bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Nomogram predicting the overall survival of patients with pancreatic cancer treated with radiotherapy: a study based on the SEER database and a Chinese cohort
Authors: Dong Xiaotao , Wang Kunlun , Yang Hui , Cheng Ruilan , Li Yan , Hou Yanqi , Chang Jiali , Yuan Ling
Published: October 2023

Objective

Patients with pancreatic cancer (PC) have a poor prognosis. Radiotherapy (RT) is a standard palliative treatment in clinical practice, and there is no effective clinical prediction model to predict the prognosis of PC patients receiving radiotherapy. This study aimed to analyze PC’s clinical characteristics, find the factors affecting PC patients’ prognosis, and construct a visual Nomogram to predict overall survival (OS).

Methods

SEER*Stat software was used to collect clinical data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database of 3570 patients treated with RT. At the same time, the relevant clinical data of 115 patients were collected from the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University. The SEER database data were randomly divided into the training and internal validation cohorts in a 7:3 ratio, with all patients at The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University as the external validation cohort. The lasso regression was used to screen the relevant variables. All non-zero variables were included in the multivariate analysis. Multivariate Cox proportional risk regression analysis was used to determine the independent prognostic factors. The Kaplan-Meier(K-M) method was used to plot the survival curves for different treatments (surgery, RT, chemotherapy, and combination therapy) and calculate the median OS. The Nomogram was constructed to predict the survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years, and the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were plotted with the calculated curves. Calculate the area under the curve (AUC), the Bootstrap method was used to plot the calibration curve, and the clinical efficacy of the prediction model was evaluated using decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

The median OS was 25.0, 18.0, 11.0, and 4.0 months in the surgery combined with chemoradiotherapy (SCRT), surgery combined with radiotherapy, chemoradiotherapy (CRT), and RT alone cohorts, respectively. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that age, N stage, M stage, chemotherapy, surgery, lymph node surgery, and Grade were independent prognostic factors for patients. Nomogram models were constructed to predict patients’ OS. 1-, 3-, and 5-year Time-dependent ROC curves were plotted, and AUC values were calculated. The results suggested that the AUCs were 0.77, 0.79, and 0.79 for the training cohort, 0.79, 0.82, and 0.81 for the internal validation cohort, and 0.73, 0.93, and 0.88 for the external validation cohort. The calibration curves Show that the model prediction probability is in high agreement with the actual observation probability, and the DCA curve shows a high net return.

Conclusion

SCRT significantly improves the OS of PC patients. We developed and validated a Nomogram to predict the OS of PC patients receiving RT.
Two-stage robust optimal capacity configuration of a wind, photovoltaic, hydropower, and pumped storage hybrid energy system
Authors: Zhou Hong , Lu Liang , Shen Li , Zhang Peng , Wen YiYu , Jiang Hongyu , Yang Shiyou
Published: October 2023

The hybrid energy system of hydro-powers, pumped storages and renewable energies has become a new topic direction in modern power system developments. Consequently, it is essential to realize a rational and efficient allocation of different energy source capacities. Nevertheless, there is still a gap between the available studies and the requirement for further hybrid energy system development. This paper focuses on the optimal capacity configuration of a wind, photovoltaic, hydropower, and pumped storage power system. In this direction, a bi-level programming model for the optimal capacity configuration of wind, photovoltaic, hydropower, pumped storage power system is derived. To model the operating mode of a pumped storage power station, two 0-1 variables are introduced. To handle the nonlinear and nonconvex lower level programing problem caused by the two 0-1 variables, it is proposed that the 0-1 variables are treated as some uncertain parameters. Also, by treating the 0-1 variables as some uncertain parameters, a two-stage robust optimization problem to decompose the original bi-level programing one into a master problem and a subproblem is finally introduced. The Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) conditions are then applied to simplify and linearize the min-max problem and nonlinear terms in the master problem. This results in both the master problem and the subproblem being formulated as mixed integer linear programming (MILP) problems. By utilizing the powerful Column-and-Constraint Generation (C&CG) algorithm, the two-stage robust optimization model is decomposed into an iterative procedure of solving the master problem and the subproblem sequentially. This approach eliminates the need for intricate optimization algorithms as commonly used in existing bi-level planning problems in hybrid energy systems. Finally, the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed model is verified by the numerical results on a case study.
Research on wear characteristics of U-shaped elbows based on CFD-DEM coupling
Authors: Chang Hao , Ji Guangchao , Yu Dehui , Peng Guangjie , Hong Shiming , Du Jialin
Published: October 2023

The C++ programming language is employed to improve the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)- Discrete Element Method (DEM) coupling interface in this paper, the accuracy of solid-liquid two-phase flow numerical model are validated through experiments. Subsequently, the wear characteristics of the U-shaped elbows under different elbows spacing, bending diameter ratio, particle volume concentration, and particle size are investigated. The research results indicate that as the spacing between bends is increased, the phenomenon of particle sedimentation is intensified, and the maximum collision angle in elbow 2 is increased. The location of the maximum collision angle is closer to the outlet of elbow 2. However, both the collision frequency and wear rate are reduced due to the decrease in the number of particles. Smoother particle flow and a reduction in the collision angle and wear rate of particles on both bends are achieved by increasing the bend ratio. During the variation of the particle volume fraction from 0.5% to 7%, the increase in collision frequency and wear rate of both bends is slowed down. A greater decrease is observed in elbow 2, but the “shielding effect” is not observed. Furthermore, at low volume fractions, kinetic energy is lost by particles as they flow through elbow 1, resulting in a lower average wear rate in elbow 2 compared to elbow 1. Conversely, at high volume fractions, the opposite effect occurs. Finally, when keeping the particle volume fraction constant, an increase in the particle size leads to a smaller wear area in both bends. The wear rate in elbow 1 increases at a slower rate, while the wear rate in elbow 2 exhibits an initial increase followed by a decrease trend.
Assessing the attraction of narrow-spectrum and broad-spectrum artificial light to nocturnal insects: patterns and predictive models
Authors: Hao Qingli , Liu Gang , Wang Lixiong , Xin Pengyuan , Yu Juan , Yu Zejun , Chen Xiaochao
Published: October 2023

The significant ecological risks posed by artificial light at night (ALAN) are rapidly increasing globally. The rapid development of narrow-spectrum light-emitting diodes (LEDs) presents various challenges for reducing fatal attraction to ALAN and associated ecological risks. However, the potential risks and variations in the fatal attraction have not been precisely measured and assessed. Insects are ecological indicator species and photosensitive animals that are often fatally attracted to ALAN. In this paper, we conduct phototaxis experiments in Tianjin, China. We explored insect phototactic behavior and rhythms by comparing the effects of different time periods and spectra on the number of phototactic insects using UV light as a baseline. The spectra include seven narrow-spectrum lights with different peak wavelengths and two broad-spectrum lights with different color temperatures. In general, shorter wavelength light was more attractive: short-wave blue light (447 nm and 478 nm) was the most attractive, followed by medium-wave green light (500 nm and 519 nm) and long-wave red light (627 nm, 660 nm, and 740 nm). Insects were more attracted to 4,500 K LEDs than 3,000 K LEDs, but the difference in attraction between 4,500 K and 3,000 K LEDs was not significant. For eco-risk periods, that is, the peak hours of the fatal attraction of insects to ALAN in the field, LEDs attract insects at the fastest rate from 20:00 to 21:30 (from 1.5 hours to 3 hours after sunset). The phototactic rate curves of insect orders differed among different spectral LEDs. We proposed a method to predict the relative attractiveness of LEDs to insects and orders by calculating the relative attraction coefficient (Pi) of each narrow-spectrum LED and assigning Pi as a coefficient to the spectral irradiance percentage of the corresponding band of the LEDs to be predicted. The model-calculated relative attraction was highly significantly correlated with both the experimentally obtained attraction and the spectral response of insect vision. The results demonstrate that the attractiveness of broad-spectrum LEDs to insects can be altered, evaluated, and predicted through narrow-spectrum LEDs. Our findings will aid the development of ecological light sources, ecological conservation, and improvements in urban light ecology.
Digging out the biology properties of tRNA-derived small RNA from black hole
Authors: Shi Hengmei , Xie Jiaheng , Pei Shengbin , He Danni , Hou Huyang , Xu Shipeng , Fu Ziyi , Shi Xiaoyan
Published: October 2023

An unique subclass of functional non-coding RNAs generated by transfer RNA (tRNA) under stress circumstances is known as tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA). tsRNAs can be divided into tRNA halves and tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) based on the different cleavage sites. Like microRNAs, tsRNAs can attach to Argonaute (AGO) proteins to target downstream mRNA in a base pairing manner, which plays a role in rRNA processing, gene silencing, protein expression and viral infection. Notably, tsRNAs can also directly bind to protein and exhibit functions in transcription, protein modification, gene expression, protein stabilization, and signaling pathways. tsRNAs can control the expression of tumor suppressor genes and participate in the initiation of cancer. It can also mediate the progression of diseases by regulating cell viability, migration ability, inflammatory factor content and autophagy ability. Precision medicine targeting tsRNAs and drug therapy of plant-derived tsRNAs are expected to be used in clinical practice. In addition, liquid biopsy technology based on tsRNAs indicates a new direction for the non-invasive diagnosis of diseases.
Post-natal care: a vital chance to save mothers and infants! Exploring barriers and factors associated with it: a mixed study
Authors: Dibaba Degefa Bekem , Feyisa Gizu Tola , Dinagde Dagne Deresa , Kitil Gemeda Wakgari , Walle Agmasie Damtew
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The most effective maternal health intervention for enhancing mother and baby survival is postnatal care, yet it is also the most neglected service in Ethiopia. Less is known about postnatal care despite earlier studies concentrating on pregnancy and delivery service utilization. Postnatal care is the subject of few national and local area studies. Therefore this research aims to evaluate postnatal care utilization and barriers and associated characteristics among women in Ilubabor Zone and Buno Bedele Zone.

Methods

A mixed-methods study involving women who visited immunization clinics was conducted in Southwest Ethiopia. For the quantitative part, a cross-sectional survey was conducted between June 12 and July 12, 2022. The data collected through interviews was analyzed using SPSS version 26. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and p-value was constructed to evaluate the associations between postnatal care service utilization and explanatory variables. The usage of postnatal care services was determined to be significantly correlated with explanatory variables in multivariable logistic regression with a p-value less than 0.05. This qualitative study used two focused group discussions and two in-depth interviews to gather data from purposely selected mothers, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results and Discussion

A total of 422 participants with a 100% response rate were included in the analysis. 234 (55.5%) of these underwent postnatal checks. In the quantitative section, postnatal care counseling and appointment setting, counseling on danger signs, and prior postnatal care utilization all demonstrated a statistically significant association with the use of postnatal care services (AOR = 3.6, 95% CI (1.47–7.23)), [AOR = 2, 95% CI (1.05–3.64)], and [AOR = 3, 95% CI (1.36–58), respectively). At the qualitative level, it was determined that the themes of knowledge and access were obstacles to the use of postpartum care services. Generally this study revealed that the Ilubabor Zone and Buno Bedele Zone have a poor total PNC service utilization rate. Furthermore, ignorance, conventional wisdom, religious activity, distance from facilities, environmental exposure, and waiting time were identified as barriers to postnatal care service utilization. To optimize this service, all parties involved should address these factors.
Cutaneous manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease: basic characteristics, therapy, and potential pathophysiological associations
Authors: He Ronghua , Zhao Subei , Cui Mingyu , Chen Yanhao , Ma Jinrong , Li Jintao , Wang Xiaodong
Published: October 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease typically involving the gastrointestinal tract but not limited to it. IBD can be subdivided into Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) are observed in up to 47% of patients with IBD, with the most frequent reports of cutaneous manifestations. Among these, pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) and erythema nodosum (EN) are the two most common skin manifestations in IBD, and both are immune-related inflammatory skin diseases. The presence of cutaneous EIMs may either be concordant with intestinal disease activity or have an independent course. Despite some progress in research on EIMs, for instance, ectopic expression of gut-specific mucosal address cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1) and chemokine CCL25 on the vascular endothelium of the portal tract have been demonstrated in IBD-related primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), little is understood about the potential pathophysiological associations between IBD and cutaneous EIMs. Whether cutaneous EIMs are inflammatory events with a commonly shared genetic background or environmental risk factors with IBD but independent of IBD or are the result of an extraintestinal extension of intestinal inflammation, remains unclear. The review aims to provide an overview of the two most representative cutaneous manifestations of IBD, describe IBD’s epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and histology, and discuss the immunopathophysiology and existing treatment strategies with biologic agents, with a focus on the potential pathophysiological associations between IBD and cutaneous EIMs.
Genome-wide epitope mapping across multiple host species reveals significant diversity in antibody responses to Coxiella burnetii vaccination and infection
Authors: Bach Emil , Fitzgerald Stephen F. , Williams-MacDonald Sarah E. , Mitchell Mairi , Golde William T. , Longbottom David , Nisbet Alasdair J. , Dinkla Annemieke , Sullivan Eric , Pinapati Richard S. , Tan John C. , Joosten Leo A. B. , Roest Hendrik-Jan , Østerbye Thomas , Koets Ad P. , Buus Søren , McNeilly Tom N.
Published: October 2023

Coxiella burnetii is an important zoonotic bacterial pathogen of global importance, causing the disease Q fever in a wide range of animal hosts. Ruminant livestock, in particular sheep and goats, are considered the main reservoir of human infection. Vaccination is a key control measure, and two commercial vaccines based on formalin-inactivated C. burnetii bacterins are currently available for use in livestock and humans. However, their deployment is limited due to significant reactogenicity in individuals previously sensitized to C. burnetii antigens. Furthermore, these vaccines interfere with available serodiagnostic tests which are also based on C. burnetii bacterin antigens. Defined subunit antigen vaccines offer significant advantages, as they can be engineered to reduce reactogenicity and co-designed with serodiagnostic tests to allow discrimination between vaccinated and infected individuals. This study aimed to investigate the diversity of antibody responses to C. burnetii vaccination and/or infection in cattle, goats, humans, and sheep through genome-wide linear epitope mapping to identify candidate vaccine and diagnostic antigens within the predicted bacterial proteome. Using high-density peptide microarrays, we analyzed the seroreactivity in 156 serum samples from vaccinated and infected individuals to peptides derived from 2,092 open-reading frames in the C. burnetii genome. We found significant diversity in the antibody responses within and between species and across different types of C. burnetii exposure. Through the implementation of three different vaccine candidate selection methods, we identified 493 candidate protein antigens for protein subunit vaccine design or serodiagnostic evaluation, of which 65 have been previously described. This is the first study to investigate multi-species seroreactivity against the entire C. burnetii proteome presented as overlapping linear peptides and provides the basis for the selection of antigen targets for next-generation Q fever vaccines and diagnostic tests.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis: current advances in molecular pathogenesis
Authors: Sconocchia Tommaso , Foßelteder Johannes , Sconocchia Giuseppe , Reinisch Andreas
Published: October 2023

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare and clinically heterogeneous hematological disease characterized by the accumulation of mononuclear phagocytes in various tissues and organs. LCH is often characterized by activating mutations of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway with BRAFV600E being the most recurrent mutation. Although this discovery has greatly helped in understanding the disease and in developing better investigational tools, the process of malignant transformation and the cell of origin are still not fully understood. In this review, we focus on the newest updates regarding the molecular pathogenesis of LCH and novel suggested pathways with treatment potential.
Of mice and lymphoid aggregates: modeling tertiary lymphoid structures in cancer
Authors: Vaccaro Alessandra , van de Walle Tiarne , Ramachandran Mohanraj , Essand Magnus , Dimberg Anna
Published: October 2023

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) are lymph node-like aggregates that can form in association with chronic inflammation or cancer. Mature TLS are organized into B and T cell zones, and are not encapsulated but include all cell types necessary for eliciting an adaptive immune response. TLS have been observed in various cancer types and are generally associated with a positive prognosis as well as increased sensitivity to cancer immunotherapy. However, a comprehensive understanding of the roles of TLS in eliciting anti-tumor immunity as well as the mechanisms involved in their formation and function is still lacking. Further studies in orthotopic, immunocompetent cancer models are necessary to evaluate the influence of TLS on cancer therapies, and to develop new treatments that promote their formation in cancer. Here, we review key insights obtained from functional murine studies, discuss appropriate models that can be used to study cancer-associated TLS, and suggest guidelines on how to identify TLS and distinguish them from other antigen-presenting niches.
Distinct functions and transcriptional signatures in orally induced regulatory T cell populations
Authors: Biswas Moanaro , So Kaman , Bertolini Thais B. , Krishnan Preethi , Rana Jyoti , Muñoz-Melero Maite , Syed Farooq , Kumar Sandeep R. P. , Gao Hongyu , Xuei Xiaoling , Terhorst Cox , Daniell Henry , Cao Sha , Herzog Roland W.
Published: October 2023

Oral administration of antigen induces regulatory T cells (Treg) that can not only control local immune responses in the small intestine, but also traffic to the central immune system to deliver systemic suppression. Employing murine models of the inherited bleeding disorder hemophilia, we find that oral antigen administration induces three CD4+ Treg subsets, namely FoxP3+LAP-, FoxP3+LAP+, and FoxP3-LAP+. These T cells act in concert to suppress systemic antibody production induced by therapeutic protein administration. Whilst both FoxP3+LAP+ and FoxP3-LAP+ CD4+ T cells express membrane-bound TGF-β (latency associated peptide, LAP), phenotypic, functional, and single cell transcriptomic analyses reveal distinct characteristics in the two subsets. As judged by an increase in IL-2Rα and TCR signaling, elevated expression of co-inhibitory receptor molecules and upregulation of the TGFβ and IL-10 signaling pathways, FoxP3+LAP+ cells are an activated form of FoxP3+LAP- Treg. Whereas FoxP3-LAP+ cells express low levels of genes involved in TCR signaling or co-stimulation, engagement of the AP-1 complex members Jun/Fos and Atf3 is most prominent, consistent with potent IL-10 production. Single cell transcriptomic analysis further reveals that engagement of the Jun/Fos transcription factors is requisite for mediating TGFβ expression. This can occur via an Il2ra dependent or independent process in FoxP3+LAP+ or FoxP3-LAP+ cells respectively. Surprisingly, both FoxP3+LAP+ and FoxP3-LAP+ cells potently suppress and induce FoxP3 expression in CD4+ conventional T cells. In this process, FoxP3-LAP+ cells may themselves convert to FoxP3+ Treg. We conclude that orally induced suppression is dependent on multiple regulatory cell types with complementary and interconnected roles.
Identification of tryptophan metabolism- and immune-related genes signature and prediction of immune infiltration landscape in bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Guanwen , Qin Guoliang , Zhang Zhaocun , Zhao Haifeng , Xue Linlin
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Tryptophan metabolism is indirectly involved in immune tolerance and promotes response to anticancer drugs. However, the mechanisms underlying tryptophan metabolism and immune landscape in bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) are not fully understood.

Methods

A BLCA dataset containing 406 tumor samples with clinical survival information and 19 normal samples were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas database. The validation set, GSE32894, contained 223 BLCA tumor samples with survival information, and the single-cell dataset, GSE135337, included seven BLCA tumor samples; both were obtained from the gene expression omnibus database. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to evaluate clinical parameters and risk scores. Immune infiltration and checkpoint analyses were performed to explore the immune landscape of BLCA. Single-cell analysis was conducted to further identify the roles of model genes in BLCA. Finally, NAMPT expression in BLCA and adjacent tissues was detected using RT-qPCR, CCK-8 and Transwell assays were conducted to determine the role of NAMPT in BLCA cells.

Results

Six crossover genes (TDO2, ACAT1, IDO1, KMO, KYNU, and NAMPT) were identified by overlap analysis of tryptophan metabolism-related genes, immune-related genes, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Three biomarkers, NAMPT, IDO1, and ACAT1, were identified using Cox regression analysis. Accordingly, a tryptophan metabolism- and immune-related gene risk model was constructed, and the patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups. There were significant differences in the clinical parameters, prognosis, immune infiltration, and immunotherapy response between the risk groups. RT-qPCR revealed that NAMPT was upregulated in BLCA samples. Knocking down NAMPT significantly inhibited BLCA cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

Discussion

In our study, we constructed a tryptophan metabolism- and immune-related gene risk model based on three biomarkers, namely NAMPT, IDO1, and ACAT1, that were significantly associated with the progression and immune landscape of BLCA. The risk model could effectively predict patient prognosis and immunotherapy response and can guide individualized immunotherapy.
An mRNA vaccine against rabies provides strong and durable protection in mice
Authors: Li Miao , Fang Enyue , Wang Yunpeng , Shi Leitai , Li Jia , Peng Qinhua , Li Xingxing , Zhao Danhua , Liu Xiaohui , Liu Xinyu , Liu Jingjing , Xu Hongshan , Wang Hongyu , Huang Yanqiu , Yang Ren , Yue Guangzhi , Suo Yue , Wu Xiaohong , Cao Shouchun , Li Yuhua
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Rabies is a serious public health problem worldwide for which an effective treatment method is lacking but can be prevented by vaccines. Current vaccines are produced in cell or egg cultures, which are both costly and time consuming.

Methods

Here, a non-replicating mRNA vaccine (RV021) encoding the rabies virus glycoprotein was developed in vitro, and its immunogenicity and protective efficacy against live virus was evaluated in mice.

Results

A two-dose vaccination with 1 μg of RV021 at 7-day intervals induced a protective level of neutralizing antibody that was maintained for at least 260 days. RV021 induced a robust cellular immune response that was significantly superior to that of an inactivated vaccine. Two doses of 1 μg RV021 provided full protection against challenge with CVS of 30~60-fold lethal dose, 50%. Vaccine potency testing (according to the National Institutes of Health) in vivo revealed that the potency of RV021 at 15 μg/dose was 7.5 IU/dose, which is substantially higher than the standard for lot release of rabies vaccines for current human use.

Conclusion

The mRNA vaccine RV021 induces a strong protective immune response in mice, providing a new and promising strategy for human rabies prevention and control.
Buckling response of functionally graded multilayer graphene platelet-reinforced composite plates with circular/elliptical cutouts supporting on an elastic foundation under normal and shear loads
Authors: Kalhori Amin , Bayat Mohammad Javad , Asemi Kamran
Published: October 2023

The present article deals with the buckling response of functionally graded multilayer graphene platelet-reinforced composite (FG-GPL RC) rectangular plates with circular/elliptical cutouts resting on a Winkler-type elastic foundation under uniaxial and biaxial normal and shear loads. Rule of mixtures and the Halpin–Tsai approach are applied to obtain the effective Poisson’s ratio, mass density, and elastic modulus of the reinforced composite. The governing equations are developed by applying the third-order shear deformation plate theory. Then, the finite element procedure is used to solve the problem. Four different types of graphene platelet distributions, namely, UD, FG-X, FG-V, and FG-O, are considered. A broad range of factors such as plate aspect ratio, plate slenderness ratio, applying uniaxial and biaxial normal and shear loads to the plate, several Winkler elastic foundation stiffness parameters, different displacement boundary conditions, the effect of size of the circular cutout and orientation of the elliptical cutout, and the influence of GPL weight fraction are discussed in several tabular and graphical data in detail.
Status and influencing factors of elder neglect by geriatric nursing assistants in Chinese nursing homes: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Wang Jing , Yang Zhihua , Li Ya , Ma Ruijuan , Zhang Liping , Du Yage , Dou Haoying
Published: October 2023

Background

In nursing homes, elder neglect has come to the forefront. Currently, few studies have examined the impact of personal and organizational factors of geriatric nursing assistants on elder neglect. From the perspective of geriatric nursing assistants, this study aims to explore the current situation and influencing factors of elder neglect in Chinese nursing homes.

Methods

A convenience sampling method was used to recruit 412 geriatric nursing assistants from 50 nursing homes in China. Participants were surveyed using a demographic questionnaire, the Elder Neglect Scale for Geriatric Nursing Assistants, the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and the Proactive Personality Scale (PPS). Spearman correlation analysis and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the factors influencing elder neglect.

Results

Geriatric nursing assistants scored a median of 74 out of 85 on the Elder Neglect Scale. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that the main personal factors influencing geriatric nursing assistants’ elder neglect were general self-efficacy (β = 0.312), proactive personality (β = 0.180), and advanced qualification (β = 0.084), while the main organizational factors included monthly salary ≤ 1,900 RMB (β = −0.256), no regular training after induction (β = −0.253), and the number of days off per month (3–4 days off β = 0.192, ≥ 5 days off β = 0.101).

Conclusion

Although geriatric nursing assistants are at low levels of elder neglect, it remains a cause for concern. Among the personal factors, geriatric nursing assistants who possessed proactive personalities, high self-efficacy and advanced qualifications, exhibited low levels of elder neglect. Among the organizational factors, those who possessed a high number of days off per month portrayed low levels of elder neglect. Conversely, those who received low monthly salaries and no regular training after induction portrayed high levels of elder neglect. To reduce the risk of elder neglect, nursing homes should give due consideration to candidates’ self-efficacy and proactive personality traits when recruiting, and focus on fostering these personality traits in their employees during their work. In addition, strengthening regular training for geriatric nursing assistants, optimizing the salary structure, and arranging rest days in a reasonable manner are also necessary measures.
T2SS-peptidase XcpA associated with LasR evolutional phenotypic variations provides a fitness advantage to Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Cheng Mengmeng , Chen Ruiyi , Liao Lisheng
Published: October 2023

The Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa possesses hierarchical quorum sensing (QS) systems. The intricate QS network of P. aeruginosa synchronizes a suite of virulence factors, contributing to the mortality and morbidity linked to the pathogenicity of this bacterium. Previous studies have revealed that variations in the lasR gene are frequently observed in chronic isolates of cystic fibrosis (CF). Specifically, LasRQ45stop was identified as a common variant among CF, lasR mutants during statistical analysis of the clinical lasR mutants in the database. In this study, we introduced LasRQ45stop into the chromosome of P. aeruginosa PAO1 through allelic replacement. The social traits of PAO1 LasRQ45stop were found to be equivalent to those of PAO1 LasR-null isolates. By co-evolving with the wild-type in caseinate broth, elastase-phenotypic-variability variants were derived from the LasRQ45stop subpopulation. Upon further examination of four LasRQ45stop sublines, we determined that the variation of T2SS-peptidase xcpA and mexT genes plays a pivotal role in the divergence of various phenotypes, including public goods elastase secretion and other pathogenicity traits. Furthermore, XcpA mutants demonstrated a fitness advantage compared to parent strains during co-evolution. Numerous phenotypic variations were associated with subline-specific genetic alterations. Collectively, these findings suggest that even within the same parental subline, there is ongoing microevolution of individual mutational trajectory diversity during adaptation.
Synergistic effects of earthworms and cow manure under reduced chemical fertilization modified microbial community structure to mitigate continuous cropping effects on Chinese flowering cabbage
Authors: Gao Fucheng , Ye Lin , Mu Xiaoguo , Xu Lei , Shi Zhenfang , Luo Yuan
Published: October 2023

The substitution of chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers is a viable strategy to enhance crop yield and soil quality. In this study, the aim was to investigate the changes in soil microorganisms, soil chemical properties, and growth of Chinese flowering cabbage under different fertilization treatments involving earthworms and cow manure. Compared with the control (100% chemical fertilizer), CE (30% reduction in chemical fertilizer + earthworms) and CFE (30% reduction in chemical fertilizer + cow dung + earthworms) treatments at soil pH 8.14 and 8.07, respectively, and CFC (30% reduction in chemical fertilizer + cow manure) and CFE treatments increased soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), available nitrogen (AN), and available potassium (AK) contents. Earthworms and cow manure promoted the abundance of Bacillus and reduced that of the pathogens Plectosphaerella and Gibberella. The mantle test revealed that pH was not correlated with the microbial community. Random forest analysis verified that AN, SOM, and TN were important factors that jointly influenced bacterial and fungal diversity. Overall, the synergistic effect of earthworms and cow manure increased soil fertility and microbial diversity, thereby promoting the growth and development of Chinese flowering cabbage. This study enhanced the understanding of how bioregulation affects the growth and soil quality of Chinese flowering cabbage, and thus provided a guidance for the optimization of fertilization strategies to maximize the yield and quality of Chinese flowering cabbage while reducing environmental risks.
Influence of HIV infection on cognition and overall intelligence in HIV-infected individuals: advances and perspectives
Authors: Zaongo Silvere D. , Harypursat Vijay , Rashid Farooq , Dahourou Désiré Lucien , Ouedraogo Abdoul-Salam , Chen Yaokai
Published: October 2023

It is now well understood that HIV-positive individuals, even those under effective ART, tend to develop a spectrum of cognitive, motor, and/or mood conditions which are contemporarily referred to as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), and which is directly related to HIV-1 infection and HIV-1 replication in the central nervous system (CNS). As HAND is known to induce difficulties associated with attention, concentration, and memory, it is thus legitimate and pertinent to speculate upon the possibility that HIV infection may well influence human cognition and intelligence. We therefore propose herein to review the concept of intelligence, the concept of cells of intelligence, the influence of HIV on these particular cells, and the evidence pointing to differences in observed intelligence quotient (IQ) scores between HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals. Additionally, cumulative research evidence continues to draw attention to the influence of the gut on human intelligence. Up to now, although it is known that HIV infection profoundly alters both the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota and the structural integrity of the gut, the influence of the gut on intelligence in the context of HIV infection remains poorly described. As such, we also provide herein a review of the different ways in which HIV may influence human intelligence via the gut-brain axis. Finally, we provide a discourse on perspectives related to HIV and human intelligence which may assist in generating more robust evidence with respect to this issue in future studies. Our aim is to provide insightful knowledge for the identification of novel areas of investigation, in order to reveal and explain some of the enigmas related to HIV infection.
Neurorobotic reinforcement learning for domains with parametrical uncertainty
Authors: Amaya Camilo , von Arnim Axel
Published: October 2023

Neuromorphic hardware paired with brain-inspired learning strategies have enormous potential for robot control. Explicitly, these advantages include low energy consumption, low latency, and adaptability. Therefore, developing and improving learning strategies, algorithms, and neuromorphic hardware integration in simulation is a key to moving the state-of-the-art forward. In this study, we used the neurorobotics platform (NRP) simulation framework to implement spiking reinforcement learning control for a robotic arm. We implemented a force-torque feedback-based classic object insertion task (“peg-in-hole”) and controlled the robot for the first time with neuromorphic hardware in the loop. We therefore provide a solution for training the system in uncertain environmental domains by using randomized simulation parameters. This leads to policies that are robust to real-world parameter variations in the target domain, filling the sim-to-real gap.To the best of our knowledge, it is the first neuromorphic implementation of the peg-in-hole task in simulation with the neuromorphic Loihi chip in the loop, and with scripted accelerated interactive training in the Neurorobotics Platform, including randomized domains.
Trunk muscle dysfunction in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 2 and its contribution to chronic low back pain
Authors: Vlazna Daniela , Krkoska Peter , Sladeckova Michaela , Parmova Olesja , Barusova Tamara , Hrabcova Karolina , Vohanka Stanislav , Matulova Katerina , Adamova Blanka
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Myotonic dystrophy type 2 (MD2) presents with a varied manifestation. Even though the myopathy in these patients is more widespread, axial musculature involvement is one of the most prominent conditions. MD2 patients also often report chronic low back pain (CLBP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate trunk muscle function, including respiratory muscles, in patients with MD2 and to compare it with healthy controls, to determine the occurrence of CLBP in patients with MD2, and to assess whether trunk muscle dysfunction increases the risk of CLBP in these patients.

Methods

We enrolled 40 MD2 patients (age range 23 to 76 years, 26 women). A comprehensive battery of tests was used to evaluate trunk muscle function. The tests consisted of quantitative muscle strength testing of low back extensor muscles and respiratory muscles and the assessment of trunk muscle endurance. A neurological evaluation contained procedures assessing the distribution of muscle weakness, myotonia, and pain, and used questionnaires focused on these items and on disability, depression, and physical activity.

Results

The results of this study suggest that patients with MD2 show significant dysfunction of the trunk muscles, including the respiratory muscles, expressed by decreased muscle strength and endurance. The prevalence of CLBP in patients with MD2 was 52.5%. Based on our analysis, the only independent significant risk factor for CLBP in these patients was maximal isometric lower back extensor strength in a prone position ≤ 15.8 kg (OR = 37.3). Other possible risk factors were severity of myotonia and reduced physical activity.

Conclusion

Outcomes of this study highlighted the presence of axial muscle dysfunction, respiratory muscle weakness, and frequent occurrence of CLBP together with its risk factors in patients with MD2. We believe that the findings of this study may help in management and prevention programs for patients with MD2.
Altered brain functional networks in schizophrenia with persistent negative symptoms: an activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Tingting , Wang Zengxiu , Wu Weifeng , Ling Yuru , Wang Zixu , Zhou Chao , Fang Xinyu , Huang Chengbing , Xie Chunming , Chen Jiu , Zhang Xiangrong
Published: October 2023

Objective

To investigate brain structural and functional characteristics of three brain functional networks including default mode network (DMN), central executive network (CEN), and salience network (SN) in persistent negative symptoms (PNS) patients.

Methods

We performed an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis of functional connectivity (FC) studies and voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies to detect specific structural and functional alterations of brain networks between PNS patients and healthy controls.

Results

Seventeen VBM studies and twenty FC studies were included. In the DMN, PNS patients showed decreased gray matter in the bilateral medial frontal gyrus and left anterior cingulate gyrus and a significant reduction of FC in the right precuneus. Also, PNS patients had a decrease of gray matter in the left inferior parietal lobules and medial frontal gyrus, and a significant reduction of FC in the bilateral superior frontal gyrus in the CEN. In comparison with healthy controls, PNS patients exhibited reduced gray matter in the bilateral insula, anterior cingulate gyrus, left precentral gyrus and right claustrum and lower FC in these brain areas in the SN, including the left insula, claustrum, inferior frontal gyrus and extra-nuclear.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis reveals brain structural and functional imaging alterations in the three networks and the interaction among these networks in PNS patients, which provides neuroscientific evidence for more personalized treatment.

Systematic Review RegistrationThe PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, registration number: CRD42022335962).
Functional MRI activation of the nucleus tractus solitarius after taste stimuli at ultra-high field: a proof-of-concept single-subject study
Authors: Canna Antonietta , Cantone Elena , Roefs Anne , Franssen Sieske , Prinster Anna , Formisano Elia , Di Salle Francesco , Esposito Fabrizio
Published: October 2023

Using ultra-high field (7 Tesla) functional MRI (fMRI), we conducted the first in-vivo functional neuroimaging study of the normal human brainstem specifically designed to examine neural signals in the Nucleus Tractus Solitarius (NTS) in response to all basic taste stimuli. NTS represents the first relay station along the mammalian taste processing pathway which originates at the taste buds in the oral cavity and passes through the thalamus before reaching the primary taste cortex in the brain. In our proof-of-concept study, we acquired data from one adult volunteer using fMRI at 1.2 mm isotropic resolution and performed a univariate general linear model analysis. During fMRI acquisition, three shuffled injections of sweet, bitter, salty, sour, and umami solutions were administered following an event-related design. We observed a statistically significant blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) response in the anatomically predicted location of the NTS for all five basic tastes. The results of this study appear statistically robust, even though they were obtained from a single volunteer. The information derived from a similar experimental strategy may inspire novel research aimed at clarifying important details of central nervous system involvement in eating disorders, at designing and monitoring tailored therapeutic strategies.
Genetic diet interactions of ACE: the increased hypertension predisposition in the Latin American population
Authors: Zambrano Ana Karina , Cadena-Ullauri Santiago , Guevara-Ramírez Patricia , Ruiz-Pozo Viviana A. , Tamayo-Trujillo Rafael , Paz-Cruz Elius , Ibarra-Rodríguez Adriana Alexandra , Doménech Nieves
Published: October 2023

Hypertension is one of the primary risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). It is a condition that affects people worldwide, and its prevalence is increasing due to several factors, such as lack of physical activity, population aging, and unhealthy diets. Notably, this increase has primarily occurred in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). In Latin America, approximately 40% of adults have been diagnosed with hypertension. Moreover, reports have shown that the Latin American genetic composition is highly diverse, and this genetic background can influence various biological processes, including disease predisposition and treatment effectiveness. Research has shown that Western dietary patterns, which include increased consumption of red meat, refined grains, sugar, and ultra-processed food, have spread across the globe, including Latin America, due to globalization processes. Furthermore, a higher than recommended sodium consumption, which has been associated with hypertension, has been identified across different regions, including Asia, Europe, America, Oceania, and Africa. In conclusion, hypertension is a multifactorial disease involving environmental and genetic factors. In Latin America, hypertension prevalence is increasing due to various factors, including age, the adoption of a “Westernized” diet, and potential genetic predisposition factors involving the ACE gene. Furthermore, identifying the genetic and molecular mechanisms of the disease, its association with diet, and how they interact is essential for the development of personalized treatments to increase its efficacy and reduce side effects.
Effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on nutritional status and inflammatory response in patients with stage II-III NSCLC undergoing postoperative chemotherapy: a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gui Long , Cheng Mingjin , Zheng Min , Ning Chengdong , Huo Qianlun
Published: October 2023

Background

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the effects of oral omega-3 fatty acids in lowering the risk of malnutrition and improving the inflammatory response in patients with stage II-III lung cancer receiving postoperative chemotherapy.

Methods

One hundred and three lung cancer patients identified as being at risk for malnutrition according to the 2002 nutritional risk screening criteria were randomized into either the omega-3 fatty acid supplementation group or the placebo group during postoperative chemotherapy. Data on anthropometric parameters, laboratory nutritional indicators, and inflammatory markers were collected, and changes and differences between the two groups were compared and analyzed.

Results

Sixty three patients were included in the final analysis. The baseline information of the two groups of patients was comparable (p > 0.05). After 12 weeks, patients in the treatment group exhibited significantly higher levels of hemoglobin (11.26 ± 1.25 vs.10.60 ± 0.94, p = 0.021) and serum albumin (45.38 ± 5.06 vs.42.66 ± 5.06, p = 0.036) compared with those in the placebo group. Meanwhile, the levels of inflammatory factors C-reactive protein (2.16 ± 1.06 vs. 4.11 ± 1.72, p < 0.001), interleukin-1 (6.61 ± 2.19 vs.10.85 ± 3.61, p < 0.001), interleukin-6 (2.48 ± 1.20 vs. 4.53 ± 0.98, p < 0.001), interleukin-8 (9.26 ± 2.69 vs. 39.01 ± 6.53, p < 0.001), and tumor necrosis factor-α (1.88 ± 0.60 vs. 4.07 ± 0.97, p < 0.001) were significantly decreased in the treatment group. In contrast, differences in weight, BMI, upper arm circumference, triceps skinfold thickness, triglycerides, cholesterol, and IFN-γ between the two groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Finally, in the treatment group, the levels of hemoglobin (10.89 ± 1.15 vs. 11.82 ± 1.21, p = 0.042), triglyceride (0.92 ± 0.29 vs. 1.03 ± 0.22, p = 0.043), and cholesterol (3.56 ± 0.82 vs. 4.23 ± 0.88, p = 0.045) were higher in stage II patients after the intervention compared with stage III patients.

Conclusion

Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improved nutritional status and reduced chronic inflammatory responses in patients with stage II-III non-small cell lung cancer undergoing postoperative chemotherapy.

Clinical Trial Registration

AEA RCT Registry, identifier AEARCTR-0007165.