicidal tendencies ( p < .01). This suggests that depression intervention can help reduce suicidal tendencies among OMSM.
Distinguishing Participants and Non-Participants in Campus Recreation: The Roles of Knowledge and Motivations
Authors: Snelgrove Ryan , Selvaratnam Vinu , Wood Laura , Potwarka Luke R.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to explore how students’ knowledge of campus recreation opportunities and their general physical activity (PA) motivations were associated with participation or non-participation in intramural sports, drop-in sports, and the fitness center. Data were collected using a questionnaire from undergraduate students (N = 348) at a large university in Ontario, Canada. Data were analyzed using logistic regression. Knowledge of opportunities was positively associated with participation in all three campus recreation activities. A desire to enhance the university experience was positively associated with intramurals and drop-in sports. Additionally, a desire to be fit through PA was negatively associated with drop-in sports. In addition to increasing students’ knowledge of opportunities, recreation professionals are encouraged to identify and promote the unique aspects of the campus recreation experience, such as its ability to enhance the university experience, in order to stimulate participation through differentiation from off-campus recreation experiences.
A glassy carbon electrode modified with polyaniline nanowires: An electrochemically effective surface area and an electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of methanol under alkaline conditions
Authors: Tran Luyen Thi , Tran Hoang Vinh , Cao Ha Hong , Nguyen Anh Van , Huynh Chinh Dang
Published: September 2022

Polyaniline nanowires are directly synthesized on a glassy carbon electrode (3 mm diameter) by an electrochemical process. The polyaniline nanowires, of uniform size, a diameter of 85–95 nm, and high conductivity, distribute evenly throughout the surface of the working electrode. Electrochemical measurements are conducted in order to determine the electrochemically effective surface area of the obtained glassy carbon electrode modified with polyaniline nanowires, and an investigation of the electrocatalytic activity of polyaniline nanowires for the oxidation of methanol under alkaline conditions is carried out. The electrochemically effective surface area of the glassy carbon electrode modified with polyaniline nanowires is nearly 27 times larger than that of a glassy carbon electrode. In a cyclic voltammetry curve of the glassy carbon electrode modified with polyaniline nanowires measured in a 3.0 M CH3OH and 0.5 M KOH solution, an anodic peak corresponding to the oxidation of methanol under alkaline conditions appears at 0.17 V with a peak current of 34.4 μA.
Lumbar intervertebral foraminal disc extrusion in a cat
Authors: Ryan Daniel , Cherubini Giunio Bruto
Published: September 2022

Case summary

A 10-year-old domestic longhair cat was presented for investigations into a 4-day history of acute-onset lethargy, hyporexia and right pelvic limb lameness. Based upon the neurological examination, a right femoral nerve localisation was suspected. Pelvic radiographs identified a dorsally displaced L5–L6 intervertebral disc, with subsequent MRI suggestive of a right L5–L6 neuritis secondary foraminal intervertebral disc extrusion. Medical management, consisting of rest and analgesia, resulted in near-complete resolution of clinical signs in 37 days.

Relevance and novel information

To our knowledge, this is the first report of a lumbar foraminal intervertebral disc extrusion in a cat and should be considered on the differential list for acute-onset pelvic limb lameness in the absence of neurological deficits.
Brain-In-Hand technology for adults with acquired brain injury: A convergence of mixed methods findings
Authors: Kettlewell Jade , Ward Asha , das Nair Roshan , Radford Kate
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Individuals with acquired brain injury may find it difficult to self-manage and live independently. Brain-in-Hand is a smartphone app designed to support psychological problems and encourage behaviour change, comprised of a structured diary, reminders, agreed solutions, and traffic light monitoring system.

Aim

To evaluate the potential use and effectiveness of Brain-in-Hand for self-management in adults with acquired brain injury.

Methods

A-B mixed-methods case-study design. Individuals with acquired brain injury ( n = 10) received Brain-in-Hand for up to 12 months. Measures of mood, independence, quality of life, cognition, fatigue, goal attainment, participation administered at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Semi-structured interviews conducted with acquired brain injury participants ( n = 9) and healthcare workers ( n = 3) at 6 months.

Results

Significant increase in goal attainment after 6 months use (t(7) = 4.20, p = .004). No significant improvement in other outcomes. Qualitative data suggested improvement in anxiety management. Contextual (personal/environmental) factors were key in influencing the use and effectiveness of Brain-in-Hand. Having sufficient insight, appropriate support and motivation facilitated use.

Conclusions

Brain-in-Hand shows potential to support acquired brain injury, but further work is required to determine its effectiveness. Context played a pivotal role in the effectiveness and sustained use of Brain-in-Hand, and needs to be explored to support implementation.
Effects of a 6-Week Integrated Dementia Awareness and Prevention Program for Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Kim Ji-yeon , Tak Sunghee H. , Ko Hana , Jung SuJung , Lee Jaegyeong , Choi Hyein
Published: September 2022

Older adults show a lack of knowledge about dementia, treatments, and management although they are fearful of developing dementia. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 6-week intervention on knowledge, attitude, fear, and prevention behaviors concerning dementia among older adults who resided in community. The study used a pretest-posttest design with nonequivalent control group. A total of 40 participants completed the study. The intervention group showed a significant decrease in the fear of dementia scores compared to the control group after the intervention( p < .05). However, no significant differences were found between the groups with respect to knowledge, attitude toward dementia, and healthy prevention behaviors. The intervention may be effective in decreasing older adults’ negative emotions concerning dementia, particularly, fear. The assessment of the fear toward dementia may help identify individual causes and triggers and provide tailored interventions.
“Aid, trade and investment”: Water operator partnerships and the Dutch water sector
Authors: Beck Andrea
Published: September 2022

The concept of water operator partnerships (WOPs) was first proposed by a United Nations (UN) advisory board in 2006. Since then, several hundred WOPs have been implemented within and across different world regions. In contrast to public-private partnerships, WOPs are aimed at facilitating peer-to-peer learning between water and sanitation operators on a not-for-profit basis. According to official UN discourse, “mentor” operators share their expertise out of solidarity and a commitment to enhancing the performance of their peers. However, in light of the controversial history of privatization in the water sector, critics have raised doubts about the role of solidarity as a mentor motivation. Why would water operators assist other providers free-of-charge? Is solidarity indeed the main motivation behind knowledge sharing and capacity building in WOPs, or are more self-interested, profit-oriented incentives driving these activities? This article engages with these questions by analyzing the case of Vitens Evides International (VEI), a public company from the Netherlands that has emerged as the most active “mentor” in North-South WOPs to date. Drawing on interviews with VEI managers, water company representatives, and other experts, I show that VEI’s mentoring activities are driven by a complex array of motivations, including staff development and recruitment, customer relations, sustainable development, and the advancement of opportunities for trade and investment. Some of these motivations are closely intertwined with Dutch development policy and the promotion of Dutch water expertise. More research is needed to understand how these interests and motivations affect social equity, learning, and capacity development in WOPs.
Clinicogenomic associations in childhood Langerhans cell histiocytosis: an international cohort study
Authors: Kemps Paul G. , Zondag Timo C. E. , Arnardóttir Helga B. , Solleveld-Westerink Nienke , Borst Jelske , Steenwijk Eline C. , van Egmond Demi , Swennenhuis Joost F. , Stelloo Ellen , Trambusti Irene , Verdijk Robert M. , van Noesel Carel J. M. , Cleven Arjen H. G. , Scheijde-Vermeulen Marijn A. , Koudijs Marco J. , Krsková Lenka , Hawkins Cynthia , Egeler R. Maarten , Brok Jesper , von Bahr Greenwood Tatiana , Svojgr Karel , Beishuizen Auke , van Laar Jan A. M. , Pötschger Ulrike , Hutter Caroline , Sieni Elena , Minkov Milen , Abla Oussama , van Wezel Tom , van den Bos Cor , van Halteren Astrid G. S.
Published: September 2022

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare neoplastic disorder caused by somatic genetic alterations in hematopoietic precursor cells differentiating into CD1a+/CD207+ histiocytes. LCH clinical manifestation is highly heterogeneous. BRAF and MAP2K1 mutations account for ∼80% of genetic driver alterations in neoplastic LCH cells. However, their clinical associations remain incompletely understood. Here, we present an international clinicogenomic study of childhood LCH, investigating 377 patients genotyped for at least BRAFV600E. MAPK pathway gene alterations were detected in 300 (79.6%) patients, including 191 (50.7%) with BRAFV600E, 54 with MAP2K1 mutations, 39 with BRAF exon 12 mutations, 13 with rare BRAF alterations, and 3 with ARAF or KRAS mutations. Our results confirm that BRAFV600E associates with lower age at diagnosis and higher prevalence of multisystem LCH, high-risk disease, and skin involvement. Furthermore, BRAFV600E appeared to correlate with a higher prevalence of central nervous system (CNS)–risk bone lesions. In contrast, MAP2K1 mutations associated with a higher prevalence of single-system (SS)-bone LCH, and BRAF exon 12 deletions seemed to correlate with more lung involvement. Although BRAFV600E correlated with reduced event-free survival in the overall cohort, neither BRAF nor MAP2K1 mutations associated with event-free survival when patients were stratified by disease extent. Thus, the correlation of BRAFV600E with inferior clinical outcome is (primarily) driven by its association with disease extents known for high rates of progression or relapse, including multisystem LCH. These findings advance our understanding of factors underlying the remarkable clinical heterogeneity of LCH but also question the independent prognostic value of lesional BRAFV600E status.
Inverse Dynamics of A 3-DOF Parallel Mechanism Based on Analytical Forward Kinematics
Authors: Wang Ke , Li Ju , Shen Huiping , You Jingjing , Yang Tingli
Published: September 2022

For the development of a parallel mechanism (PM), it is necessary to establish a dynamic model which can accurately meet the requirements of real-time control. Compared with the general dynamic analysis model based on the inverse kinematics, the dynamic analysis model based on the forward kinematics has the advantage of low-complexity. In this paper, a new type of 3-DOF PM with analytical forward displacement analysis is proposed. Different from the general dynamic analysis based on the inverse kinematics, the displacement, velocity and acceleration equations of the PM are established and solved by forward kinematics. The inverse dynamic equation of the PM is constructed and solved by analyzing the forces on each link and based on Newton-Euler method. Then the theoretical results of an example are compared with the simulation results, which shows that the simulation results are basically consistent with the theoretical results. And the maximum error of the driving force of each pair is 1.32%, 5.8% and 5.2%, respectively, which verifies the correctness of the dynamic model. The PM has a potential application prospect in the grasping, spraying and picking of workpieces. The research results of this paper provide a theoretical basis for the design, manufacture and application of the PM.
Focus on your locus with a massively parallel reporter assay
Authors: McAfee Jessica C. , Bell Jessica L. , Krupa Oleh , Matoba Nana , Stein Jason L. , Won Hyejung
Published: September 2022

A growing number of variants associated with risk for neurodevelopmental disorders have been identified by genome-wide association and whole genome sequencing studies. As common risk variants often fall within large haplotype blocks covering long stretches of the noncoding genome, the causal variants within an associated locus are often unknown. Similarly, the effect of rare noncoding risk variants identified by whole genome sequencing on molecular traits is seldom known without functional assays. A massively parallel reporter assay (MPRA) is an assay that can functionally validate thousands of regulatory elements simultaneously using high-throughput sequencing and barcode technology. MPRA has been adapted to various experimental designs that measure gene regulatory effects of genetic variants within cis- and trans-regulatory elements as well as posttranscriptional processes. This review discusses different MPRA designs that have been or could be used in the future to experimentally validate genetic variants associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Though MPRA has limitations such as it does not model genomic context, this assay can help narrow down the underlying genetic causes of neurodevelopmental disorders by screening thousands of sequences in one experiment. We conclude by describing future directions of this technique such as applications of MPRA for gene-by-environment interactions and pharmacogenetics.
Genetics of the phenotypic evolution in sheep: a molecular look at diversity-driving genes
Authors: Kalds Peter , Zhou Shiwei , Gao Yawei , Cai Bei , Huang Shuhong , Chen Yulin , Wang Xiaolong
Published: September 2022

Background

After domestication, the evolution of phenotypically-varied sheep breeds has generated rich biodiversity. This wide phenotypic variation arises as a result of hidden genomic changes that range from a single nucleotide to several thousands of nucleotides. Thus, it is of interest and significance to reveal and understand the genomic changes underlying the phenotypic variation of sheep breeds in order to drive selection towards economically important traits.

Review

Various traits contribute to the emergence of variation in sheep phenotypic characteristics, including coat color, horns, tail, wool, ears, udder, vertebrae, among others. The genes that determine most of these phenotypic traits have been investigated, which has generated knowledge regarding the genetic determinism of several agriculturally-relevant traits in sheep. In this review, we discuss the genomic knowledge that has emerged in the past few decades regarding the phenotypic traits in sheep, and our ultimate aim is to encourage its practical application in sheep breeding. In addition, in order to expand the current understanding of the sheep genome, we shed light on research gaps that require further investigation.

Conclusions

Although significant research efforts have been conducted in the past few decades, several aspects of the sheep genome remain unexplored. For the full utilization of the current knowledge of the sheep genome, a wide practical application is still required in order to boost sheep productive performance and contribute to the generation of improved sheep breeds. The accumulated knowledge on the sheep genome will help advance and strengthen sheep breeding programs to face future challenges in the sector, such as climate change, global human population growth, and the increasing demand for products of animal origin.
Abnormal ankle-brachial index, cardiovascular risk factors and healthy lifestyle factors in hypertensive patients: prospective cohort study from a primary care urban population
Authors: Armas-Padrón Ana María , Sicilia-Sosvilla Miriam , Rodríguez-Bello Sergio , López-Carmona María Dolores , Ruiz-Esteban Pedro , Hernández Domingo
Published: September 2022

Background

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and arterial stiffness (AS) may be hypertension-mediated vascular lesions. Both are determined by an abnormal ankle-brachial index (ABI) and are predictors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. We assessed the relationship in urban hypertensive patients between an abnormal ABI and an ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) score, plus other healthy factors, with unfavourable outcomes.

Methods

We studied 243 hypertensive patients from a primary care urban population, followed for two years. Clinical data, comorbid conditions, including hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) and hypertension-related comorbidities (HRC), hospitalizations and mortality were also recorded.

Results

A low prevalence of ideal CVH was observed in urban hypertensive patients. The ABI ≤ 0.9 group (n = 16) showed a higher proportion of prior CVD other than PAD, mortality and hospitalizations than the ABI > 1.4 group (n = 41), and a poorer lipid, metabolic and renal profile. An inverse relationship between CVH score and ABI ≤ 0.9 and unfavourable outcomes (HMOD, HRC, death or hospitalization) was observed. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes were independently associated with an ABI ≤ 0.9. Age, sex, diabetes, CKD, ABI ≤ 0.9 and ideal cholesterol were also associated with outcomes, but not other CVH metrics.

Conclusions

Besides a low prevalence of ideal CVH, an inverse relationship between CVH score and ABI ≤ 0.9 and unfavourable outcomes was observed in hypertensive patients from an urban population. Stronger efforts to promote ideal CVH may improve outcomes in this particular population.
Use of primary health care services among older patients with and without diabetes
Authors: Aro Anna-Kaisa , Karjalainen Merja , Tiihonen Miia , Kautiainen Hannu , Saltevo Juha , Haanpää Maija , Mäntyselkä Pekka
Published: September 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the utilization of primary healthcare services by older patients with and without type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Electronic patient records were used to identify persons over 65 years of age with a diagnosis of diabetes. Two age- and sex-adjusted controls without diabetes were extracted for each person with diagnosis of diabetes. A health questionnaire was sent by mail to 527 people with diabetes and 890 controls. Of the persons who answered the questionnaire, 518 persons were randomly selected to participate in a health examination. The study group in this analysis consisted of 187 persons with diabetes and 176 persons without diabetes who attended the health examination. The data on primary health care utilization were extracted from electronic patient records one year before and one after the health examination.

Results

Before the onset of the study, the patients with diabetes had more doctor’s appointments (p < 0.001), nurse’s appointments (< 0.001) and laboratory tests taken (p < 0.001) than those without diabetes After 1-year follow-up period the patients with diabetes had more doctor’s appointments (p = 0.002), nurse’s appointments (p = 0.006), laboratory tests taken (p = 0.006) and inpatient care at the community hospital (p = 0.004) than patients without a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. The use of the community hospital increased significantly among patients with diabetes (ratio 2.50; 95% Cl 1.16–5.36) but not by patients without diabetes (ratio 0.91; 95% Cl 0.40.2.06). The number of nurse’s appointments increased for patients without diabetes (ratio 1.31; 95% Cl 1.07–1.60) but not for those with diabetes (ratio 1.04; 95% Cl 0.88–1.24).

Conclusions

Patients with diabetes visit more often physicians and nurses compared with those without diabetes. During a 1-year follow-up, the use of community hospital care increased significantly among patients with diabetes. In addition to focusing on prevention and care of diabetes, these results suggest the importance of diabetes in planning community-based health care services.
Hypertension attenuates the link of osteoprotegerin to reduced baroreflex sensitivity in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients on oral antidiabetic and antihypertensive therapy – a cross sectional study
Authors: Sailaja A. Naga , Nanda Nivedita , Suryanarayana B. S. , Pal G. K.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Decreased baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) has been shown to be a marker of cardiovascular (CV) risk. In the present study, the difference in CV risk biomarkers in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients receiving oral antidiabetic drugs (OAD) with and without hypertension has been assessed.

Materials and methods

Ninety-two T2D patients on OAD without hypertension (control group) and eighty-eight diabetic patients with hypertension on OAD and antihypertensive drugs (test group) matched for age, gender, body mass index, serum glucose, glycated haemoglobin, and duration of the disease were recruited for the study. Their blood pressure (BP) variability including BRS, heart rate variability (HRV), insulin, lipid profile, osteoprotegerin (OPG), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were estimated. The association of various factors with BRS was assessed by Spearman correlation and multiple regression analysis.

Results

BRS was decreased (13.90 ± 5.27 vs 6.76 ± 4.58), HRV sympathetic indices [LFnu, LF-HF ratio (1.30 ± 0.49 vs 1.93 ± 0.62)], HOMA-IR, atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), OPG (223.08 ± 103.86 vs 287.60 ± 121.36) and TNF-α were increased, and parasympathetic indices [TP (1012.90 ± 316.18 vs 625.88 ± 229.84), RMSSD, SDNN, NN50, pNN50] were decreased in the test group compared to control group. In control group, parasympathetic indices, AIP, OPG, and TNF-α had a significant correlation and OPG had an independent association (β − 0.344; p 0.004) with BRS. In test group, BP, LF-HF ratio, parasympathetic indices, AIP, OPG, and TNF-α had significant correlation, and TNF-α alone (β − 0.297; p 0.022) had an independent contribution to decreased BRS.

Conclusion

Despite antidiabetic and antihypertensive treatments, T2D patients with hypertension had more cardiometabolic risks in comparison to normotensive T2D patients. Inflammation could be the inciting factor for rise in BP and decrease in BRS (CV risk) in hypertensive T2D patients. Hypertension in diabetes could attenuate the link of OPG to the reduction in BRS. Reduction in BRS could be a physiological marker of CV risk in T2D patients treated with OAD.
The development of a questionnaire to assess the willingness of Chinese community health workers to implement advance care planning
Authors: Miao Qunfang , Xing Bingyu , Li Jingyi , Li Yanjuan
Published: September 2022

Background

To develop a questionnaire to evaluate the willingness of Chinese health care workers to implement an advance care planning (ACP) program for patients in a Chinese cultural context.

Methods

Guided by the framework of the theory of planned behavior (TPB), a literature analysis and semi-structured interviews were conducted to create a pool of questionnaire items, and then the initial assessment questionnaire was developed by two rounds of expert consultations. A random sampling method was used to pre-survey 204 health care workers in community health service centers (CHSCs) in three urban areas of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The final questionnaire was derived from item analysis and exploratory factor analysis.

Results

Based on exploratory factor analysis, five common factors were identified from the questionnaire on community health care workers‘(CHWs) willingness to implement ACP. In general, the content validity of the questionnaire was 0.91, and the content validity of each of the entries ranged from 0.80 to 1.00, indicating acceptable overall questionnaire content validity. The total Cronbach coefficient for the questionnaire was 0.966, the Cronbach coefficient for each dimension ranged from 0.865 to 0.954, and the retest reliability was 0.856. The questionnaire produced a final draft containing five dimensions (behavioral attitudes, subjective norms, direct control, indirect control, and behavioral intentions) and 30 items.

Conclusion

The questionnaire on the willingness of CHWs to implement ACP was validated and found to be reliable.
Study of effect of guided meditation on quality of life in patients of end stage renal disease (ESRD) on maintenance hemodialysis – a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Vaishnav Bhalendu S. , Hirapara Jekishan Jayeshbhai , Shah Maulin K.
Published: September 2022

Background

There is paucity of data regarding effects of guided meditation (Yoganidra) on quality of life among patients of chronic kidney disease on maintenance hemodialysis. Our objective was to study effects of guided meditation on physical, emotional, and cognitive dimensions of well-being and quality of life in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis.

Method

We collected baseline and post intervention data in control and intervention groups on hemodialysis and studied the effect of Guided mediation provided for 6 weeks.

Result

Eighty patients (forty in control and intervention group each) were studied. Mean age was 51 years. Hypertension and Diabetes were the most common etiological condition (28.75%) followed by undermined aetiology (25.00%). 8.75% of the patients had dialysis vintage of less than 1 year. There was statistically significant difference in qualities of happiness and all measures of physical general wellbeing. There was statistically significant difference in burden and effect of kidney disease as well as symptoms of kidney disease post intervention in Kidney Disease Quality of Life score. We carried out Qualitative analysis in our study by maintaining a diary of their subjective experiences related to listening music/guided meditation during the study period in which the feeling of peace and feeling inspired to manage the illness/ do regular work were the most common experiences (97.5%) reported by participants. 

Conclusion

Guided meditation resulted in statistically significant improvement in happiness, enthusiasm, inspiration, activeness, alertness, awareness, degree of stability, self-confidence, clarity of thoughts, control over anger, self-reflection intervention in the intervention group. It reduced perceived stress. It improved burden and effect of kidney disease, symptoms of kidney disease and total Kidney Disease Quality of Life score. In qualitative dimensions of wellbeing (as emerging from analysis of results of diary), feeling of peace and feeling inspired to manage the illness/ continue regular work, clarity of thoughts, happiness, concentration, reduction of laziness, improved sleep pattern, reduction in anger among other psychological components.

Trial registration

This trial has been registered under clinical trial registry of India. (CTRI number-CTRI/2020/02/023438) (Date: 19/02/2020).
Improved skill for tracheal intubation using optical stylets through remote training model: a before and after interventional study
Authors: Fu Danyun , Li Weixing , Li Wenxian , Han Yuan
Published: September 2022

Background

Conducting on-site, hands-on training during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been challenging. We conducted a before and after interventional study to estimate the efficacy of a new remote hands-on training model for improving the trainees’ tracheal intubation competency using optical stylets.

Methods

Residents or physicians in anesthesiology apartment who have not received the nominated training in tracheal intubation using optical stylets were enrolled. The 4-week training course contains theoretical knowledge along with preclinical and clinical training of optical stylets techniques. Competency of intubation using optical stylets on patients with normal airways was evaluated according to an assessment tool with a maximum score of 29 points based on video recording pre-post training performance. Pre-post questionnaires measured theoretical knowledge and self-efficacy.

Results

Twenty-two participants were included (8 females, 14 men, mean age of 33.5 years). The total score of intubation competency was significantly improved after training from 14.6±3.7 to 25.3±2.6 (P < 0.0001). The scores of three subitems (anatomical identification, hand-eye coordination, and optimized intubation condition) were all significantly increased after training (P < 0.0001). The total percentage of correct answers in the multiple-choice questionnaire increased from 58.2%±8.2% before training to 85.2%±7.2% shortly after training (P < 0.0001). In addition, the self-efficacy score was significantly increased from 2.5±1.2 to 4.4±0.6 (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The new remote and progressively advanced hands-on training model improved the competency of intubation using optical stylets under the COVID-19 pandemic.
Weipiling decoction alleviates N-methyl-N-nitro-N′-nitrosoguanidine-induced gastric precancerous lesions via NF-κB signalling pathway inhibition
Authors: Yang Penghui , Yang Hongmei , Zhou Hengli , Li Qiuyue , Wei Sufen , Wang Qi , Yan Yan , Liu Yongqiang , Pan Huafeng , Li Siyi
Published: September 2022

Aim of the study

We aimed to explore how weipiling (WPL) decoction WPL alleviates gastric precancerous lesions (GPLs) and uncover its anti-inflammatory roles in GPL treatment.

Materials and methods

The anti-GPL action mechanisms of WPL were analysed using a network pharmacological method. The WPL extract was prepared in a traditional way and evaluated for its major components using high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS). BALB/c mice were exposed toN-methyl-N-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) (150 μg/mL) for 6 weeks to induce GPLs. GPL mice were administered WPL (3.75 g/kg/day and 15 g/kg/day) for an additional 8 weeks.Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to investigate histological alterations in gastric tissues. Expression of the T helper 1 (Th1) cell markers CD4+and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) were tested using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Inflammatory protein and mRNA levels in the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway were detected using western blotting and a quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), respectively.

Results

We identified and selected 110 active compounds and 146 targets from public databases and references. Four representative components of WPL were established and quantified by HPLC–MS/MS analysis. WPL attenuated MNNG-induced GPLs, including epithelial shedding, cavity fusion, basement membranes with asymmetrical thickness, intestinal metaplasia, dysplasia, pro-inflammatory Th1-cell infiltration, and INF-γ production, indicating that WPL prevents inflammation in the gastric mucosa. Furthermore, WPL reversed MNNG-induced activation of the IκB/NF-κB signalling pathway and subsequently attenuated the upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NADPH oxidase (NOX)) family members NOX2 and NOX4.

Conclusion

WPL attenuated GPLs by controlling the generation of pro-inflammatory elements and inhibiting the NF-κB signalling pathway in vivo.