bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Up-regulation of LCN2 in the anterior cingulate cortex contributes to neural injury-induced chronic pain
Authors: Song Xiang-Jie , Yang Chen-Ling , Chen Danyang , Yang Yumeng , Mao Yu , Cao Peng , Jiang Aijun , Wang Wei , Zhang Zhi , Tao Wenjuan
Published: June 2023

Chronic pain caused by disease or injury affects more than 30% of the general population. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning the development of chronic pain remain unclear, resulting in scant effective treatments. Here, we combined electrophysiological recording, in vivo two-photon (2P) calcium imaging, fiber photometry, Western blotting, and chemogenetic methods to define a role for the secreted pro-inflammatory factor, Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), in chronic pain development in mice with spared nerve injury (SNI). We found that LCN2 expression was upregulated in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) at 14 days after SNI, resulting in hyperactivity of ACC glutamatergic neurons (ACCGlu) and pain sensitization. By contrast, suppressing LCN2 protein levels in the ACC with viral constructs or exogenous application of neutralizing antibodies leads to significant attenuation of chronic pain by preventing ACCGlu neuronal hyperactivity in SNI 2W mice. In addition, administering purified recombinant LCN2 protein in the ACC could induce pain sensitization by inducing ACCGlu neuronal hyperactivity in naïve mice. This study provides a mechanism by which LCN2-mediated hyperactivity of ACCGlu neurons contributes to pain sensitization, and reveals a new potential target for treating chronic pain.
Single-cell transcriptomics combined with proteomics of intrathecal IgG reveal transcriptional heterogeneity of oligoclonal IgG-secreting cells in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Polak Justyna , Wagnerberger Johanna H. , Torsetnes Silje Bøen , Lindeman Ida , Høglund Rune A. Aa. , Vartdal Frode , Sollid Ludvig M. , Lossius Andreas
Published: June 2023

The phenotypes of B lineage cells that produce oligoclonal IgG in multiple sclerosis have not been unequivocally determined. Here, we utilized single-cell RNA-seq data of intrathecal B lineage cells in combination with mass spectrometry of intrathecally synthesized IgG to identify its cellular source. We found that the intrathecally produced IgG matched a larger fraction of clonally expanded antibody-secreting cells compared to singletons. The IgG was traced back to two clonally related clusters of antibody-secreting cells, one comprising highly proliferating cells, and the other consisting of more differentiated cells expressing genes associated with immunoglobulin synthesis. These findings suggest some degree of heterogeneity among cells that produce oligoclonal IgG in multiple sclerosis.
Induced pluripotent stem cell model revealed impaired neurovascular interaction in genetic small vessel disease Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Zhang Wenjun , Zhao Xiangjun , Qi Xuewei , Kimber Susan J. , Hooper Nigel M. , Wang Tao
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is the most common genetic small vessel disease caused by variants in the NOTCH3 gene. Patients with CADASIL experience recurrent strokes, developing into cognitive defect and vascular dementia. CADASIL is a late-onset vascular condition, but migraine and brain MRI lesions appear in CADASIL patients as early as their teens and twenties, suggesting an abnormal neurovascular interaction at the neurovascular unit (NVU) where microvessels meet the brain parenchyma.

Methods

To understand the molecular mechanisms of CADASIL, we established induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models from CADASIL patients and differentiated the iPSCs into the major NVU cell types including brain microvascular endothelial-like cells (BMECs), vascular mural cells (MCs), astrocytes and cortical projection neurons. We then built an in vitro NVU model by co-culturing different neurovascular cell types in Transwells and evaluated the blood brain barrier (BBB) function by measuring transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER).

Results

Results showed that, while the wild-type MCs, astrocytes and neurons could all independently and significantly enhance TEER of the iPSC-BMECs, such capability of MCs from iPSCs of CADASIL patients was significantly impaired. Additionally, the barrier function of the BMECs from CADASIL iPSCs was significantly decreased, accompanied with disorganized tight junctions in iPSC-BMECs, which could not be rescued by the wild-type MCs or sufficiently rescued by the wild-type astrocytes and neurons.

Discussion

Our findings provide new insight into early disease pathologies on the neurovascular interaction and BBB function at the molecular and cellular levels for CADASIL, which helps inform future therapeutic development.
Altered metabolic-functional coupling in the epileptogenic network could predict surgical outcomes of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Yuan Siyu , Huang Hui , Cai Bingyang , Li Jiwei , Zhang Miao , Luo Jie
Published: June 2023

Objective

To investigate the relationship between glucose metabolism and functional activity in the epileptogenic network of patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) and to determine whether this relationship is associated with surgical outcomes.

Methods

18F-FDG PET and resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) scans were performed on a hybrid PET/MR scanner in 38 MTLE patients with hippocampal sclerosis (MR-HS), 35 MR-negative patients and 34 healthy controls (HC). Glucose metabolism was measured using 18F-FDG PET standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) relative to cerebellum; Functional activity was obtained by fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF). The betweenness centrality (BC) of metabolic covariance network and functional network were calculated using graph theoretical analysis. Differences in SUVR, fALFF, BC and the spatial voxel-wise SUVR-fALFF couplings of the epileptogenic network, consisting of default mode network (DMN) and thalamus, were evaluated by Mann-Whitney U test (using the false discovery rate [FDR] for multiple comparison correction). The top ten SUVR-fALFF couplings were selected by Fisher score to predict surgical outcomes using logistic regression model.

Results

The results showed decreased SUVR-fALFF coupling in the bilateral middle frontal gyrus (PFDR = 0.0230, PFDR = 0.0296) in MR-HS patients compared to healthy controls. Coupling in the ipsilateral hippocampus was marginally increased (PFDR = 0.0802) in MR-HS patients along with decreased BC of metabolic covariance network and functional network (PFDR = 0.0152; PFDR = 0.0429). With Fisher score ranking, the top ten SUVR-fALFF couplings in regions from DMN and thalamic subnuclei could predict surgical outcomes with the best performance being a combination of ten SUVR-fALFF couplings with an AUC of 0.914.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the altered neuroenergetic coupling in the epileptogenic network is associated with surgical outcomes of MTLE patients, which may provide insight into their pathogenesis and help with preoperative evaluation.
Transarterial chemoembolization with or without multikinase inhibitors for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Dong Han , Ge Dongfang , Qu Biao , Zhu Ping , Wu Qibiao , Wang Tianyun , Wang Jue , Li Zheng
Published: June 2023

Background

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing the combination therapy of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus multikinase inhibitor (MKI) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have yielded inconsistent results.

Methods

In this work, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to compare the TACE+MKI combination therapy versus TACE monotherapy in HCC patients with time to progression (TTP) adopted as primary outcome.

Results

A total of 10 RCTs comprising 2837 patients receiving combination therapy (TACE plus sorafenib, brivanib, orantinib or apatinib) were included. TACE+MKI significantly prolonged TTP (hazard ratio [HR] 0.74, 95% CI 0.62-0.89, p=0.001) versus TACE monotherapy. Subgroup analysis suggested MKI administration before TACE might be preferable to post-TACE MKI for TTP. TACE+MKI also increased objective response rate (ORR) (risk ratio [RR] 1.17, 95% CI 1.03-1.32, p=0.01), but failed to improve overall survival (OS) (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.86-1.13, p=0.82) and progression-free survival (PFS) (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.50-1.12, p=0.16). The incidence of any adverse event (AE) did not significantly differ between TACE+MKI and TACE groups (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.96-1.42, p=0.01), while serious AEs showed significant difference (RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.26-1.59, p<0.0001). Nevertheless, these AEs showing significant difference were mainly associated with MKI toxicities rather than TACE.

Conclusions

TACE+MKI combination therapy improved TTP and ORR but not OS and PFS in patients with unresectable HCC. Further high-quality trials are needed to verify these clinical benefits, and our findings could be very informative for future trial design.
Shutting off the fuel supply to target metabolic vulnerabilities in multiple myeloma
Authors: Rana Priyanka S. , Goparaju Krishna , Driscoll James J.
Published: June 2023

Pathways that govern cellular bioenergetics are deregulated in tumor cells and represent a hallmark of cancer. Tumor cells have the capacity to reprogram pathways that control nutrient acquisition, anabolism and catabolism to enhance their growth and survival. Tumorigenesis requires the autonomous reprogramming of key metabolic pathways that obtain, generate and produce metabolites from a nutrient-deprived tumor microenvironment to meet the increased bioenergetic demands of cancer cells. Intra- and extracellular factors also have a profound effect on gene expression to drive metabolic pathway reprogramming in not only cancer cells but also surrounding cell types that contribute to anti-tumor immunity. Despite a vast amount of genetic and histologic heterogeneity within and between cancer types, a finite set of pathways are commonly deregulated to support anabolism, catabolism and redox balance. Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematologic malignancy in adults and remains incurable in the vast majority of patients. Genetic events and the hypoxic bone marrow milieu deregulate glycolysis, glutaminolysis and fatty acid synthesis in MM cells to promote their proliferation, survival, metastasis, drug resistance and evasion of immunosurveillance. Here, we discuss mechanisms that disrupt metabolic pathways in MM cells to support the development of therapeutic resistance and thwart the effects of anti-myeloma immunity. A better understanding of the events that reprogram metabolism in myeloma and immune cells may reveal unforeseen vulnerabilities and advance the rational design of drug cocktails that improve patient survival.
Tumor-associated M2 macrophages in the immune microenvironment influence the progression of renal clear cell carcinoma by regulating M2 macrophage-associated genes
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxu , Sun Yang , Ma Yushuo , Gao Chengwen , Zhang Youzhi , Yang Xiaokun , Zhao Xia , Wang Wei , Wang Lisheng
Published: June 2023

Background

Renal clear cell carcinoma (RCC) has negative prognosis and high mortality due to its early diagnosis difficulty and early metastasis. Although previous studies have confirmed the negative progression of RCC is closely related to M2 macrophages in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), the specific mechanism is still unknown

Methods

We used immunofluorescence labeling and flow cytometry to detect the proportion of M2 macrophages in RCC tissues. And bioinformatics technique was used to obtain 9 M2 macrophage-related model genes, including SLC40A1, VSIG4, FUCA1, LIPA, BCAT1, CRYBB1, F13A, TMEM144, COLEC12. Using these genes, model formulas are constructed to devide samples into high and low risk groups, and then the overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of the high and low risk groups were analyzed. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to measure the expression of model genes between normal kidney tissue and RCC tissue, as well as between HK-2 cell and 786-O cell. Besides, we induced the M2 differentiation of THP-1 cell, and then co-cultured with the RCC cell 786-O in transwell to observe what effect M2 macrophages will cause on the invasion, migration and the expression of model genes of RCC.

Results

Our study demonstrated M2 macrophages in RCC was about 2 folds that of normal renal tissue (P<0.0001) and M2 macrophages affected the prognosis of patients with RCC by affecting the co-expressed genes, which were mainly enriched in immune-related pathways. The results of in vitro experiments showed that in RCC tissues and 786-O cells, the model gene FUCA1 was down-regulated, and SLC40A1, VSIG4, CRYBB1 and LIPA were up-regulated. Besides, the results of co-culture showed that after 786-O co-culture with M2 macrophages, the ability of migration and invasion was promoted and the expressions of FUCA1, SLC40A1, VSIG4, CRYBB1, LIPA and TMEM144 were all up-regulated.

Conclusion

The proportion of tumor-associated M2 macrophages in RCC tissues is upregulated, and M2 macrophages promote the progression of RCC by regulating the expression of SLC40A1, VSIG4, FUCA1, LIPA, BCAT1, CRYBB1, F13A, TMEM144, COLEC12 genes, thereby affecting the prognosis of patients with RCC.
Sulfatinib, a novel multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor of FGFR1, CSF1R, and VEGFR1–3, suppresses osteosarcoma proliferation and invasion via dual role in tumor cells and tumor microenvironment
Authors: Liao Song , Li Jianxiong , Gao Song , Han Yuchen , Han Xinli , Wu Yanan , Bi Jingyou , Xu Meng , Bi Wenzhi
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Tumor progression is driven by intrinsic malignant behaviors caused by gene mutation or epigenetic modulation, as well as crosstalk with the components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Considering the current understanding of the tumor microenvironment, targeting the immunomodulatory stromal cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) could provide a potential therapeutic strategy. Here, we investigated the effect of sulfatinib, a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) of FGFR1, CSF1R, and VEGFR1–3, on the treatment of osteosarcoma (OS).

Methods

In vitro, the antitumor effect was tested by clony formation assay and apoptosis assay.The inhibition of tumor migration and invasion was detected by Transwell assay, and the de-polarization of macrophage was detected by flow cytometry.In vivo, subcutaneous and orthotopic tumor models were established to verify antitumor effect, and the underlying mechanism was verified by immunohistochemistry(IHC), immunofluorescence(IF) and flow cytometry.

Results

Sulfatinib suppressed OS cell migration and invasion by inhibiting epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) by blocking the secretion of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in an autocrine manner. In addition, it regulated immune TME via inhibition of the migration of skeletal stem cells (SSCs) to the TME and the differentiation from SSCs to CAFs. Moreover, sulfatinib can suppress OS by modulation of the TME by inhibiting M2 polarization of macrophages. Systemic treatment of sulfatinib can reduce immunosuppression cells M2-TAMs, Tregs, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and increase cytotoxic T-cell infiltration in tumors, the lungs, and the spleens.

Discussion

Our preclinical experiments have shown that sulfatinib can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS by playing a dual role on tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment simultaneously and systematically reverse immunosuppression to immune activation status, which could be translated into clinical trials.
Immune cell proportions correlate with clinicogenomic features and ex vivo drug responses in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Romine Kyle A. , Bottomly Daniel , Yashar William , Long Nicola , Viehdorfer Matthew , McWeeney Shannon K. , Tyner Jeffrey W.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The implementation of small-molecule and immunotherapies in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been challenging due to genetic and epigenetic variability amongst patients. There are many potential mechanisms by which immune cells could influence small-molecule or immunotherapy responses, yet, this area remains understudied.

Methods

Here we performed cell type enrichment analysis from over 560 AML patient bone marrow and peripheral blood samples from the Beat AML dataset to describe the functional immune landscape of AML.

Results

We identify multiple cell types that significantly correlate with AML clinical and genetic features, and we also observe significant correlations of immune cell proportions with ex vivo small-molecule and immunotherapy responses. Additionally, we generated a signature of terminally exhausted T cells (Tex) and identified AML with high monocytic proportions as strongly correlating with increased proportions of these immunosuppressive T cells.

Discussion

Our work, which is accessible through a new “Cell Type” module in our visualization platform (Vizome; http://vizome.org/), can be leveraged to investigate potential contributions of different immune cells on many facets of the biology of AML.
Case Report: Effects of multiple myeloma therapy on essential thrombocythemia and vice versa: a case of synchronous dual hematological malignancy
Authors: Krishnan Nupur , Price Russell , Kotchetkov Rouslan
Published: June 2023

Background

Dual hematological malignancies, asynchronous or synchronous, are underrecognized entities and are usually suspected when clinical, hematological, or biochemical features cannot be explained by the primary malignancy alone. We present a case of synchronous dual hematological malignancies (SDHMs), where the patient was diagnosed with symptomatic multiple myeloma (MM) and essential thrombocythemia (ET), when excessive thrombocytosis occurred following initiation of MPV (melphalan–prednisone–bortezomib) antimyeloma therapy.

Case description

An 86-year-old woman presented to the emergency in May 2016 with confusion, hypercalcemia, and acute kidney injury. She was diagnosed with free light chain (FLC) lambda and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) lambda MM and started MPV (standard of care at that time) treatment with darbopoietin support. At diagnosis, she had normal platelet count since the ET was likely masked by bone marrow suppression due to active MM. After she reached stringent complete remission with no MP detected on serum protein electrophoresis or immunofixation, we noticed that her platelet counts increased to 1,518,000 × 109/L. She was tested positive for mutation in exon 9 of calreticulin (CALR). We concluded that she had concomitant CALR-positive ET. After bone marrow recovery from MM, the ET became clinically apparent. We started hydroxyurea for ET. Treatment for MM with MPV did not affect the course of ET. Presence of concomitant ET did not decrease the efficacy of sequential antimyeloma therapies in our elderly and frail patient.

Conclusion

The possible mechanism underlying the occurrence of SDHMs is unclear but is likely due to stem cell differentiation defects. SDHMs can be challenging to treat and warrant several considerations. In the absence of clear guidelines on how to manage SDHMs, management decisions depend on several factors including disease aggressiveness, age, frailty, and comorbidities.
A retinal origin of nystagmus—a perspective
Authors: Kamermans Maarten , Winkelman Beerend H. J. , Hölzel M-B. , Howlett Marcus H. C. , Kamermans Wouter , Simonsz H. J. , de Zeeuw C. I.
Published: June 2023

Congenital nystagmus is a condition where the eyes of patients oscillate, mostly horizontally, with a frequency of between 2 and 10 Hz. Historically, nystagmus is believed to be caused by a maladaptation of the oculomotor system and is thus considered a disease of the brain stem. However, we have recently shown that congenital nystagmus associated with congenital stationary night blindness is caused by synchronously oscillating retinal ganglion cells. In this perspective article, we discuss how some details of nystagmus can be accounted for by the retinal mechanism we propose.
Case Report: Off-label treatment of idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome with Omalizumab
Authors: Zhang Zhiyu , Sun Yingxin , Chen Su-Ning
Published: June 2023

Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (IHES) is a rare disease characterized by causeless persistent hypereosinophilia and eosinophilia-associated end-organ damage. Current treatment modalities don’t meet the needs due to adverse events of steroids as first-line therapy and the limited efficacy of second-line treatments, underscoring the need for new therapeutic strategies. Here we presented two cases of IHES with different clinical manifestations that were both refractory to corticosteroids. Patient #1 experienced rashes, cough, pneumonia, and steroid-induced side effects. Patient #2 had severe gastrointestinal symptoms attributed to hypereosinophilia. They both had high levels of serum IgE, didn’t respond well to second-line treatments of interferon-α (IFN-α) and imatinib, and Mepolizumab was not accessible. We then innovatively switched to Omalizumab, an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody approved for allergic asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria. Patient #1 was treated with Omalizumab 600 mg per month for 20 months; his absolute eosinophil count (AEC) decreased significantly and has stabilized at around 1.0×109/L for 17 months, with complete relief from erythra and cough. Patient #2 recovered promptly from severe diarrhea with a sharp drop in AEC after 3 months of treatment with omalizumab at 600 mg per month. Therefore, we concluded that Omalizumab may be a seminal therapeutic strategy for IHES patients who are refractory to corticosteroids, whether as long-term management of AEC or as an urgent intervention to address severe symptoms caused by eosinophilia.
The role of the SGK3/TOPK signaling pathway in the transition from acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease
Authors: Shu Huapan , Wang Yumei , Zhang Hui , Dong Qingqing , Sun Lulu , Tu Yuchi , Liao Qianqian , Feng Li , Yao Lijun
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Profibrotic phenotype of renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) featured with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and profibrotic factors secretion, and aberrant accumulation of CD206+ M2 macrophages are the key points in the transition from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms involved remain incompletely understood. Serum and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase (SGK) is a serine/threonine protein kinase, required for intestinal nutrient transport and ion channels modulation. T-LAK-cell-originated protein kinase (TOPK) is a member of the mitogen activated protein kinase family, linked to cell cycle regulation. However, little is known about their roles in AKI-CKD transition.

Methods: In this study, three models were constructed in C57BL/6 mice: low dose and multiple intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin, 5/6 nephrectomy and unilateral ureteral obstruction model. Rat renal tubular epithelial cells (NRK-52E) were dealt with cisplatin to induce profibrotic phenotype, while a mouse monocytic cell line (RAW264.7) were cultured with cisplatin or TGF-β1 to induce M1 or M2 macrophage polarization respectively. And co-cultured NRK-52E and RAW264.7 through transwell plate to explore the interaction between them. The expression of SGK3 and TOPK phosphorylation were detected by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and western blot analysis.

Results:In vivo, the expression of SGK3 and p-TOPK were gradually inhibited in TECs, but enhanced in CD206+ M2 macrophages. In vitro, SGK3 inhibition aggravated epithelial to mesenchymal transition through reducing the phosphorylation state of TOPK, and controlling TGF-β1 synthesis and secretion in TECs. However, SGK3/TOPK axis activation promoted CD206+ M2 macrophage polarization, which caused kidney fibrosis by mediating macrophage to myofibroblast transition (MMT). When co-cultured, the TGF-β1 from profibrotic TECs evoked CD206+ M2 macrophage polarization and MMT, which could be attenuated by SGK3/TOPK axis inhibition in macrophages. Conversely, SGK3/TOPK signaling pathway activation in TECs could reverse CD206+ M2 macrophages aggravated EMT.

Discussion: We revealed for the first time that SGK3 regulated TOPK phosphorylation to mediate TECs profibrotic phenotype, macrophage plasticity and the crosstalk between TECs and macrophages during AKI-CKD transition. Our results demonstrated the inverse effect of SGK3/TOPK signaling pathway in profibrotic TECs and CD206+ M2 macrophages polarization during the AKI-CKD transition.
Some thoughts on dynamic systems modeling of L2 learning
Authors: Van Geert Paul L.C.
Published: June 2023

The aim of this article is to present a very basic dynamic systems model of L2 learning based on a number of basic principles 1) at any moment in time, a learner’s L2 proficiency is a distribution of potentialities (possible levels of L2 production), 2) the distribution changes as a result of experienced L2-events such as conversations, 3) L2 proficiency and L2 events are represented on the same underlying array of linguistic proficiency (from 0, i.e., inexistent, to 1, i.e., maximal under the currently available linguistic resources); 4) learning processes are “normative” in the sense that they are governed by a process of convergence on the language spoken by a particular L2 community, this process depends on an optimum between familiarity and novelty; 5) the parameters governing the systems dynamic differ among individual learners and L2 learning contexts (e.g., highly adaptive versus non-adaptive communicative interactions with native L2 speakers).
Atomic magnetometers and their application in industry
Authors: Bai Xuanyao , Wen Kailun , Peng Donghong , Liu Shuangqiang , Luo Le
Published: June 2023

In modern detection techniques, high-precision magnetic field detection plays a crucial role. Atomic magnetometers stand out among other devices due to their high sensitivity, large detection range, low power consumption, high sampling rate, continuous gradient measurements, and good confidentiality. Atomic magnetometers have become a hot topic in the field of magnetometry due to their ability to measure not only the total strength of the Earth’s magnetic field, but also its gradients, both slow- and high-velocity transient magnetic fields, both strong and weak. In recent years, researchers have shifted their focus from improving the performance of atomic magnetometers to utilizing their exceptional capabilities for practical applications. The objective of this study is to explore the measurement principle and detection method of atomic magnetometers, and it also examines the technological means and research progress of atomic magnetometers in various industrial fields, including magnetic imaging, material examination, underwater magnetic target detection, and magnetic communication. Additionally, this study discusses the potential applications and future development trends of atomic magnetometers.
Scapular kinematics and muscle activity during Yi Jin Bang exercises
Authors: Liu Jinde , Hui Stanley Sai-chuen , Yang Yijian , Liu Yanhao , Song Qipeng , Mao Dewei
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Scapular dyskinesis is commonly associated with subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS). Addressing scapular dyskinesis is widely accepted as an important component of shoulder rehabilitation. Our previous randomized controlled trial showed that Yi Jin Bang (YJB) exercises could effectively manage SAPS, but scapular motions and muscle activity during YJB exercises remain unknown. This study examined scapular kinematics synchronously with scapular muscle activation during YJB exercises.

Methods: Thirty healthy participants with no shoulder complaints were enrolled in this study. Three-dimensional (3D) scapular kinematics and electromyography (EMG) activation of the upper trapezius, middle trapezius, lower trapezius, serratus anterior, anterior deltoid, middle deltoid, and posterior deltoid were synchronously measured during nine YJB movements.

Results: During all YJB movements, the scapula was upwardly rotated and anteriorly tilted, with more upward rotation and a similar or less anterior tilt than the mean resting scapular angle. Column rotation, arm crossover, shoulder support circle, and armpit support high lift generated more internal rotation than the mean resting scapular angle, with the angles of internal rotation significantly greater than the other five movements (p < 0.001). Regarding EMG activity, all YJB movements elicited low activity (1.42%–19.19% maximal voluntary isometric contraction [MVIC]) from the upper trapezius and posterior deltoid and low to moderate activity (0.52%–29.50% MVIC) from the middle trapezius, lower trapezius, serratus anterior, anterior deltoid, and middle deltoid.

Conclusion: YJB exercises could be useful in the middle to later phases of shoulder rehabilitation. For patients with insufficient external rotation, some YJB movements should be prescribed with caution.
RNA Interference-Based Forest Protection Products (FPPs) Against Wood-Boring Coleopterans: Hope or Hype?
Authors: Joga Mallikarjuna Reddy , Mogilicherla Kanakachari , Smagghe Guy , Roy Amit
Published: June 2023

Graphical Abstract

Three-tier impact of forest protection products (FPPs).
Challenges and potentials of new breeding techniques in Cannabis sativa
Authors: Ingvardsen Christina Rønn , Brinch-Pedersen Henrik
Published: June 2023

Cannabis sativa L. is an ancient crop used for fiber and seed production and not least for its content of cannabinoids used for medicine and as an intoxicant drug. Due to the psychedelic effect of one of the compounds, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), many countries had regulations or bands on Cannabis growing, also as fiber or seed crop. Recently, as many of these regulations are getting less tight, the interest for the many uses of this crop is increasing. Cannabis is dioecious and highly heterogenic, making traditional breeding costly and time consuming. Further, it might be difficult to introduce new traits without changing the cannabinoid profile. Genome editing using new breeding techniques might solve these problems. The successful use of genome editing requires sequence information on suitable target genes, a genome editing tool to be introduced into plant tissue and the ability to regenerate plants from transformed cells. This review summarizes the current status of Cannabis breeding, uncovers potentials and challenges of Cannabis in an era of new breeding techniques and finally suggests future focus areas that may help to improve our overall understanding of Cannabis and realize the potentials of the plant.
Droplet spatial distribution of oil-based emulsion spray
Authors: Gong Chen , Chen Fujun , Cui Bingbo , Wang Aichen , Zhang Zhao , Zhou Zhenjiang , Liu Yufei
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Oil-based emulsion solution is a common pesticide formulation in agricultural spraying, and its spray characteristics are different from that of water spraying. The well understanding of its spray characteristics is the theoretical basis to improve the pesticide spraying technology. The objective of the present study is to deepen the understanding of the spray characteristics of oil-based emulsion.

Method

In this paper, the spatial distribution characteristics of spray droplets of oil-based emulsion were captured visually using the high-speed photomicrography. On the basis of image processing method, the droplet size and distribution density of spray droplets at different spatial locations were analyzed quantitatively. The effects of nozzle configuration and emulsion concentration on spray structures and droplet spatial distribution were discussed.

Results

Oil-based emulsion produced a special perforation atomization mechanism compared with water spray, which led to the increase of spray droplet size and distribution density. Nozzle configuration had a significant effect on oil-based emulsion spray, with the nozzle changed from ST110-01 to ST110-03 and ST110-05; the sheet lengths increased to 18 and 28 mm, respectively, whereas the volumetric median diameters increased to 51.19% and 76.00%, respectively. With emulsion concentration increased from 0.02% to 0.1% and 0.5%, the volumetric median diameters increased to 5.17% and 14.56%, respectively.

Discussion

The spray droplet size of oil-based emulsion spray can be scaled by the equivalent diameter of discharge orifice of nozzles. The products of volumetric median diameters and corresponding surface tensions were nearly constant for the oil-based emulsion spray of different emulsion concentrations. It is expected that this research could provide theoretical support for improving the spraying technology of oil-based emulsion and increasing the utilization of pesticide.
Les Misérables: An analysis of low SWB across the world
Authors: Melios Georgios , Laffan Kate , Kudrna Laura , Dolan Paul
Published: June 2023

Global trends indicate that the prevalence of low subjective wellbeing is on the rise, though not all regions are equal in terms of both absolute levels and their trajectories. In this paper, we explore the relative importance of individual- and country-level factors in predicting low SWB. Put differently, we ask if a person found themselves behind a veil of ignorance, should they want to know who they will be or what country they will live in to better understand their risk of having low wellbeing. To answer this question, we leverage data from the most extensive wellbeing survey in the world—the Gallup World Poll. We explore people's likelihood of reporting low evaluative wellbeing (that their life is close to the worst possible life on the Cantril ladder) and low experiential wellbeing (reporting having felt angry, sad, stressed, and worried for most of the day yesterday). Using multilevel models on both measures, we show that individual factors have the greatest explanatory power across both measures, but that country level factors are almost four times more important in explaining the variation in low evaluative wellbeing than low experiential wellbeing around the world. We also present evidence that individual and country-level factors interact, suggesting that a complex system of people and places determines people's likelihood of reporting low SWB.
Moderating effect of classroom sociable norm on the relations between unsociability and internalizing problems in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Hu Yihao , Bullock Amanda , Zhou Ying , Liu Junsheng
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The goal of the present study was to examine the moderating effect of classroom sociable norm on the relations between unsociability and internalizing problems (the indicators included depression, loneliness and self-esteem) in Chinese adolescents.

Methods

Participants wereN = 1,160 adolescents in Grade 4–8 from Shanghai, People’s Republic of China. They completed questionnaires about unsociability, sociability, and social preference via peer nominations, while depression, loneliness, and self-esteem were collected via self-report.

Results

It was found that unsociability was positively associated with depression and loneliness, and negatively associated with self-esteem. Moreover, the relations between unsociability and indicators of internalizing problems were moderated by classroom sociable norm. More specifically, the significant positive associations between unsociability and depression and loneliness were stronger in classrooms with high sociable norm, and the negative association between unsociability and self-esteem was only significant in such classrooms.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that classroom sociable norm plays an important role in unsociable adolescents’ psychological adjustment in China. Researchers should focus more on the influence of classroom environment on adolescents’ development in future.
Public interest in different types of masks and its relationship with pandemic and policy measures during the COVID-19 pandemic: a study using Google Trends data
Authors: Yeung Andy Wai Kan , Parvanov Emil D. , Horbańczuk Jarosław Olav , Kletecka-Pulker Maria , Kimberger Oliver , Willschke Harald , Atanasov Atanas G.
Published: June 2023

Google Trends data have been used to investigate various themes on online information seeking. It was unclear if the population from different parts of the world shared the same amount of attention to different mask types during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to reveal which types of masks were frequently searched by the public in different countries, and evaluated if public attention to masks could be related to mandatory policy, stringency of the policy, and transmission rate of COVID-19. By referring to an open dataset hosted at the online database Our World in Data, the 10 countries with the highest total number of COVID-19 cases as of 9th of February 2022 were identified. For each of these countries, the weekly new cases per million population, reproduction rate (of COVID-19), stringency index, and face covering policy score were computed from the raw daily data. Google Trends were queried to extract the relative search volume (RSV) for different types of masks from each of these countries. Results found that Google searches for N95 masks were predominant in India, whereas surgical masks were predominant in Russia, FFP2 masks were predominant in Spain, and cloth masks were predominant in both France and United Kingdom. The United States, Brazil, Germany, and Turkey had two predominant types of mask. The online searching behavior for masks markedly varied across countries. For most of the surveyed countries, the online searching for masks peaked during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic before the government implemented mandatory mask wearing. The search for masks positively correlated with the government response stringency index but not with the COVID-19 reproduction rate or the new cases per million.
Catastrophic health expenditure of households with hypertension: a comparative study in China
Authors: Zhai Xiaohui , Zhou Zhongliang , Liu Guanping , Lu Jiao , Zhao Yaxin , Cao Dan , Zhao Dantong , Lai Sha , Fan Xiaojing
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to understand the impact of multimorbidity on catastrophic health expenditures for people with hypertension.

Methods

Data were obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2018, 8,342 adults were included in our analysis. Propensity score matching method was used to compare the risk of catastrophic health expenditures between the hypertension patients (treatment group) and those without any chronic disease (control group) in middle-aged and older adults. Patients with hypertension were also divided into two groups: only hypertension and multimorbidity.

Results

Hypertension increased the likelihood of CHE by 11.3% in older adults. Further analysis showed that hypertension alone does not increase the risk of CHE, and the risk of CHE in hypertension patients with multimorbidity was 12.9% higher than those without chronic disease.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the importance of healthy management of patients with only hypertension and preventing them from developing multimorbidity.
Sodium content in processed food items in Sweden compared to other countries: a cross-sectional multinational study
Authors: Karlsson Karin , Rådholm Karin , Dunford Elizabeth , Wu Jason H. Y. , Neal Bruce , Sundström Johan
Published: June 2023

Background

Dietary sodium has a dose-response relationship with cardiovascular disease, and sodium intake in Sweden exceeds national and international recommendations. Two thirds of dietary sodium intake comes from processed foods, and adults in Sweden eat more processed foods than any other European country. We hypothesized that sodium content in processed foods is higher in Sweden than in other countries. The aim of this study was to investigate sodium content in processed food items in Sweden, and how it differs from Australia, France, Hong Kong, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Methods

Data were collected from retailers by trained research staff using standardized methods. Data were categorized into 10 food categories and compared using Kruskal-Wallis test of ranks. Sodium content in the food items was compared in mg sodium per 100 g of product, based on the nutritional content labels on the packages.

Results

Compared to other countries, Sweden had among the highest sodium content in the “dairy” and “convenience foods” categories, but among the lowest in “cereal and grain products,” “seafood and seafood products” and “snack foods” categories. Australia had the overall lowest sodium content, and the US the overall highest. The highest sodium content in most analyzed countries was found in the “meat and meat products” category. The highest median sodium content in any category was found among “sauces, dips, spreads and dressings” in Hong Kong.

Conclusion

The sodium content differed substantially between countries in all food categories, although contrary to our hypothesis, processed foods overall had lower sodium content in Sweden than in most other included countries. Sodium content in processed food was nonetheless high also in Sweden, and especially so in increasingly consumed food categories, such as “convenience foods”.
Analysis on the factors associated with COVID-19 infection among Chinese residents after the implementation of the 10 new rules to optimize COVID-19 response: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Yunshu , Wang Sunyi , Yang Nan , Shi Yuwen , Yang Yingxiao , Zhu Zhixin , Li Xiuyang
Published: June 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the status of COVID-19 infection and the associated factors among Chinese residents after the implementation of the 10 New Rules to optimize COVID response.

Methods

Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. The study used self-filled questionnaires to examine COVID-19 infection and associated factors among Chinese residents, from December 29, 2022, to January 2, 2023. For the statistical analysis, descriptive and quantitative analyses were used. The potential risk factors for COVID-19 infection were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

After the adjustments in control strategies against COVID-19, the infection rate of COVID-19 was high among respondents, and 98.4% of individuals who tested positive showed symptoms including cough, fever, fatigue, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, sputum production, muscle and joint pain, and runny nose. The main problems respondents reported were the shortage of drugs and medical supplies, the increased burden on families, and the unreliable information source of COVID-19 infection. Logistic regression showed that isolating patients with COVID-19 at home was associated with a lower risk of COVID-19 infection (OR = 0.58, 95%CI: 0.42–0.81).

Conclusion

COVID-19 infection among residents is closely related to age, gender, and epidemic prevention measures. The government needs to strengthen education for individuals and centrally manage and properly address difficulties that may arise during COVID-19.
The public availability of hospital CHNA reports: limitations and potential to study hospital investments in the next phase of public health
Authors: Cronin Cory E. , Franz Berkeley
Published: June 2023

Nonprofit hospitals have been required to complete and make publicly available their community benefit reports for more than a decade, a sign of changing expectations for private health care organizations to explicitly collaborate with public health departments to improve community health. Despite these important changes to practice and policy, no governmental agency provides statistics regarding compliance with this process. To better understand the nature and usefulness of the data provided through these processes, we led a research team that collected and coded Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and Implementation Strategy (IS) Reports for a nationally representative sample of hospitals between 2018 and 2022. We utilized descriptive statistics to understand the frequency of noncompliance; t-tests and chi-square tests were employed to identify characteristics associated with incomplete documents. Approximately 95% of hospitals provided a public CHNA, and approximately 86% made their IS available. The extent of compliance with the CHNA/IS mandate indicates that these documents, paired with existing public health and policy data, offer considerable potential for understanding the investments nonprofit hospitals make to improve health outcomes and health equity in the communities they serve.
Immigration from Africa to the United States: key insights from recent research
Authors: Corra Mamadi
Published: June 2023

Immigration from Africa to the United States has increased dramatically in the past three decades. This paper summarizes recent findings on the growth of African immigration to the United States in recent years. In doing so, it highlights shifting sociodemographic profiles of these “new African Americans” or “new Americans,” profiling the increasing diversity, yet also racialized portrait of this group. Key patterns of immigration shown include the changing racial and gender composition of immigrants, as well as rising immigration from a wider range of African countries. Some key theoretical and practical implications are outlined.
A systematic review of physical activity: benefits and needs for maintenance of quality of life among adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Jacob Udeme Samuel , Pillay Jace , Johnson Ensa , Omoya Oluwatomilayo (Tomi) , Adedokun Adewale Philip
Published: June 2023

The inactivity of people with intellectual disabilities (PwID) is a major contributor to ill health. Probably because people with intellectual disabilities are not adequately informed about physical activity and intervention programs required to enhance their fitness. This study critically reviewed physical activity: benefits and needs for maintenance of quality of life among adults with intellectual disability. An extensive search of bibliographic databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, BioMed Central and Medline identified 735 academic papers. The research rigour was evaluated, and the validity of the findings was established. Based on the inclusion criteria, 15 studies were included in the review. Various forms of physical activity were studied as interventions. The results of a critical review indicate that physical activity has a moderate to strong positive impact on weight loss, sedentary behaviour, and disability-related quality of life. Adults with ID may benefit from physical activity as a non-pharmaceutical method of improving their health needs. However, this study's results may only apply to some adults with intellectual disabilities. The sample size needs to be increased in future studies in order to draw generalizable conclusions.