bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Warming promotes expansion of a key demersal fishing resource of the western Mediterranean
Authors: González-Andrés Cristina , Ramírez-Romero Eduardo , Guijarro Beatriz , Farré Marc , Macias Diego , Massutí Enric
Published: November 2024

Climate change is affecting marine ecosystems altering the distribution and abundance of organisms, with implications for fisheries and food security. This warming-induced reshuffle in species abundance could bring threats and opportunities to the fisheries, but needs to be assessed to promote effective actions and to foster resilience. We analyzed the density and distribution patterns of deep-sea rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris), as well as identified the main environmental have identified the environmental drivers shaping its habitat along the western Mediterranean (Iberian Peninsula) during the period 2001–2020. Using spatial distribution models developed concurrently with an ensemble of four Regional Climate Models (RCMs), we have projected the density of this species during the next century under two climate scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5). Bathymetry and sea bottom temperature drove the density of the species, leading to a marked northward expansion during the last two decades. Our results projected an increase in its distribution and especially in density throughout the area along the 21st century, mirroring the effect of global warming. Consequently, the most distant period (i.e. 2100s) and the warmest scenario (RCP8.5) presented also the highest densities and low internal variability of the ensemble. We discussed the power of assessing uncertainties using a RCM ensemble, particularly under complex oceanographic features, to bring robust information for an effective scientific advice to fisheries management.
Case report: STRN3-NTRK3 fusion in uterine sarcoma with spleen metastasis: a new variant in the spectrum of NTRK-rearranged tumors
Authors: Colombo Piergiuseppe , Buonamassa Giuseppina Adriana , Giulianini Anita , Hassan Letizia , Rudini Noemi , Rizzo Antonio , Cavallo Enrico , Carnaghi Carlo , Goudarzi Salumeh , Mongiovì Sebastiano , Pafumi Sarah , Marletta Stefano
Published: November 2024

Neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) fusions are infrequent genetic events that can occur in various tumor types. Specifically, NTRK-rearranged sarcoma has been observed in pediatric mesenchymal tumors and, to a lesser extent, in adult mesenchymal tumors like fibrosarcoma. Recently, NTRK-rearranged uterine sarcoma (US) has been identified as a rare entity characterized by constitutive activation or overexpression of the TRK receptor, which plays a role in cell proliferation and differentiation. Since its initial description in 2018, only 46 cases of NTRK-rearranged US have been reported. In this context, herein we describe an exceptional case of an STRN3::NTRK3 fused US with histologically confirmed splenic metastasis. Notably, such localization has not been previously associated with pure uterine sarcomas in the literature. The fusion involved STRN3 (exon-3) and NTRK3 (exon-14) genes and was identified through next-generation sequencing analysis. Recognizing this specific molecular rearrangement is crucial, as it not only enables targeted therapy but also holds diagnostic significance in specific clinical scenarios.
Continuing medical education program completion and influencing factors: a cross-sectional study in Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Liu Xuedong , Ye Mengliang
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This cross-sectional study was designed to explore the completion of continuing medical education (CME) programs and identify the factors influencing their completion.

Methods

The data for this study were generated from the National CME Program Application and Information Feedback Online System and the Sichuan CME Administrative Platform. The data were processed using descriptive analysis, Chi-square test, and binary logistic regression methods. The completion of each CME program was determined by the research team members according to the criteria created by the Office of the Sichuan CME Commission.

Results

A total of 180 hospitals and 3,622 CME programs were included. Among the 3,622 CME programs, 2,936 (81.1%) were determined to be completed. Comparative analysis showed that in terms of hospital characteristics, specialist hospitals, county hospitals, hospitals with 500–1,000 beds, and hospitals in the regions with government medical expenditure input equal to or more than 3,000 million RMB displayed the highest completion rates. For program attributes, national programs, programs in the field of pharmacy, and programs with 1–3 duration days demonstrated the highest completion rates. The binary logistic regression analysis showed that hospital region with different government medical expenditure input had the strongest positive association with the completion of CME programs [OR = 2.922, 95%CI (1.642–5.198)], while the duration time showed the strongest negative association [OR = 0.235, 95%CI (0.141–0.393)].

Conclusion

This is the first study in China to analyze the completion of CME programs and identify its influencing factors at the provincial level. It is recommended that the government in the region should pay great attention to the construction of measures regarding the factors affecting the completion of CME programs. This includes providing more financial support to CME providers to ensure the formal operation of their CME activities, formulating guidelines on the application of CME programs to reasonably allocate and control the distribution of accredited CME programs across different hospital scales and disciplines, especially offering more training support to county hospitals, promulgating administrative documents to raise attention to the completion of CME programs, and special scrutiny on CME programs with longer durations to provide and protect training opportunities for those in need.
Determinants of out-of-pocket expenditure on medicines among adults in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Al-Hanawi Mohammed Khaled , Keetile Mpho
Published: November 2024

Introduction

To achieve universal health coverage consistent with World Health Organization recommendations, monitoring financial protection is vital, even in the context of free medical care. Toward this end, this study investigated out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure on medicines and their determinants among adults in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This analysis was based on cross-sectional data derived from the Family Health Survey conducted by the General Authority for Statistics in 2018. Data analyses for this study were based on the total sample of 10,785 respondents. Descriptive statistics were used to identify the sample distribution for all variables included in the study. Tobit regression analysis was used to examine the determinants of OOP expenditure on medicines.

Results

The average OOP expenditure on medicines was estimated to be 279.69 Saudi Riyal in the sampled population. Tobit regression analysis showed that age, average household monthly income, education level, and suffering a chronic condition were the main determinants of OOP expenditure on medicines. Conversely, being married and employed were associated with a lower probability of OOP expenditure on medicines.

Conclusion

This study could assist policy makers to provide additional insurance funding and benefits to reduce the possibility of catastrophic OOP expenditure on medicines, especially for the most vulnerable demographic.
Molecular identification of methane-consuming bacteria in the Persian Gulf: a study for microbial gas exploration
Authors: Harirforoush Mahsa , Shavandi Mahmoud , Amoozegar Mohammad Ali , Saffarian Parvaneh , Hasrak Shabnam
Published: November 2024

The seepage of gaseous compounds from underground reservoirs towards the surface causes abnormalities in the population of microbial communities that consume light hydrocarbons on the surface of the reservoir. This microbial population can serve as indicators for determining the location of gas reservoirs prior to drilling operations. In this study, the simulation of methane gas leakage in the sediments of the Persian Gulf was conducted using a laboratory model. The objective of this simulation was to identify the microbial population consuming methane within the sediments of the Persian Gulf, aiding in the exploration of gas reserves. Continuous injection of methane gas into the system was performed for a period of 3 months to enrich the microbial consortia consuming methane. Subsequently, the microbial population was identified using next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis. The results indicated that, based on the 16S rRNA sequencing dataset, aerobic methanotrophs, including genera Methylobacter, Methylomarinum, Methylomicrobium, Methylomonas, and Methylophage, were the dominant microbial group on the surface of the sediments. Additionally, anaerobic methane oxidation archaea in sediments were performed by ANME-2 and ANME-3 clades. The findings demonstrate that these microbial communities are capable of coexistence and thrive in long-term exposure to methane in the sediments of the Persian Gulf. Identifying this microbial pattern, alongside other geophysical and geological data, can increase the success rate of gas reservoir exploration.
Prevalence and genetic diversity of optrA-positive enterococci isolated from patients in an anorectal surgery ward of a Chinese hospital
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Jiang Tao , Mao Jianfeng , Xu Fangyi , Zhang Rong , Yan Jing , Cai Jiachang , Xie Yanjun
Published: November 2024

Linezolid-resistant enterococci have increased in recent years due to the worldwide spread of acquired resistance genes (cfr, optrA, and poxtA) in clinical, animal, and environmental settings. This study investigated the carriage of optrA-positive enterococci among patients in the anorectal surgery ward in Hangzhou, China, and characterized the genetic context of optrA. A total of 173 wound secretion samples were obtained to screen optrA-positive enterococci. Of the 173 samples, 15 (8.67%) were positive for optrA, including 12 Enterococcus faecalis, two E. faecium, and one E. hirae. Multilocus sequence type analysis revealed that 12 optrA-positive E. faecalis isolates belonged to eight different sequence types (STs), of which ST16 was the main type. Eight optrA variants were identified, whose optrA flanking regions with a fexA gene downstream were bounded by different mobile genetic elements. Furthermore, the optrA gene in 8 out of 15 optrA-positive enterococci could be successfully transferred through conjugation. The findings revealed a high carriage rate of optrA in enterococci from one anorectal surgery ward in China. The dissemination of optrA-positive enterococci isolates in clinical settings should be continually monitored.
The impact of body position on neurofluid dynamics: present insights and advancements in imaging
Authors: Muccio Marco , Sun Zhe , Chu David , Damadian Brianna E. , Minkoff Lawrence , Bonanni Luciano , Ge Yulin
Published: November 2024

The intricate neurofluid dynamics and balance is essential in preserving the structural and functional integrity of the brain. Key among these forces are: hemodynamics, such as heartbeat-driven arterial and venous blood flow, and hydrodynamics, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation. The delicate interplay between these dynamics is crucial for maintaining optimal homeostasis within the brain. Currently, the widely accepted framework for understanding brain functions is the Monro-Kellie’s doctrine, which posits a constant sum of intracranial CSF, blood flow and brain tissue volumes. However, in recent decades, there has been a growing interest in exploring the dynamic interplay between these elements and the impact of external factors, such as daily changes in body position. CSF circulation in particular plays a crucial role in the context of neurodegeneration and dementia, since its dysfunction has been associated with impaired clearance mechanisms and accumulation of toxic substances. Despite the implementation of various invasive and non-invasive imaging techniques to investigate the intracranial hemodynamic or hydrodynamic properties, a comprehensive understanding of how all these elements interact and are influenced by body position remains wanted. Establishing a comprehensive overview of this topic is therefore crucial and could pave the way for alternative care approaches. In this review, we aim to summarize the existing understanding of intracranial hemodynamic and hydrodynamic properties, fundamental for brain homeostasis, along with factors known to influence their equilibrium. Special attention will be devoted to elucidating the effects of body position shifts, given their significance and remaining ambiguities. Furthermore, we will explore recent advancements in imaging techniques utilized for real time and non-invasive measurements of dynamic body fluid properties in-vivo.
Does age protect against loss of tonotopy after acute deafness in adulthood?
Authors: Rosskothen-Kuhl Nicole , Green Sarah , Jakob Till F.
Published: November 2024

The mammalian auditory system develops a topographical representation of sound frequencies along its pathways, also called tonotopy. In contrast, sensory deprivation during early development results in no or only rudimentary tonotopic organization. This study addresses two questions: (1) How robust is the central tonotopy when hearing fails in adulthood? (2) What role does age play at time of deafness? To address these questions, we deafened young and old adult rats with previously normal hearing. One month after deafening, both groups were unilaterally supplied with cochlear implants and electrically stimulated for 2 h. The central auditory neurons, which were activated as a result of the local electrical intracochlear stimulation, were visualized using Fos staining. While the auditory system of young rats lost the tonotopic organization throughout the brainstem, the auditory system of the older rats mainly sustained its tonotopy. It can be proposed that plasticity prevails in the central auditory system of young adult rats, while network stability prevails in the brains of aging rats. Consequently, age may be an important factor in protecting a hearing-experienced adult auditory system from a rapid loss of tonotopy when suffering from acute hearing loss. Furthermore, the study provides compelling evidence that acute deafness in young adult patients should be diagnosed as early as possible to prevent maladaptation of the central auditory system and thus achieve the optimal hearing outcome with a hearing prosthesis.
Constructing representative group networks from tractography: lessons from a dynamical approach
Authors: Kritikaki Eleanna , Mancini Matteo , Kyriazis Diana , Sigala Natasha , Farmer Simon F. , Berthouze Luc
Published: November 2024

Human group connectome analysis relies on combining individual connectome data to construct a single representative network which can be used to describe brain organisation and identify differences between subject groups. Existing methods adopt different strategies to select the network structural features to be retained or optimised at group level. In the absence of ground truth, however, it is unclear which structural features are the most suitable and how to evaluate the consequences on the group network of applying any given strategy. In this investigation, we consider the impact of defining a connectome as representative if it can recapitulate not just the structure of the individual networks in the cohort tested but also their dynamical behaviour, which we measured using a model of coupled oscillators. We applied the widely used approach of consensus thresholding to a dataset of individual structural connectomes from a healthy adult cohort to construct group networks for a range of thresholds and then identified the most dynamically representative group connectome as that having the least deviation from the individual connectomes given a dynamical measure of the system. We found that our dynamically representative network recaptured aspects of structure for which it did not specifically optimise, with no significant difference to other group connectomes constructed via methods which did optimise for those metrics. Additionally, these other group connectomes were either as dynamically representative as our chosen network or less so. While we suggest that dynamics should be at least one of the criteria for representativeness, given that the brain has evolved under the pressure of carrying out specific functions, our results suggest that the question persists as to which of these criteria are valid and testable.
Clinical characteristics of patients with P4HTM variant-associated epilepsy and therapeutic exploration: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Yan-Juan , Li Si-Xiu , Hu Wen-Guang , Zhao Li-Li , Lan Mingping , Chen Jia-Lei
Published: November 2024

The P4HTM gene encodes a transmembrane prolyl 4-hydroxylase, which is responsible for the degradation of hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIF) under normoxia. Clinically, biallelic P4HTM variants have been identified in patients with hypotonia, hypoventilation, intellectual disabilities, dysautonomia, epilepsy, and eye abnormalities (HIDEA syndrome). Seizure was one of the most prominent symptoms. However, the clinical features of patients with epilepsy associated with P4HTM variants remain unclear. In this report, we describe a one-month-old infant with HIDEA syndrome caused by compound heterozygous P4HTM variants (c.300dupG/p.Gly103Argfs*22 and c.488C > T/p.Ala163Val). The infant presented with clonic seizures of focal onset that responded well to valproate, but with profound intellectual disability and global developmental delay at the last follow-up at 3 years old. A review of the existing literature indicates that seizures in this population typically begin early in infancy, manifest in multiple types, and are relatively well controlled. Epilepsy seemed unrelated to developmental outcomes or disease progression. Valproate, which has HIF-1α inhibiting properties, may be a promising treatment avenue for this population.
Association between dietary vitamin B6 intake and constipation: a population-based study
Authors: Liu Xuefeng , Liu Yuedong , Shu Yuping , Tao Hongwu , Sheng Zewei , Peng Yuyu , Cai Meiqi , Zhang Xiaoming , Lan Weiru
Published: November 2024

Background

Numerous studies have suggested a link between dietary micronutrient intake and the onset of constipation. Nevertheless, there has not been much research done on the potential relationship between vitamin B6 and constipation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether dietary vitamin B6 consumption and chronic constipation are related among adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Method

The study made use of information from the 2009–2010 NHANES health and nutrition survey. Respondents’ dietary information was gathered using 24-h dietary recalls. A range of statistical techniques, including as interaction tests, subgroup analyses, and curve fitting analyses, were used to examine the connection between dietary vitamin B6 intake and chronic constipation.

Result

This study included 3,643 patients, with 270 (7.41%) diagnosed with persistent constipation. A fully adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis found that increasing dietary vitamin B6 consumption (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.68–0.89) was linked to a lower incidence of constipation, with significance at p < 0.05. After accounting for numerous factors, the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for the third tertile compared to the reference group (first tertile) were 0.85 (0.74, 0.98), with statistical significance at p < 0.05. Furthermore, subgroup analysis and interaction assessments revealed a substantial negative link between vitamin B6 intake and the occurrence of constipation, particularly in males and alcohol drinkers (all p-values were less than 0.05).

Conclusion

This study found an inverse connection between vitamin B6 consumption and the prevalence of persistent constipation. More extensive prospective trials are needed to fully examine the long-term influence of vitamin B6 on persistent constipation.
Characterization of the function and clinical value of ERCC family genes in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lu Zhimin , Hou Guoxin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

ERCC genes, responsible for encoding enzymes involved in base excision repair, have been implicated in various cancers, contributing to chemoresistance. However, a comprehensive analysis of the prognostic and therapeutic significance of this gene family in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is lacking.

Methods

This study conducted a multidimensional assessment of ERCC family genes in LUAD using bioinformatic approaches, including mRNA expression level, gene methylation, and copy number variation (CNV), as well as their correlations with clinical outcome, gene set variations, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). In addition, We evaluated the anti-tumor effects of ERCC8 in cell lines, demonstrating its clinical potential on an experimental level.

Results

Overall, the expression of ERCC genes exhibited a negative correlation with good prognosis, with ERCC6L and ERCC8 demonstrating the most reliable predictive performance. Gene methylation level and CNV increases of ERCC genes generally displayed negative and positive associations with their expression levels, respectively. Additionally, GSVA analysis suggested that ERCC expression was positively correlated with cell cycle and apoptosis pathways but negatively correlated to the TSC/mTOR pathway. Furthermore, the expression of ERCC genes exhibited a complex relationship with TILs and the response to anti-tumor drugs. The results of in vitro cellular experiments show that inhibiting ERCC8 can alleviate the malignant phenotype of LUAD cells.

Discussion

Our study revealed the multifaceted biological and clinical significance of ERCC family members in LUAD. These findings provide new insights into the function of ERCC family genes in LUAD and their potential clinical applications.
Comparison of enteral prucalopride versus intravenous metoclopramide for feeding intolerance in patients with critical illness: a randomized double-blinded study
Authors: Elmokadem Eman Mohamed , Abou El Fadl Dina Khaled , Eissa Nermin , Alnassar Najla Abdulaziz , Bassiouny Ahmed M. , Hanna Samy Amir Eskander , El Said Nouran Omar
Published: November 2024

Background

Feeding intolerance is commonly experienced during enteral feeding, necessitating cessation. Metoclopramide may be given to assist gastric emptying, but patients experience adverse effects and gradual loss of efficacy. Prucalopride, a safer prokinetic, may play a role in gastric emptying. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess its effectiveness and safety in feeding intolerance developed in critically ill patients.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective randomized double-blinded study, patients with feeding intolerance were randomized to receive 2 mg prucalopride enterally once daily or 10 mg metoclopramide intravenously every 6–8 h for 7 days. Patients were monitored for treatment failure, successful feeding, gastric residual volume (GRV), and the development of medication-related adverse effects.

Results

A total of 70 patients (35 in the metoclopramide group and 35 in the prucalopride group) completed the study. The average daily GRV in the prucalopride group was significantly lower compared to the metoclopramide group (p=<0.001) on day 7. Additionally, the percentage change in GRV from day 1 to day 7 showed a greater significant change in the prucalopride arm versus the metoclopramide arm (p=<0.001). The treatment groups were comparable in terms of ICU length of stay (p = 0.094). Moreover, there was a significantly higher successful caloric intake in the prucalopride group compared to the metoclopramide group on day 7 (p = 0.039).

Conclusion

Prucalopride administration in enterally fed patients with feeding intolerance may reduce GRV and improve feeding success rates compared to metoclopramide treatment. The use of prucalopride was found to be tolerable and safe in critically ill patients.

Clinical Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT05496179
Impact of multifaceted interventions on the knowledge, attitude, and practice of adverse drug reactions reporting among healthcare workers in Vietnam: a comparative intervention study
Authors: Pham Hong Tham , Tran Doan Minh-Thy , Dang Thi Thuy , Nguyen Tuan Dung , Tran Minh-Hoang , Nguyen Thao Ngoc Phuong
Published: November 2024

Background

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) and ADRs reporting among healthcare workers were related to the quality and ADRs reporting rate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the multifaceted interventions on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of healthcare workers and to compare the proportion of spontaneous ADRs reports at the study center, before and after instituting multifaceted interventions.

Methods

A comparative intervention study was conducted among healthcare workers at the hospital. The participants were asked to complete a questionnaire before and after instituting the multifaceted interventions to assess the KAP of ADRs and their reporting. The impact of the multifaceted interventions was assessed by comparing their correct responses to the KAP questions and the proportion of spontaneous ADRs reports before and after the interventions. The pre- and post-intervention scores for KAP questions were compared usingMcNemar test by R Language.

Results

388 healthcare workers completed the study. The proportion of participants qualified for ADRs reporting increased significantly, from 73.5% (pre–intervention) to 99.2% (post–intervention) for knowledge scores, from 70.6% to 91.8% for attitude scores, and from 81.4% to 97.2% for practice scores (p < 0.001). Similarly, the number of spontaneous ADRs reports increased by 31% after 3 months of interventions.

Conclusion

Multifaceted interventions instituted at the study center improved the knowledge, attitude, and practice of health workers towards ADRs and spontaneous reporting. It would be beneficial to implement such interventions in other hospitals in Vietnam.
Combined carbapenem resulted in a 4.48-fold increase in valproic acid clearance: a population pharmacokinetic model in Chinese children and adults with epilepsy or after neurosurgery
Authors: Zhang Luofei , Wu Ruoyun , Li Xingmeng , Feng Weixing , Zhao Zhigang , Mei Shenghui
Published: November 2024

Our study aims to explore the pharmacokinetics of valproic acid (VPA) in Chinese patients with epilepsy or after neurosurgery and establish a robust population pharmacokinetics (PPK) model. The PPK model was developed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling, incorporating a total of 615 VPA plasma concentration data points from 443 Chinese epilepsy or after neurosurgery patients. A one-compartment model with an additive residual model was established. Forward addition and backward elimination strategies were used to assess the impact of covariates on the model parameters. Goodness-of-fit plots, bootstrap, visual predict check and normalized prediction distribution errors were used for model validation. In the final model, the apparent clearance (CL) was estimated using the following formula: CL L/h=0.430×BW/600.787×Cr/50.3−0.253×ALB/39−0.873×egender×eCBP×eIND2 ×eηCL (gender = 0.121 when is female, otherwise = 0; CBP = 1.50 when combined with carbapenems, otherwise = 0; IND2 = 0.15 when combined with oxcarbazepine, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, or phenytoin, otherwise = 0). The volume of distribution (Vd) was estimated using the formula: Vd L=8.66×BW/600.751. Comedication with carbapenems could increase VPA clearance by 4.48 times, and comedication with oxcarbazepine could enhance VPA clearance by 116%. Besides, creatinine and albumin could affect VPA clearance. Goodness-of-fit plots, bootstrap, visual predict check and normalized prediction distribution showed acceptable data fit, stability, and predictability of the model. In our study, a PPK model was utilized to attain a more comprehensive insight into these variables, improving the accuracy and individualization of VPA therapy in Chinese patients with epilepsy or after neurosurgery.
Exploring exosomes: novel diagnostic and therapeutic frontiers in thyroid cancer
Authors: Zhang Sicheng , Yang Yan , Wang Dianri , Yang Xueting , Cai Yongcong , Shui Chunyan , Yang Ruoyi , Tian Wen , Li Chao
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has surged globally, posing significant challenges in its diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Exosomes, as a class of extracellular vesicles, are secreted by nearly all cell types and encapsulate a variety of nucleic acids and proteins reflective of their cell of origin, thereby facilitating critical intercellular communication. Recent advancements in understanding these exosomes have catalyzed their application in oncology, particularly through uncovering their roles in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of cancers. Notably, the latest literature highlights the integral role of exosomes in refining diagnostic techniques, enhancing targeted therapies, optimizing radiotherapy outcomes, and advancing immunotherapeutic approaches in thyroid cancer management. This review provides a current synthesis of the implications of exosomes in thyroid cancer tumorigenesis and progression, as well as their emerging applications in diagnosis and treatment strategies. Furthermore, we discuss the profound clinical potential of exosome-based interventions in managing thyroid cancer, serving as a foundational reference for future therapeutic developments.
Identification of sweetpotato virus disease-infected leaves from field images using deep learning
Authors: Ding Ziyu , Zeng Fanguo , Li Haifeng , Zheng Jianyu , Chen Junzhi , Chen Biao , Zhong Wenshan , Li Xuantian , Wang Zhangying , Huang Lifei , Yue Xuejun
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Sweetpotato virus disease (SPVD) is widespread and causes significant economic losses. Current diagnostic methods are either costly or labor-intensive, limiting both efficiency and scalability.

Methods

The segmentation algorithm proposed in this study can rapidly and accurately identify SPVD lesions from field-captured photos of sweetpotato leaves. Two custom datasets, DS-1 and DS-2, are utilized, containing meticulously annotated images of sweetpotato leaves affected by SPVD. DS-1 is used for training, validation, and testing the model, while DS-2 is exclusively employed to validate the model’s reliability. This study employs a deep learning-based semantic segmentation network, DeepLabV3+, integrated with an Attention Pyramid Fusion (APF) module. The APF module combines a channel attention mechanism with multi-scale feature fusion to enhance the model’s performance in disease pixel segmentation. Additionally, a novel data augmentation technique is utilized to improve recognition accuracy in the edge background areas of real large images, addressing issues of poor segmentation precision in these regions. Transfer learning is applied to enhance the model’s generalization capabilities.

Results

The experimental results indicate that the model, with 62.57M parameters and 253.92 Giga Floating Point Operations Per Second (GFLOPs), achieves a mean Intersection over Union (mIoU) of 94.63% and a mean accuracy (mAcc) of 96.99% on the DS-1 test set, and an mIoU of 78.59% and an mAcc of 79.47% on the DS-2 dataset.

Discussion

Ablation studies confirm the effectiveness of the proposed data augmentation and APF methods, while comparative experiments demonstrate the model’s superiority across various metrics. The proposed method also exhibits excellent detection results in simulated scenarios. In summary, this study successfully deploys a deep learning framework to segment SPVD lesions from field images of sweetpotato foliage, which will contribute to the rapid and intelligent detection of sweetpotato diseases.
Refining dual RNA-seq mapping: sequential and combined approaches in host-parasitic plant dynamics
Authors: Fruggiero Carmine , Aufiero Gaetano , D’Angelo Davide , Pasolli Edoardo , D’Agostino Nunzio
Published: November 2024

Transcriptional profiling in host plant-parasitic plant interactions is challenging due to the tight interface between host and parasitic plants and the percentage of homologous sequences shared. Dual RNA-seq offers a solution by enabling in silico separation of mixed transcripts from the interface region. However, it has to deal with issues related to multiple mapping and cross-mapping of reads in host and parasite genomes, particularly as evolutionary divergence decreases. In this paper, we evaluated the feasibility of this technique by simulating interactions between parasitic and host plants and refining the mapping process. More specifically, we merged host plant with parasitic plant transcriptomes and compared two alignment approaches: sequential mapping of reads to the two separate reference genomes and combined mapping of reads to a single concatenated genome. We considered Cuscuta campestris as parasitic plant and two host plants of interest such as Arabidopsis thaliana and Solanum lycopersicum. Both tested approaches achieved a mapping rate of ~90%, with only about 1% of cross-mapping reads. This suggests the effectiveness of the method in accurately separating mixed transcripts in silico. The combined approach proved slightly more accurate and less time consuming than the sequential approach. The evolutionary distance between parasitic and host plants did not significantly impact the accuracy of read assignment to their respective genomes since enough polymorphisms were present to ensure reliable differentiation. This study demonstrates the reliability of dual RNA-seq for studying host-parasite interactions within the same taxonomic kingdom, paving the way for further research into the key genes involved in plant parasitism.
Associations between major depressive disorder and performance-based and self-reported music cognition
Authors: Treviño-Soto Mariana , Gorozpe-Camargo Santiago , Cejudo-Camarena Álvaro , Fernández-Palacios María Elena , Uzárraga-Andrade Ana Claudia , Alamillo-Cuéllar Ana Isabel , Toledo-Fernández Aldebarán
Published: November 2024

Background

There is evidence that major depressive disorder (MDD) comes with multiple cognitive impairments including deficits in perception and memory. Music cognition is one of the least explored cognitive functions in relation to MDD, with some studies pointing to mild amusic deficits. These findings, however, are derived only from performance-based tests. Our objectives were to explore differences in music perception and memory between individuals with MDD and a control group, in both performance test and self-report of amusic dysfunction, and to assess the correlation between these measures.

Method

We recruited 62 participants, including MDD individuals (n = 34) diagnosed with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview and controls (n = 18). All the participants were evaluated with the Montreal Battery for Evaluation of Amusia (MBEA) and the Amusic Dysfunction Inventory (ADI).

Results

None of the assessed dimensions from the MBEA or the ADI showed statistical differences between groups. Some significant associations were found between ADI's Vocal Production and the MBEA's three tests of the melodic dimension (Scale, Contour and Interval) and between MBEA's Scale and Memory, Meter and ADI's Melodic Perception, and tests of Memory from each respective instrument.

Conclusion

Results suggest that perception and memory of basic music stimuli are not among the cognitive deficits within MDD, however, they may be indirectly affected by other cognitive phenomena common to this psychopathology, such as poor sustained concentration due to mental fatigue.
Prospectively predicting 6-month risk for non-suicidal self-injury among adolescents after psychiatric hospitalization based on a predictive model
Authors: Zhu Wenjuan , Cui Liping , Zhang Huijie , He Fang , Li Min , Du Xufang , Fan Xiaofen , Li Wanling
Published: November 2024

Background

It is challenging to predict the occurrence of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among adolescents over short periods. Moreover, the predictive value of indices for NSSI remains elusive. Thus, this study aimed to identify predictors of NSSI within 6 months among adolescents after psychiatric hospitalization by establishing a risk assessment model.

Methods

A total of 632 high-risk participants were included in this study. The distribution characteristics of adolescent NSSI were initially assessed through a cross-sectional survey, following which risk factors were identified using logistic regression analysis. The risk score method was then used to construct a 6-month risk assessment model for NSSI. Lastly, the predictive effect of the model was evaluated by indicators such as the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the positive predictive value.

Results

After 6 months, 412 cases of NSSI were identified. According to the logistic regression model, the frequency of relapses, medication status, and NSSI history were identified as influencing factors. Higher scores on the Impulsive Behavior Scale and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were associated with a higher risk of NSSI. Conversely, higher scores on the Pain and Belief Perception Scale were correlated with a lower risk of NSSI. Moreover, the area under the ROC curve for the predictive model was 0.9989, with a 95% confidence interval of (0.9979, 0.9999), highlighting its high predictive ability and accuracy. The predictive model was validated using 78 patients, yielding an area under the ROC curve of 0.9703 and a 95% confidence interval of (0.9167, 0.9999), demonstrating outstanding predictability.

Conclusion

These results collectively showed that the predictive model could accurately predict adolescent NSSI. Thus, the model’s primary variables may be applied to predict the risk of NSSI in the clinical setting.
Global overview of government-endorsed nutrition labeling policies of packaged foods: a document review
Authors: Afroza Ummay , Abrar Ahmad Khairul , Nowar Abira , Sobhan Sheikh Mohammad Mahbubus , Ide Nicole , Choudhury Sohel Reza
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Nutrition labeling provides nutritional information about nutrients present in a food product. It is commonly applied to packaged foods and beverages, where the information can be presented on the back or front of the pack as the nutrient declaration, nutrition and health claims, and supplementary nutrition information. Nutrition labeling is an important policy instrument for improving the nutritional quality of foods and promoting healthy diets, as it allows consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. This document review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of government-endorsed nutrition labeling policies related to nutrient declaration, nutrition claims, and supplementary nutrition information enforced worldwide.

Methods

We searched two nutrition policy databases, the Global database on the Implementation of Food and Nutrition Action (GIFNA) and the NOURISHING database, and government websites of some selected countries for the government-endorsed nutrition labeling policies published up to June 2023. We narrated the policy adopting countries' distribution by WHO regions, mode of implementation (voluntary or mandatory), and types of front-of-pack labels implemented.

Results

Globally, we found that 95 countries have mandatory policies for nutrient declarations on packages of processed products. These include 41 countries in Europe, 19 in America, 14 in the Western Pacific, nine in Africa, seven in the Eastern Mediterranean region, and five countries from South-East Asia. Additionally, 71 countries have policies on the use of nutrient claims like “fat-free,” “excellent source,” and “fortified.” European region has the highest number of countries (37) that have rules on nutrient claims. Front-of-pack labeling (FOPL) policies have been introduced in 44 countries as supplementary nutrition information. Of these, 16 countries have adopted FOPL as mandatory, while others have implemented it voluntarily. The FOPL systems include warning labels, keyhole logo, health star rating, traffic light labeling, nutri-score, and healthy choice logos.

Conclusion

Over recent years, the number of countries adopting mandatory nutrition labeling policies, especially FOPLs, has increased globally. Labeling policies should be evidence-based and follow the best practices to protect consumers from unhealthy nutrients and promote healthy eating. FOPL designs need to be selected based on country-specific evidence of effectiveness and appropriateness, avoiding industry influence.
Artificial intelligence in physical education: comprehensive review and future teacher training strategies
Authors: Wang Yuping , Wang Xinyan
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is deeply changing our lives and provides impetus for improving production and living efficiency as an important emerging tool. Digitalization and intelligent development have also become the development direction of the sports industry, bringing new requirements to the transformation of physical education (PE) and the improvement of the quality of PE teachers. PE is an important part of the public health system, and AI can deeply participate in the formulation of teaching strategies, the tracking of teaching processes and the evaluation of teaching results, effectively improving the quality of teaching. Research on the application of AI technology in PE has been carried out. This paper comprehensively reviews the existing research and conducts a comprehensive analysis of the research progress and status. The potential application areas of AI in PE are discussed to better promote the intelligent and digital upgrading of PE. We found that the research on the application of AI in PE is still in its early stages, and the research content needs to be strengthened in terms of breadth and depth. Furthermore, this paper analyzes the challenges faced by PE teacher development and training in the context of educational transformation in the era of AI, and explores the necessary skills and knowledge related to AI technology that future PE teachers should master in order to effectively achieve the improvement of teaching level and the sustainable development of public health system. The review of this paper provides valuable guidance for educators and policymakers to formulate high-quality teacher development and training mechanisms, and provides a new reference for the application and development of AI in sports.
Antibiotic exposure and risk of overweight/obesity in children: a biomonitoring-based study from eastern Jiangsu, China
Authors: Sun Huamin , Huang Jianping , Zhou Yijing , Guo Xinying , Jiao Man , Zhu Xingchen , Tan Weiwei , Zhang Weibing
Published: November 2024

Objective

To describe antibiotic exposure in children and explore its association with overweight/obesity.

Methods

In June 2022, 328 kindergarten and primary school children were selected from Nantong city in Jiangsu Province. Questionnaires were distributed, and morning urine samples were obtained. Total urinary concentrations of 41 antibiotics were measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. The rates of antibiotic exposure were expressed as percentages (%), specific percentiles (P95 and P99), and the maximum values were used to describe the concentration of antibiotics. The association between urinary antibiotic creatinine-adjusted and overweight/obesity was analyzed using logistic regression.

Results

A total of 328 children were initially recruited, of which 295 aged 3–8 years met the inclusion criteria and were finally included in the study. The biomonitoring results revealed that 35 antibiotics were detected, with a total detection frequency of 98.31%. Among the included children, 24.75% were classified as overweight/obesity. Multinomial logistic regression analyses revealed significant associations between overweight/obese and exposure to veterinary antibiotics (VAs) and preferred veterinary antibiotics (PVAs). After adjusting for various overweight/obesity-relevant variables, higher exposure to sulfamethoxazole [OR = 2.35, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.17–4.70], norfloxacin (OR = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.01–7.08), and fluoroquinolones (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.02–3.78) were significantly associated with overweight/obesity (p < 0.05). In addition, after stratification by sex and adjustment for confounding variables, sex-specific differences were observed in the association between antibiotic exposure and overweight/obesity. Notably, these associations were predominantly observed among boys.

Conclusion

Children were extensively exposed to antibiotics. Exposure to certain types of veterinary antibiotics and preferred veterinary antibiotic exposure, mainly through food or drinking water, are associated with an increased risk of overweight/obesity in children.
Fish sensor network: WSN application for fishermen
Authors: Suherman  , Al-Akaidi Marwan
Published: November 2024

The scarcity of marine life caused by shallow waters and pollution has pushed fishermen to venture up to 10 km offshore, where clearer waters offer richer fish resources, but at much higher fuel costs. This situation has caused increased unemployment, so many fishermen have changed professions. This is exacerbated by seasonal variations and resource limitations. This research introduces a fish sensor network (FSN), which is designed to equip floating fish houses (FADs) with network-connected fish sensors. The proposed network allows fishermen to find locations with high fish populations, thereby reducing fuel costs and increasing fishing efficiency. This article presents preliminary findings, identifies potential challenges including natural factors such as wind, waves, currents, corrosion, and radio propagation, as well as man-made obstacles such as traffic density and physical measurements at the research site in Belawan, Indonesia. Additionally, this paper briefly discusses the energy availability that poses further challenges.
Global insights: ChatGPT's influence on academic and research writing, creativity, and plagiarism policies
Authors: Malik Muhammad Abid , Amjad Amjad Islam , Aslam Sarfraz , Fakhrou Abdulnaser
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The current study explored the influence of Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) on the concepts, parameters, policies, and practices of creativity and plagiarism in academic and research writing.

Methods

Data were collected from 10 researchers from 10 different countries (Australia, China, the UK, Brazil, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Nigeria, Trinidad and Tobago, and Turkiye) using semi-structured interviews. NVivo was employed for data analysis.

Results

Based on the responses, five themes about the influence of ChatGPT on academic and research writing were generated, i.e., opportunity, human assistance, thought-provoking, time-saving, and negative attitude. Although the researchers were mostly positive about it, some feared it would degrade their writing skills and lead to plagiarism. Many of them believed that ChatGPT would redefine the concepts, parameters, and practices of creativity and plagiarism.

Discussion

Creativity may no longer be restricted to the ability to write, but also to use ChatGPT or other large language models (LLMs) to write creatively. Some suggested that machine-generated text might be accepted as the new norm; however, using it without proper acknowledgment would be considered plagiarism. The researchers recommended allowing ChatGPT for academic and research writing; however, they strongly advised it to be regulated with limited use and proper acknowledgment.