bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Transformative Role of Artificial Intelligence in Psychiatry: Enhancing Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Janardan Vipul , Kumar Manoj , Singh Prabhleen
Published: March 2024

This article delves into the groundbreaking applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in psychiatry, revolutionizing the field and improving patient care. AI technologies have shown immense potential in augmenting diagnostic accuracy, predicting treatment outcomes, and facilitating personalized therapeutic interventions. This article reviews the latest advancements and discusses the ethical considerations associated with AI integration in psychiatric practice.
Sexualidade e gênero na escola: construindo atividades formativas na rede pública de ensino através do PIBID.
Authors: Torres Juliana Rezende , Amaral Raisa Carolina Carvalho , Oliveira Ana Lucia Castro , Souza Iolanda Almeida , Oliveira Laura Alves , Martinez Rodrigo Diego Cinto
Published: March 2024

O Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID) vem se configurando como uma importante polí­tica pública para o fortalecimento da formação inicial e permanente de professores, articulando universidade e escola básica. Neste contexto o presente trabalho vem explicitar as ações formativas construí­das e vividas no ano de 2014, em um subprojeto PIBID vinculado ao curso de Licenciatura em Ciências Biológicas da Universidade Federal de São Carlos campus Sorocaba, em parceria com a E. E. Professor Benedicto Leme Vieira Neto localizada na cidade de Salto de Pirapora - SP. A partir de uma pesquisa sociocultural deu-se iní­cio às atividades junto aos educandos do ensino médio, com o intuito de compreender as contradições e problemáticas vividas pela comunidade escolar. A partir dessa investigação e da demanda identificada pela escola – gravidez na adolescência – ocorreram desdobramentos para a abordagem de assuntos referentes às construções de sexualidade e gênero, com base nos procedimentos dos Momentos Pedagógicos. O processo de elaboração e desenvolvimento das ações formativas envolvendo docentes do ensino superior e básico, bem como licenciandas em processo de formação inicial constitui o foco dos resultados apresentados e discutidos.
Educação Ambiental e Meio Ambiente: noções de professores do Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Heerdt Bettina , Motta Rodrigo de Assis
Published: March 2024

Conhecer as noções dos professores a respeito do Meio Ambiente (MA) e Educação Ambiental (EA) é fundamental para a compreensão da relação entre essas noções e suas práticas pedagógicas, bem como para se elaborar processos formativos em EA de modo adequado. O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar como os professores do Ensino Fundamental compreendem a prática da EA na escola, bem como suas noções de MA e dos problemas ambientais. A metodologia desta pesquisa é qualitativa, sendo que para a coleta de dados foi aplicado um questionário aberto, as respostas foram unitarizadas utilizando a análise de conteúdo temática categorial. A maioria dos professores apresenta uma noção generalista de meio ambiente (47,3%) o que representa uma forma muito ampla, vaga e abstrata de definição. Em relação à EA nas escolas os professores descrevem ações pedagógicas que incentivam a ação e a reflexão. Quanto aos problemas ambientais locais, os professores descrevem com maior frequência os problemas relacionados aos resí­duos sólidos e a poluição hí­drica.
Currí­culo e formação de professores: da simplificação ao pensamento complexo
Authors: Araújo Rafaele Rodrigues de , Tauchen Gionara , Heckler Valmir
Published: March 2024

Neste artigo, iremos problematizar as compreensões sobre a complexidade do currí­culo disciplinar numa concepção (re)significativa, evidenciando as possibilidades para a constituição na formação interdisciplinar de professores em Ciências da Natureza. Em vista disso, apresentamos e discutimos a organização curricular de um curso de Licenciatura em Ciências da Natureza de uma universidade pública no sul do Brasil, na perspectiva do pensamento complexo. Para a análise, estabelecemos as relações entre o currí­culo e a interdisciplinaridade, as mudanças paradigmáticas, perpassando por um debate acerca da polí­tica curricular para a formação do currí­culo proposto, bem como, apontando os limites e as possibilidades emergentes de um currí­culo como um programa e como uma estratégia. Essa investigação se caracteriza por ser de caráter qualitativo e documental, baseando-se por meio da hermenêutica como metodologia de análise, na perspectiva do currí­culo programa/estratégia, dentro de um paradigma emergente/complexo, em que a interdisciplinaridade é registrada como possí­vel de acontecer nos componentes curriculares, por meio da incerteza nas pré-compreensões que fazem parte desse processo. A estrutura curricular ocorre através de um caráter multidimensional, sem prever uma relação lógica, sendo, dessa forma, indispensável o coletivo de professores em que esquematizam ações de formação interdisciplinar, num processo de heteroformação. A metodologia de ensino e aprendizagem será realizada na prática da sala de aula, na interação com os estudantes e o ambiente em que esses fazem parte, constituindo o que significamos como ecoformação. Na compreensão, o estudo possibilitou compreender que o currí­culo em análise ainda apresenta caracterí­sticas intensas do paradigma simplificador. Compreensão essa que permite refletirmos a organização curricular, visando um currí­culo programa/estratégia, a partir do pensamento complexo, buscando uma formação inicial de professores interdisciplinares em um processo auto-eco-formador.
Ensino de zoologia: concepções e metodologias na prática docente
Authors: Richter Elivelto , Lenz Guilherme , Do Espírito Santo Hermel Erica , Da Costa GÃ¼llich Roque Ismael
Published: March 2024

O Ensino de zoologia deve ser refletido e investigado constantemente a fim de propor avanços nas propostas de prática pedagógica para transformá-la. O presente trabalho expressa uma pesquisa de caráter documental que investiga as concepções e metodologias utilizadas no Ensino de Zoologia. O objeto de estudo foram os resumos publicados na seção de ensino de zoologia, do Congresso Brasileiro de Zoologia (CBZ), entre os anos de 2004 e 2014. Ao todo, foram analisados 167 trabalhos e identificadas as concepções docentes, as modalidades didáticas, os ní­veis de ensino da aplicação da prática pedagógica e a localização das pesquisas em regiões brasileiras. Os resultados apontam para predominância de concepções técnicas (49, 1 %), seguido por concepções práticas (31,1%) e emancipatórias (19,8 %). Também constatamos que existe uma diversidade metodológica no ensino de zoologia, mas em termos qualitativos há predominância de modalidades didáticas que configuram apenas ferramentas técnicas de ensino, pouco discutindo o processo de ensino e aprendizagem. Grande parte dos trabalhos foi produzida na educação básica, e a região do paí­s que mais produziu trabalhos foi a Nordeste. Inferimos que professores devem constantemente investigar e refletir suas ações, identificando obstáculos e tentando superá-los. O ensino de zoologia deve ser ancorado em concepções e metodologias que estão em concordância com a realidade do aluno, da escola e da sociedade, em constante transformação e reformulação, na busca de um ensino de biologia de melhor qualidade.
Expand-contract plasticity on the real line
Authors: Langemann Dirk , Zavarzina Olesia
Published: March 2024

The study deals with plastic and non-plastic sub-spaces A of the real-line ℝ with the usual Euclidean metric d. It investigates non-expansive bijections, proves properties of such maps, and demonstrates their relevance by hands of examples. Finally, it is shown that the plasticity property of a sub-space A contains at least two complementary questions, a purely geometric and a topological one. Both contribute essential aspects to the plasticity property and get more critical in higher dimensions and more abstract metric spaces.
Novel bioactive extract from yarrow obtained by the supercritical antisolvent-assisted technique inhibits lipid metabolism in colorectal cancer
Authors: Gómez de Cedrón Marta , Siles-Sanchez Maria de las Nieves , Martín-Hernandez Diego , Jaime Laura , Santoyo Susana , Ramírez de Molina Ana
Published: March 2024

Background: Altered lipid metabolism in cancer is associated to dissemination and prognosis. Bioactive compounds naturally occurring in Achillea millefolium L. (yarrow) have been reported to exert antitumour activities. Food biotechnology may provide on-demand mixtures of bioactive compounds with complementary activities in cancer treatment.

Methods: Supercritical-antisolvent-precipitation (SAS) has been applied to fractionate the bioactive compounds from an Ultrasound-Assisted-Extraction yarrow extract resulting in two extracts with distinct polarity, yarrow-precipitate-(PP) and yarrow-separator-(Sep). Total phenolic content and relevant essential oils have been characterized. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities have been compared. Moreover, the effect on the inhibition of colorectal cancer cells’ bioenergetics has been evaluated.

Results: Yarrow-PP exerted the highest antioxidant activity, even higher than the complete UAE-yarrow extract, meanwhile yarrow-Sep showed the highest anti-inflammatory activity, even higher than the complete UAE-yarrow extract. Interestingly, yarrow-Sep inhibited key lipid metabolic targets in CRC cells extensively shown to be implicated in cancer dissemination and prognosis —SREBF1, FASN, ABCA1 and HMGCR— and epithelial to mesenchymal targets—CDH1, ATP1B1, CDH2 and Vimentin—augmenting cell adhesion.

Conclusions: In summary, SAS technology has been applied to provide a novel combination of bioactive compounds, yarrow-Sep, which merits further research to be proposed as a potential complementary nutraceutical in the treatment of CRC.
Effects of non-invasive cervical spinal cord neuromodulation by trans-spinal electrical stimulation on cortico-muscular descending patterns in upper extremity of chronic stroke
Authors: Zhang Jianing , Wang Maner , Alam Monzurul , Zheng Yong-Ping , Ye Fuqiang , Hu Xiaoling
Published: March 2024

Background: Trans-spinal electrical stimulation (tsES) to the intact spinal cord poststroke may modulate the cortico-muscular control in stroke survivors with diverse lesions in the brain. This work aimed to investigate the immediate effects of tsES on the cortico-muscular descending patterns during voluntary upper extremity (UE) muscle contractions by analyzing cortico-muscular coherence (CMCoh) and electromyography (EMG) in people with chronic stroke.

Methods: Twelve chronic stroke participants were recruited to perform wrist-hand extension and flexion tasks at submaximal levels of voluntary contraction for the corresponding agonist flexors and extensors. During the tasks, the tsES was delivered to the cervical spinal cord with rectangular biphasic pulses. Electroencephalography (EEG) data were collected from the sensorimotor cortex, and the EMG data were recorded from both distal and proximal UE muscles. The CMCoh, laterality index (LI) of the peak CMCoh, and EMG activation level parameters under both non-tsES and tsES conditions were compared to evaluate the immediate effects of tsES on the cortico-muscular descending pathway.

Results: The CMCoh and LI of peak CMCoh in the agonist distal muscles showed significant increases (p < 0.05) during the wrist-hand extension and flexion tasks with the application of tsES. The EMG activation levels of the antagonist distal muscle during wrist-hand extension were significantly decreased (p < 0.05) with tsES. Additionally, the proximal UE muscles exhibited significant decreases (p < 0.05) in peak CMCoh and EMG activation levels by applying tsES. There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in LI of peak CMCoh of proximal UE muscles during tsES.

Conclusion: The cervical spinal cord neuromodulation via tsES enhanced the residual descending excitatory control, activated the local inhibitory circuits within the spinal cord, and reduced the cortical and proximal muscular compensatory effects. These results suggested the potential of tsES as a supplementary input for improving UE motor functions in stroke rehabilitation.
Revisiting methotrexate and phototrexate Zinc15 library-based derivatives using deep learning in-silico drug design approach
Authors: Siddique Farhan , Anwaar Ahmar , Bashir Maryam , Nadeem Sumaira , Rawat Ravi , Eyupoglu Volkan , Afzal Samina , Bibi Mehvish , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Bourhia Mohammed
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Cancer is the second most prevalent cause of mortality in the world, despite the availability of several medications for cancer treatment. Therefore, the cancer research community emphasized on computational techniques to speed up the discovery of novel anticancer drugs.

Methods: In the current study, QSAR-based virtual screening was performed on the Zinc15 compound library (271 derivatives of methotrexate (MTX) and phototrexate (PTX)) to predict their inhibitory activity against dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), a potential anticancer drug target. The deep learning-based ADMET parameters were employed to generate a 2D QSAR model using the multiple linear regression (MPL) methods with Leave-one-out cross-validated (LOO-CV) Q2 and correlation coefficient R2 values as high as 0.77 and 0.81, respectively.

Results: From the QSAR model and virtual screening analysis, the top hits (09, 27, 41, 68, 74, 85, 99, 180) exhibited pIC50 ranging from 5.85 to 7.20 with a minimum binding score of -11.6 to -11.0 kcal/mol and were subjected to further investigation. The ADMET attributes using the message-passing neural network (MPNN) model demonstrated the potential of selected hits as an oral medication based on lipophilic profile Log P (0.19-2.69) and bioavailability (76.30% to 78.46%). The clinical toxicity score was 31.24% to 35.30%, with the least toxicity score (8.30%) observed with compound 180. The DFT calculations were carried out to determine the stability, physicochemical parameters and chemical reactivity of selected compounds. The docking results were further validated by 100 ns molecular dynamic simulation analysis.

Conclusion: The promising lead compounds found endorsed compared to standard reference drugs MTX and PTX that are best for anticancer activity and can lead to novel therapies after experimental validations. Furthermore, it is suggested to unveil the inhibitory potential of identified hits via in-vitro and in-vivo approaches.
Addressing inequities and meeting needs of Indigenous communities in floodplain management
Authors: Zimmerman Olivia , Eison Tanya , Carey Robert , Levin Phillip S.
Published: March 2024

Anthropogenic impacts have altered and degraded global ecosystems. Integrated resource management offers an important solution to enhance collaboration, holistic thinking, and equity by considering diverse perspectives in decision making. In Washington State, Floodplains by Design (FbD) is a floodplain management and habitat restoration program that emphasizes bringing together diverse stakeholders and supporting conversations between local, state, and Tribal governments while enhancing environmental justice in the region. Marginalized communities continue to be disproportionately impacted by environmental disturbances. Our project interviewed Tribal natural resource managers to assess the degree to which they felt FbD was supporting their community’s needs. Our research asked three questions: (1) What Tribal needs and inequities associated with floodplains are identified by Tribal natural resource managers? (2) Are these needs and inequities being addressed by FbD? and (3) How can FbD better address these needs and inequities moving forward? We found that while the integrated approach of FbD was driving solutions in some realms, there are ways in which the program could better support needs and address inequities in Tribal communities. Specifically, we found that conventional responses to environmental challenges are rooted in modernist paradigms that have created persistent dualities, including that of human-nature and human-nonhuman. Such a paradigm is in conflict with wellbeing and self-determination of Tribal cultures that are deeply connected to Pacific salmon. In closing, we provide insights on these mechanisms and offer solutions moving forward.
Fake news and disinformation in Southeast Asia: how should ASEAN respond?
Authors: Putra Bama Andika
Published: March 2024

Southeast Asian nations are vulnerable to fake news and disinformation due to the lack of digital literacy, growing dependence upon online platforms, and the non-democratic nature of ASEAN member states. ASEAN has agreed in the past years to decide, at the normative level, the importance of countering fake news and disinformation. However, it lacks a collective, regional approach. It is suggested that ASEAN define what fake news and disinformation consist of, elevation to a non-traditional security threat, and establishment of an ASEAN-centered fast-checking network as feasible policy options to counter fake news and disinformation in the region. In countering this sensitive issue, special attention is needed to consider ASEAN’s philosophical foundations of non-interference, non-intervention, and respect for sovereignty, which allows state practices of surveillance, legal prosecutions, firewalls, and censorships to be maintained.
Remediation of heavy metals by native plant species grown in Iran’s richest gold mine and study of plants’ pollution tolerance strategies
Authors: Torbati Samaneh , Esmailbegi Kermani Shokouh , Abedini Ali
Published: March 2024

Mining is defined as an environmentally hazardous activity that releases metals and other elements to the environment. Bioremediation is a natural and sustainable technique for harnessing the potential of microorganisms and plants to remove, degrade, or stabilize pollutants from contaminated sites and enable cleanup and restoration of the environment. In the present study, following the investigation of pollution of heavy metals in soil samples collected from the Zarshuran mining area, the role of twenty native plant species in the bioaccumulation of heavy metals was evaluated. After preparation of soil and plant samples, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) was used to determine the concentrations of elements in the soil and plant samples. It was confirmed that the soil samples were highly contaminated by silver (Ag), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and antimony (Sb). High amounts of Pb and Zn were accumulated in Eryngium billardieri and Astragalus rostratus. Further, these two plant species could uptake, transport, and accumulate Ag in their aerial parts and the enrichment coefficient of their shoots was more than 1. Scorzonera latifolia also had good potential to stabilise Ag, Zn, and Pb in its root. As a result, E. billardieri, A. rostratus, and S. latifolia may be suitable candidate species to clean heavy metals from soils in contaminated sites. Overall, augmentation of superoxide dismutase activity and the amounts of total phenols and flavonoids in different parts of E. billardieri and A. rostratus confirmed the induction of antioxidant defense systems in the plants (compared to the control plants) and an attempt by the plants to tolerate heavy metal pollution.
Examination of primary school teachers’ attitudes and views towards multicultural education
Authors: Erkanlı Aysel , Batman Kemal Akkan , Kaptanoğlu Can
Published: March 2024

Just like in many countries around the world, there is a multicultural society in Northern Cyprus. As migrations to the island continue to increase, the phenomenon of multiculturalism has begun to be discussed in the education system. This research was conducted with the aim of determining the attitudes and views of primary school teachers in Northern Cyprus towards multicultural education. Mixed methods strategy was used in this research. In the research, the concurrent triangulation strategy from mixed methods strategies was used. Data collection tools the Teacher Multicultural Education Attitude Scale and developed interview form were used. In the quantitative part of the research, the Teacher Multiculturalism Attitude Scale was applied to 111 randomly selected teachers. According to the survey results, no significant difference was detected depending on the variables of gender, nationality, professional seniority, branch, graduation degree and graduated school. However, significant differences were identified in the multiculturalism scores age and based on the region where the teachers were employed. In the qualitative part of the research, interviews were conducted with 12 participant teachers. According to the qualitative findings, teachers perceived multiculturalism as diversity in terms of nationality, ethnic background, language, and religion. Further, teachers indicated that education in Northern Cyprus does not cater to a multicultural structure, leading to various problems experienced by students and parents, primarily related to communication. The teachers attributed this situation to the unpreparedness of the Ministry of Education (MEB) and the reluctance to change education policies due to an exclusive society. Subsequently, teachers expressed that they did not consider themselves competent in multicultural education and expressed a willingness to participate in in-service training programs if provided.
Tumor growth manifested in two-fifths of low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma patients during active surveillance: data from a tertiary center in China
Authors: Le Kehao , Jin Lei , Zhong Fangfang , Huang Xiaojuan , Zhou Liang , Zhou Jiamin , Xie Lei
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To assess tumor growth using tumor doubling rate (TDR) during active surveillance (AS) in China.

Methods

Between January 2016 and June 2020, a total of 219 patients with low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) (aged 23-75 years) were consecutively enrolled in the AS program.

Results

Four sections of TDR, >0.5, 0.1~0.5, -0.1~0.1 and <-0.1, corresponded with four categories of tumor volume kinetics: rapid growth, slow growth, stable, and decreased size. We found that 10.5% of PTMCs exhibited rapid growth, 33.33% exhibited slow growth, 26.48% were stable, and 29.68% decreased in size. Tumor growth was associated with two factors: age and volume of PTMC at diagnosis. 85.72% of elderly patients (≥ 61 years old) had tumors that remained stable or even shrank and rapidly growing tumors were not found in them. When the volume was small (≤14.13 mm3), the proportion of rapid growth was high (41.67%), whereas when the volume was large (> 179.5 mm3), the proportion of non-growth was 68.75%.

Conclusion

TDR may be a better metric for evaluating tumor growth in observational PTMCs. A certain proportion of PTMCs grow during the period of AS and tumor growth was associated with age and volume of PTMC at initial diagnosis. Therefore, how to block tumor growth during the AS period, especially for young patients and patients with early-stage PTMC (size ≤ 5 mm), will be a new challenge.
Clouds and plant ecophysiology: missing links for understanding climate change impacts
Authors: Hughes Nicole M. , Sanchez Adriana , Berry Z. Carter , Smith William K.
Published: March 2024

Observations and models indicate that human activity is altering cloud patterns on a global scale. Clouds impact incident visible and infrared radiation during both day and night, driving daily and seasonal variability in plant temperatures—a fundamental driver of all physiological processes. To understand the impacts of changing cloud patterns on essential plant-based processes such as carbon sequestration and food production, changes in local cloud regimes must be linked, via ecophysiology, with affected plant systems. This review provides a comprehensive treatment of cloud effects (apart from precipitation) on fundamental ecophysiological processes that serve as the basis of plant growth and reproduction. The radiative effects of major cloud types (cumulus, stratus, cirrus) are differentiated, as well as their relative impacts on plant microclimate and physiology. Cloud regimes of major climate zones (tropical, subtropical, temperate, polar) are superimposed over recent changes in cloud cover and primary productivity. The most robust trends in changing global cloud patterns include: (i) the tropical rain belt (comprised mostly of deep convective clouds) is narrowing, shifting latitudinally, and strengthening, corresponding with shorter but more intense rainy seasons, increased clouds and precipitation in some parts of the tropics, and decreases in others; (ii) tropical cyclones are increasing in intensity and migrating poleward; (iii) subtropical dry zones are expanding, resulting in fewer clouds and drier conditions at these latitudes; (iv) summer mid-latitude storm tracks are weakening and migrating poleward, and clouds in temperate regions are decreasing; and (v) clouds over the Arctic are increasing. A reduction in coastal fog and low clouds (including those associated with montane cloud forests) have also been observed, although these trends can be partially attributed to local patterns of deforestation, urbanization, and/or reductions in aerosols associated with clean air initiatives. We conclude by highlighting gaps in the cloud-ecophysiology literature in order to encourage future research in this under-studied area.
Prevalence and duration of SARS-CoV-2 fecal shedding in breastfeeding dyads following maternal COVID-19 diagnosis
Authors: Pace Ryan M. , King-Nakaoka Elana A. , Morse Andrew G. , Pascoe Kelsey J. , Winquist Anna , Caffé Beatrice , Navarrete Alexandra D. , Lackey Kimberly A. , Pace Christina D.W. , Fehrenkamp Bethaney D. , Smith Caroline B. , Martin Melanie A. , Barbosa-Leiker Celestina , Ley Sylvia H. , McGuire Mark A. , Meehan Courtney L. , Williams Janet E. , McGuire Michelle K.
Published: March 2024

Background

There is a paucity of data on the presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in feces of lactating women with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and their breastfed infants as well as associations between fecal shedding and symptomatology.

Objective

We examined whether and to what extent SARS-CoV-2 is detectable in the feces of lactating women and their breastfed infants following maternal COVID-19 diagnosis.

Methods

This was a longitudinal study carried out from April 2020 to December 2021 involving 57 breastfeeding maternal-infant dyads: 33 dyads were enrolled within 7 d of maternal COVID-19 diagnosis, and 24 healthy dyads served as controls. Maternal/infant fecal samples were collected by participants, and surveys were administered via telephone over an 8-wk period. Feces were analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 RNA.

Results

Signs/symptoms related to ears, eyes, nose, and throat (EENT); general fatigue/malaise; and cardiopulmonary signs/symptoms were commonly reported among mothers with COVID-19. In infants of mothers with COVID-19, EENT, immunologic, and cardiopulmonary signs/symptoms were most common, but prevalence did not differ from that of infants of control mothers. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in feces of 7 (25%) women with COVID-19 and 10 (30%) of their infants. Duration of fecal shedding ranged from 1-4 wk for both mothers and infants. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was sparsely detected in feces of healthy dyads, with only one mother’s and two infants’ fecal samples testing positive. There was no relationship between frequencies of maternal and infant SARS-CoV-2 fecal shedding (P=0.36), although presence of maternal or infant fever was related to increased likelihood (7-9 times greater, P≤0.04) of fecal shedding in infants of mothers with COVID-19.
Identification of B cell subsets based on antigen receptor sequences using deep learning
Authors: Lee Hyunho , Shin Kyoungseob , Lee Yongju , Lee Soobin , Lee Seungyoun , Lee Eunjae , Kim Seung Woo , Shin Ha Young , Kim Jong Hoon , Chung Junho , Kwon Sunghoon
Published: March 2024

B cell receptors (BCRs) denote antigen specificity, while corresponding cell subsets indicate B cell functionality. Since each B cell uniquely encodes this combination, physical isolation and subsequent processing of individual B cells become indispensable to identify both attributes. However, this approach accompanies high costs and inevitable information loss, hindering high-throughput investigation of B cell populations. Here, we present BCR-SORT, a deep learning model that predicts cell subsets from their corresponding BCR sequences by leveraging B cell activation and maturation signatures encoded within BCR sequences. Subsequently, BCR-SORT is demonstrated to improve reconstruction of BCR phylogenetic trees, and reproduce results consistent with those verified using physical isolation-based methods or prior knowledge. Notably, when applied to BCR sequences from COVID-19 vaccine recipients, it revealed inter-individual heterogeneity of evolutionary trajectories towards Omicron-binding memory B cells. Overall, BCR-SORT offers great potential to improve our understanding of B cell responses.
Advancements in γδT cell engineering: paving the way for enhanced cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Yuan Megan , Wang Wenjun , Hawes Isobel , Han Junwen , Yao Zhenyu , Bertaina Alice
Published: March 2024

Comprising only 1-10% of the circulating T cell population, γδT cells play a pivotal role in cancer immunotherapy due to their unique amalgamation of innate and adaptive immune features. These cells can secrete cytokines, including interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and can directly eliminate tumor cells through mechanisms like Fas/FasL and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Unlike conventional αβT cells, γδT cells can target a wide variety of cancer cells independently of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) presentation and function as antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Their ability of recognizing antigens in a non-MHC restricted manner makes them an ideal candidate for allogeneic immunotherapy. Additionally, γδT cells exhibit specific tissue tropism, and rapid responsiveness upon reaching cellular targets, indicating a high level of cellular precision and adaptability. Despite these capabilities, the therapeutic potential of γδT cells has been hindered by some limitations, including their restricted abundance, unsatisfactory expansion, limited persistence, and complex biology and plasticity. To address these issues, gene-engineering strategies like the use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T therapy, T cell receptor (TCR) gene transfer, and the combination with γδT cell engagers are being explored. This review will outline the progress in various engineering strategies, discuss their implications and challenges that lie ahead, and the future directions for engineered γδT cells in both monotherapy and combination immunotherapy.
Iron metabolism disorder and multiple sclerosis: a comprehensive analysis
Authors: Tang Chao , Yang Jiaxin , Zhu Chaomin , Ding Yaqi , Yang Sushuang , Xu Bingyang , He Dian
Published: March 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Currently, the pathological mechanisms of MS are not fully understood, but research has suggested that iron metabolism disorder may be associated with the onset and clinical manifestations of MS.

Methods and materials

The study utilized publicly available databases and bioinformatics techniques for gene expression data analysis, including differential expression analysis, weighted correlation network analysis, gene enrichment analysis, and construction of logistic regression models. Subsequently, Mendelian randomization was used to assess the causal relationship between different iron metabolism markers and MS.

Results

This study identified IREB2, LAMP2, ISCU, ATP6V1G1, ATP13A2, and SKP1 as genes associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) and iron metabolism, establishing their multi-gene diagnostic value for MS with an AUC of 0.83. Additionally, Mendelian randomization analysis revealed a potential causal relationship between transferrin saturation and MS (p=2.22E-02; OR 95%CI=0.86 (0.75, 0.98)), as well as serum transferrin and MS (p=2.18E-04; OR 95%CI=1.22 (1.10, 1.36)).

Conclusion

This study comprehensively explored the relationship between iron metabolism and MS through integrated bioinformatics analysis and Mendelian randomization methods. The findings provide important insights for further research into the role of iron metabolism disorder in the pathogenesis of MS and offer crucial theoretical support for the treatment of MS.
Development of The Lupus Clinical Trials Enrollment Decision Aid: a pilot study
Authors: Khalili Leila , Kukafka Rita , Weiner Julia , Inzerillo Sean , Tang Wei , Geraldino-Pardilla Laura , Schmidt Nancyanne , Gartshteyn Yevgeniyia , Alvarez Kathleen , Askanase Anca
Published: March 2024

Introduction

In this pilot study, we describe the development of a patient-centered Decision Aid (DA) for participation of SLE clinical trials called “The Lupus Clinical Trials Enrollment DA”.

Methods

A draft DA was designed by a development working group using a collaborative, iterative process using the International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) guidelines. The approved draft DA was then pilot tested and refined using semi structured interview with 10 lupus providers and 12 SLE patients. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Interviews/surveys were conducted until thematic saturation was achieved. Responses on usefulness were accumulated, and mean usefulness scores were calculated. Feedback from the semi-structured interviews were categorized into several themes as outlined in the results section.

Results

The definition of treatments, side effects of each option, and expected improvement from each option was outlined. 90% of providers and 91.7% of patients reported that the definition of SOC treatment was clear. Additionally, the expected improvement for SOC (90% of providers, 100% of patients), clinical trial drug (70%, 91.6%), and placebo (70%, 100%) were noted to be clear. Side effects of SOC (80%, 100%), clinical trial drug treatment (80%, 100%), placebo (90%, 100%), were also noted to be clear. 100% of providers and patients thought that the figure outlining pros/cons of participating in clinical trials was appropriate. The mean usefulness scores for the DA were 4.45/5 for providers and 4.67/5 for patients.

Discussion

These data demonstrate that both patients and providers confirm that the newly developed The Lupus Clinical Trials Enrollment DA is useful and easy to use. Qualitative feedback from providers demonstrated concern that aspects of the DA, such as expected improvement and side effects might be unclear to patients; however, patients did not express the same concern in either the quantitative or qualitative feedback.
Stereo-video landers can rapidly assess marine fish diversity and community assemblages
Authors: Matthews Kinsey E. , Fields Ryan T. , Cieri Kathleen P. , Mohay Jacklyn L. , Gleason Mary G. , Starr Richard M.
Published: March 2024

Climate change and anthropogenic stressors affect the distribution, abundance, and diversity of fish communities across the world. To understand rapidly changing biotic communities, resource managers need a method to quickly and efficiently document temporal and spatial changes in community assemblages across various spatial scales. In this study, we describe the use of new video lander tools to survey fish communities in rocky marine habitats on the continental shelf and slope in California, USA. We evaluate how fish diversity metrics determined by video surveys vary among geographically distinct areas. Our results demonstrate that species diversity, evenness, and richness vary spatially across the coast. Furthermore, community assemblages differ at both broad and fine spatial scales because of differences among habitats. Length frequencies and densities of species in this study were similar to those reported in previous studies. As community assemblages and biodiversity metrics shift in response to changing stressors, it is increasingly important to develop tools and methodologies to detect and rapidly monitor these changes.
An endometrial receptivity scoring system evaluated by ultrasonography in patients undergoing frozen–thawed embryo transfer: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ouyang Yan , Peng Yangqin , Mao Yuyao , Zheng Mingxiang , Gong Fei , Li Yuan , Li Xihong
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Ultrasound has become a routine method for endometrial receptivity (ER) evaluation. However, there is controversy over the independent evaluation values of various ultrasound indicators. Some researchers have designed multi-indicator prediction systems, but their prediction values are uneven. To further our understanding of ER, we conducted this prospective cohort study to estimate ER noninvasively and effectively.

Methods

Women who underwent the first frozen–thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycle from April 2019 to July 2021 were included in the study. On the day of transfer, transvaginal three-dimensional ultrasound examination was performed to evaluate ER, including endometrial thickness, morphology, volume, movement, blood flow and flow index. The clinical pregnancy rate was the primary outcome. Based on whether clinical pregnancy was achieved, enrolled patients were divided into pregnant and nonpregnant groups.

Results

This study analyzed 197 FET patients (139 pregnancies in total, 70.5%). The protective factors for clinical pregnancy included primary infertility [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.98; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01–3.882; p = 0.047] and more frequent endometrial peristalsis (aOR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.028–1.722; p = 0.03). Scores of 1–2 were assigned according to the relationship between different ultrasound indicators and the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR). The ER score of the patient was the sum of the scores of the 6 items. The ER score of the pregnant group was significantly higher than that of the nonpregnant group (7.40 ± 1.73 vs. 6.33 ± 1.99, p = 0.001). The CPR increased with an increasing ER score. The CPR in the ER < 6 group was significantly lower than that in the ER >6 group (45.5% vs. 75.6%, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

A noninvasive ultrasound scoring system for ER was proposed. This system may provide a non-invasive guidance perspective, in conjunction with invasive assessments currently used in clinical practice, to achieve more effective embryo transfer.
Resolving uncertainty on the fly: modeling adaptive driving behavior as active inference
Authors: Engström Johan , Wei Ran , McDonald Anthony D. , Garcia Alfredo , O'Kelly Matthew , Johnson Leif
Published: March 2024

Understanding adaptive human driving behavior, in particular how drivers manage uncertainty, is of key importance for developing simulated human driver models that can be used in the evaluation and development of autonomous vehicles. However, existing traffic psychology models of adaptive driving behavior either lack computational rigor or only address specific scenarios and/or behavioral phenomena. While models developed in the fields of machine learning and robotics can effectively learn adaptive driving behavior from data, due to their black box nature, they offer little or no explanation of the mechanisms underlying the adaptive behavior. Thus, generalizable, interpretable, computational models of adaptive human driving behavior are still rare. This paper proposes such a model based on active inference, a behavioral modeling framework originating in computational neuroscience. The model offers a principled solution to how humans trade progress against caution through policy selection based on the single mandate to minimize expected free energy. This casts goal-seeking and information-seeking (uncertainty-resolving) behavior under a single objective function, allowing the model to seamlessly resolve uncertainty as a means to obtain its goals. We apply the model in two apparently disparate driving scenarios that require managing uncertainty, (1) driving past an occluding object and (2) visual time-sharing between driving and a secondary task, and show how human-like adaptive driving behavior emerges from the single principle of expected free energy minimization.
Novel deep learning framework for detection of epileptic seizures using EEG signals
Authors: Mallick Sayani , Baths Veeky
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, often leading to recurrent seizures. With 50 million people worldwide affected by epilepsy, there is a pressing need for efficient and accurate methods to detect and diagnose seizures. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals have emerged as a valuable tool in detecting epilepsy and other neurological disorders. Traditionally, the process of analyzing EEG signals for seizure detection has relied on manual inspection by experts, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and susceptible to human error. To address these limitations, researchers have turned to machine learning and deep learning techniques to automate the seizure detection process.

Methods

In this work, we propose a novel method for epileptic seizure detection, leveraging the power of 1-D Convolutional layers in combination with Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) and Average pooling Layer as a single unit. This unit is repeatedly used in the proposed model to extract the features. The features are then passed to the Dense layers to predict the class of the EEG waveform. The performance of the proposed model is verified on the Bonn dataset. To assess the robustness and generalizability of our proposed architecture, we employ five-fold cross-validation. By dividing the dataset into five subsets and iteratively training and testing the model on different combinations of these subsets, we obtain robust performance measures, including accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity.

Results

Our proposed model achieves an accuracy of 99–100% for binary classifications into seizure and normal waveforms, 97.2%–99.2% accuracy for classifications into normal-interictal-seizure waveforms, 96.2%–98.4% accuracy for four class classification and accuracy of 95.81%–98% for five class classification.

Discussion

Our proposed models have achieved significant improvements in the performance metrics for the binary classifications and multiclass classifications. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed architecture in accurately detecting epileptic seizures from EEG signals by using EEG signals of varying lengths. The results indicate its potential as a reliable and efficient tool for automated seizure detection, paving the way for improved diagnosis and management of epilepsy.
Neural correlates of breath work, mental imagery of yoga postures, and meditation in yoga practitioners: a functional near-infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Li Xiawen , Zhou Yu , Zhang Chenping , Wang Hongbiao , Wang Xiaochun
Published: March 2024

Objective

Previous research has shown numerous health benefits of yoga, a multicomponent physical and mental activity. The three important aspects of both traditional and modern yoga are breath work, postures, and meditation. However, the neural mechanisms associated with these three aspects of yoga remain largely unknown. The present study investigated the neural underpinnings associated with each of these three yoga components in long- and short-term yoga practitioners to clarify the neural advantages of yoga experience, aiming to provide a more comprehensive understanding of yoga’s health-promoting effects.

Methods

Participants were 40 Chinese women, 20 with a long-term yoga practice and 20 with a short-term yoga practice. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy was conducted while participants performed abdominal breathing, mental imagery of yoga postures, and mindfulness meditation. The oxygenated hemoglobin concentrations activated in the brain during these three tasks were used to assess the neural responses to the different aspects of yoga practice. The self-reported mastery of each yoga posture was used to assess the advantages of practicing yoga postures.

Results

Blood oxygen levels in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex during breath work were significantly higher in long-term yoga practitioners than in short-term yoga practitioners. In the mental imagery of yoga postures task, self-reported data showed that long-term yoga practitioners had better mastery than short-term practitioners. Long-term yoga practitioners demonstrated lower activation in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, with lower blood oxygen levels associated with performing this task, than short-term yoga practitioners. In the mindfulness meditation task, blood oxygen levels in the orbitofrontal cortex and the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex were significantly higher in long-term yoga practitioners than in short-term yoga practitioners.

Conclusion

The three core yoga components, namely, yogic breathing, postures, and meditation, showed differences and similarities in the activation levels of the prefrontal cortex. Long-term practice of each component led to the neural benefits of efficient activation in the prefrontal cortex, especially in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex.
Caregiver perceptions of a pediatric produce prescription program during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Li Zhongyu , Zhang Fang Fang , Cash Sean B. , Hager Kurt , Trevino Leo , Folta Sara C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Produce prescription programs are rapidly expanding as a type of Food is Medicine intervention with prospects for mitigating food insecurity and reducing diet-related health disparities. Gaining insight into participant perspectives on program logistics and perceived impacts is crucial to program success and improvements.

Methods

Between May and June 2021, we conducted individual and small group interviews with 23 caregivers with children aged 1–5 years who participated in a produce prescription program from 2020 to 2021 in Texas, U.S. They were provided with a gift card to a major national grocery retailer to purchase fresh produce. The card was reloaded $60 monthly for 8 months with automatic roll-over of unused funds to the next month. Participants also received nutrition education in the form of two videos. A deductive analysis approach was employed, and NVivo qualitative data analysis software was used to perform coding and to assist with subsequent analyses.

Results

All 23 participants were female, with an average age of 37.5 years, and the majority identified as Hispanic/Latino (83%). About 43% of the families had three or more children. Six themes were generated from interviews. Three of these themes were related to program logistics: (1) ease of program use; (2) participant satisfaction with the incentive; and (3) desire for additional store options. The remaining main themes pertained to program impact: (1) the enhanced ability to purchase produce; (2) the usefulness of the nutrition education; and (3) persistent challenges encountered when preparing the produce for picky eaters and young children.

Conclusion

A pediatric produce prescription program was perceived as logistically easy and a helpful source of financial support for accessing fresh produce. Program features such as card-based incentive system and partnership with major grocery retailer were favored by participants. For future program design, it may be beneficial to consider collaborating with multiple grocery outlets and enhancing the intensity and targeting of nutrition education.