bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased e-cigarette use prevalence is associated with decreased smoking prevalence among US adults
Authors: Foxon Floe , Selya Arielle , Gitchell Joe , Shiffman Saul
Published: July 2024

Background

If US adults who smoke cigarettes are switching to e-cigarettes, the effect may be observable at the population level: smoking prevalence should decline as e-cigarette prevalence increases, especially in sub-populations with highest e-cigarette use. This study aimed to assess such effects in recent nationally-representative data.

Methods

We updated a prior analysis with the latest available National Health Interview Survey data through 2022. Data were cross-sectional estimates of the yearly prevalence of smoking and e-cigarette use, respectively, among US adults and among specific age, race/ethnicity, and sex subpopulations. Non-linear models were fitted to observed smoking prevalence in the pre-e-cigarette era, with a range of ‘cut-off’ years explored (i.e., between when e-cigarettes were first introduced to when they became widely available). These trends were projected forward to predict what smoking prevalence would have been if pre-e-cigarette era trends had continued uninterrupted. The difference between actual and predicted smoking prevalence (‘discrepancy’) was compared to e-cigarette use prevalence in each year in the e-cigarette era to investigate whether the observed decline in smoking was statistically associated with e-cigarette use.

Results

Observed smoking prevalence in the e-cigarette era was significantly lower than expected based on pre-e-cigarette era trends; these discrepancies in smoking prevalence grew as e-cigarette use prevalence increased, and were larger in subpopulations with higher e-cigarette use, especially younger adults aged 18–34. Results were robust to sensitivity tests varying the analysis design.

Conclusions

Population-level data continue to suggest that smoking prevalence has declined at an accelerated rate in the last decade in ways correlated with increased uptake of e-cigarette use.
Systematic evaluation of the efficacy of treatments for cesarean scar pregnancy
Authors: Sun Haiying , Wang Juan , Fu Peiying , Zhou Ting , Liu Ronghua
Published: July 2024

Study objective

Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is a type of ectopic pregnancy associated with severe complications, including significant hemorrhage, the potential need for hysterectomy, and life-threatening risks. Currently, two classification methods exist for CSP: Vial (type Ia and IIa) and Chinese Expert’s Consensus (type Ib, type IIb, and type IIIb). However, these methods have limitations in guiding the selection of appropriate treatment plans for CSP. The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of various treatments for CSP within our clinic.

Method

Our study included 906 patients with CSP from January 2013 to December 2018. The chi-squared test and logistic analysis were used to compare the clinical characteristics. The median and interquartile range (IQR) was calculated. We also analyzed whether preoperative application of methotrexate (MTX) could improve surgical outcomes and the relevant characteristics of misdiagnosed CSP patients.

Results

There was a significant difference in gestational age, gestational sac diameter, gestational sac width, gestational sac area, remnant myometrial thickness, vaginal bleeding and preoperative hemoglobin levels (p < 0.001) but not in the incidence of residual tissue (p = 0.053). The other factors (intraoperative blood loss, hemoglobin decline, first hemoglobin after operation, total hospital stay, hospital stay after operation, transfusion and duration of catheter drain) were significantly different (p < 0.001). For type Ia and type Ib CSP, 39.3% and 40.2% of patients were treated with dilatation and curettage (D&E) under ultrasound, respectively. For type IIa and type IIIb CSP, 29.9% and 62.7% of patients were treated with laparotomy, respectively. There were no differences in surgical methods, residual tissue and reoperation between the MTX and non-MTX groups (p = 0.20), but liver damage, hospital stay and pain perception were more remarkable in the MTX group. It is noteworthy that 14% of the patients were misdiagnosed with an intrauterine pregnancy. The incidence of misdiagnosis in type IIa CSP patients was higher than that in type Ia CSP patients (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

For type I CSP patients, D&E under ultrasound or D&E under hysteroscopy should be recommended. For type IIIb CSP patients, operative resection should be used. It is currently difficult to choose the appropriate treatment methods for type IIa or type IIb CSP patients.
Herpes simplex virus 1 accelerates the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by modulating microglial phagocytosis and activating NLRP3 pathway
Authors: Wang Zhimeng , Liu Jing , Han Jing , Zhang Tianyi , Li Shangjin , Hou Yanfei , Su Huili , Han Fangping , Zhang Conggang
Published: July 2024

Accumulating evidence implicates that herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) has been linked to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). HSV-1 infection induces β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition in vitro and in vivo, but the effect and precise mechanism remain elusive. Here, we show that HSV-1 infection of the brains of transgenic 5xFAD mice resulted in accelerated Aβ deposition, gliosis, and cognitive dysfunction. We demonstrate that HSV-1 infection induced the recruitment of microglia to the viral core to trigger microglial phagocytosis of HSV-GFP-positive neuronal cells. In addition, we reveal that the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway induced by HSV-1 infection played a crucial role in Aβ deposition and the progression of AD caused by HSV-1 infection. Blockade of the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling reduces Aβ deposition and alleviates cognitive decline in 5xFAD mice after HSV-1 infection. Our findings support the notion that HSV-1 infection is a key factor in the etiology of AD, demonstrating that NLRP3 inflammasome activation functions in the interface of HSV-1 infection and Aβ deposition in AD.
Cholinergic nucleus degeneration and its association with gait impairment in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Zhang Xiaodan , Wang Mateng , Lee Shi Yeow , Yue Yumei , Chen Zhaoying , Zhang Yilin , Wang Lulu , Guan Qiongfeng , Fan Weinv , Shen Ting
Published: July 2024

Background

The contribution of cholinergic degeneration to gait disturbance in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is increasingly recognized, yet its relationship with dopaminergic-resistant gait parameters has been poorly investigated. We investigated the association between comprehensive gait parameters and cholinergic nucleus degeneration in PD.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 84 PD patients and 69 controls. All subjects underwent brain structural magnetic resonance imaging to assess the gray matter density (GMD) and volume (GMV) of the cholinergic nuclei (Ch123/Ch4). Gait parameters under single-task (ST) and dual-task (DT) walking tests were acquired using sensor wearables in PD group. We compared cholinergic nucleus morphology and gait performance between groups and examined their association.

Results

PD patients exhibited significantly decreased GMD and GMV of the left Ch4 compared to controls after reaching HY stage > 2. Significant correlations were observed between multiple gait parameters and bilateral Ch123/Ch4. After multiple testing correction, the Ch123/Ch4 degeneration was significantly associated with shorter stride length, lower gait velocity, longer stance phase, smaller ankle toe-off and heel-strike angles under both ST and DT condition. For PD patients with HY stage 1–2, there were no significant degeneration of Ch123/4, and only right side Ch123/Ch4 were corrected with the gait parameters. However, as the disease progressed to HY stage > 2, bilateral Ch123/Ch4 nuclei showed correlations with gait performance, with more extensive significant correlations were observed in the right side.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated the progressive association between cholinergic nuclei degeneration and gait impairment across different stages of PD, and highlighting the potential lateralization of the cholinergic nuclei’s impact on gait impairment. These findings offer insights for the design and implementation of future clinical trials investigating cholinergic treatments as a promising approach to address gait impairments in PD.
The modified suture-bridge technique for treating avulsion fracture of minors tibial eminence of anterior cruciate ligament: a retrospective study
Authors: Du Yimin , Wang Zhaojun , Wu Shaojun , Zhou Peng , Li Zheng , Yang Jinghong , Zhong Jun , Li Zhong , Liu Juncai
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of modified suture-bridge technique fixation for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tibial avulsion fracture.

Method

Minors who underwent arthroscopic reduction and modified suture bridge fixation of ACL tibial avulsion fracture between January 2018 and January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative MRI and X-ray examinations were performed to evaluate the presence of epiphyseal plate injury and fracture healing. Moreover, KT-1000 side-to-side difference, Lachman test, range of motion (ROM), the subjective Knee score of the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm Knee score, and Tegner activity grade score were evaluated preoperatively and at the minimum 1-year follow-up visit.

Results

A total of 16 participants met the inclusion criteria. They had a mean age of 12.6 years (range, 9–16 years); mean time to surgery, 6.9 days (range, 2–13 days) and had a minimum of 12 months clinical follow-up (mean, 25.4 months; range, 12–36 months) after surgery. Postoperative radiographs and MRI showed no injury to the epiphyseal plate, optimal reduction immediately after the operation, and bone union within three months in all patients. All of the following showed significant improvements (pre- vs. postoperatively): mean KT-1000 side-to-side difference (8.6 vs. 1.5; p < 0.05), Lachman tests (2 grade 9 and 3 grade 7 vs. 0 grade 12 and 1 grade 4; p < 0.05), IKDC subjective score (48.3 vs. 95.0; p < 0.05), mean Lysholm score (53.9 vs. 92.2; p < 0.05), mean Tegner activity score (3.2 vs. 8.3; p < 0.05) and mean ROM (42.9°vs 133.1°; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Arthroscopic reduction and modified suture bridge fixation for ACL tibial avulsion fracture is a dependable and recommended treatment that can effectively restore the stability and function of the knee and is worthy of clinical promotion.
Comparison of step-count outcomes across seven different activity trackers: a free-living experiment with young and older adults
Authors: Nakagata Takashi , Yamada Yosuke , Taniguchi Masashi , Nanri Hinako , Kimura Misaka , Miyachi Motohiko , Ono Rei
Published: July 2024

Background

There are now many different types of activity trackers, including pedometers and accelerometers, to estimate step counts per day. Previous research has extensively examined step-count measurements using activity trackers across various settings while simultaneously wearing different devices.; however, older adults frequently display distinct walking patterns and gait speeds compared to younger adults. This study aimed to compare the step-count between older and younger adults by having them simultaneously wear seven different activity trackers in free-living experiments.

Methods

This study included 35 younger adults (21–43 yrs) and 57 physically independent older adults (65–91 yrs). All participants simultaneously wore one pedometer and six activity trackers: ActiGraph GT3X + Wrist and Hip, Omron Active Style Pro HJA-350IT, Panasonic Actimarker, TANITA EZ-064, Yamasa TH-300, and Yamasa AS-200 for seven days. A regression equation was also used to assess inter-device compatibility.

Results

When comparing wrist-worn ActiGraph to the six hip-worn activity trackers, the wrist-worn ActiGraph consistently recorded step counts over 4,000 steps higher than hip-worn activity trackers in both groups (range, 3000–5000 steps). Moreover, when comparing the ActiGraph worn on the wrist to that worn on the hip, the proportion was higher among older adults compared to younger ones (younger: 131%, older: 180%). The Actimarker recorded the highest average step counts among six hip-worn devices, with 8,569 ± 4,881 overall, 9,624 ± 5,177 for younger adults, and 7,890 ± 4,562 for older adults. The difference between the hip-worn ActiGraph and Active Style Pro was just about 70 steps/day overall. The correlation among all devices demonstrated a very high consistency, except for the wrist-worn ActiGraph (r = 0.874–0.978).

Conclusions

Step counts recorded from seven selected consumer-based and research-grade activity trackers and one pedometer, except for the wrist-worn ActiGraph. showed a variation of approximately 1700 steps (range, 1265–2275 steps) steps for both groups, yet maintained a high correlation with each other. These findings will be valuable for researchers and clinicians as they compare step counts across different studies or representative surveys conducted globally.
Effects of walking on epigenetic age acceleration: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Guan-yi , Liu Chao , Xia Yu , Wang Ping-xiao , Zhao Zi-yue , Li Ao-yu , Zhou Chu-qiao , Xiang Cheng , Zhang Jia-lin , Zeng Yi , Gu Peng , Li Hui
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Walking stands as the most prevalent physical activity in the daily lives of individuals and is closely associated with physical functioning and the aging process. Nonetheless, the precise cause-and-effect connection between walking and aging remains unexplored. The epigenetic clock emerges as the most promising biological indicator of aging, capable of mirroring the biological age of the human body and facilitating an investigation into the association between walking and aging. Our primary objective is to investigate the causal impact of walking with epigenetic age acceleration (EAA).

Methods

We conducted a two-sample two-way Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the causal relationship between walking and EAA. Walking and Leisure sedentary behavior data were sourced from UK Biobank, while EAA data were gathered from a total of 28 cohorts. The MR analysis was carried out using several methods, including the inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger, and robust adjusted profile score (RAPS). To ensure the robustness of our findings, we conducted sensitivity analyses, which involved the MR-Egger intercept test, Cochran’s Q test, and MR-PRESSO, to account for and mitigate potential pleiotropy.

Results

The IVW MR results indicate a significant impact of usual walking pace on GrimAge (BETA = − 1.84, 95% CI (− 2.94, − 0.75)), PhenoAge (BETA = − 1.57, 95% CI (− 3.05, − 0.08)), Horvath (BETA = − 1.09 (− 2.14, − 0.04)), and Hannum (BETA = − 1.63, 95% CI (− 2.70, − 0.56)). Usual walking pace is significantly associated with a delay in epigenetic aging acceleration (EAA) (P < 0.05). Moreover, the direction of effect predicted by the gene remained consistent across RAPS outcomes and sensitivity MR analyses. There is a lack of robust causal relationships between other walking conditions, such as walking duration and walking frequency, on EAA (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our evidence demonstrates that a higher usual walking pace is associated with a deceleration of the acceleration of all four classical epigenetic clocks acceleration.
Enzyme replacement therapy and immunotherapy lead to significant functional improvement in two children with Pompe disease: a case report
Authors: Castellar-Leones Sandra Milena , Ortiz-Corredor Fernando , Manrique-Hernández Daniel , Sánchez-Peñarete Diana , Ruiz-Ospina Edicson , Soto-Peña Diana , Correa-Arrieta Cristian
Published: July 2024

Background

Pompe disease, a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by acid alpha-glucosidase deficiency, results in progressive glycogen accumulation and multisystem dysfunction. Enzyme replacement therapy with recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase is the standard of care; however, some patients develop anti-recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase antibodies, leading to reduced efficacy. This case report presents two infants with early-onset Pompe disease who developed IgG antibodies to enzyme replacement therapy and were subsequently treated with methotrexate, highlighting the importance of monitoring antibody development and exploring alternative therapeutic approaches.

Case presentation

Patient 1, a 10-month-old female from Bogota, Colombia, presented with generalized hypotonia, macroglossia, hyporeflexia, and mild left ventricular hypertrophy. Diagnostic tests confirmed early-onset Pompe disease, and enzyme replacement therapy was started at 12 months. Due to a lack of improvement and high anti-recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase IgG antibody titers (1:1800), methotrexate was started at 18 months. After 8 months of combined therapy, antibody titers were negative and significant improvement in motor function was observed using the Gross Motor Function Measure 88. Patient 2, a 7-year-old female from Bogota, Colombia, was diagnosed with early-onset Pompe disease at 12 months and initiated enzyme replacement therapy. At 5 years of age, she experienced frequent falls and grip strength alterations. Functional tests revealed motor development delay, generalized hypotonia, and positive anti-recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase IgG antibody titers (6400). Methotrexate was initiated, leading to a reduction in falls and antibody titers (3200) after 6 months, with no adverse events or complications. Motor function improvement was assessed using the Motor Function Measurement 32.

Conclusions

The presented cases highlight the importance of monitoring patients for anti-recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase antibody development during enzyme replacement therapy and the potential benefit of methotrexate as an immunomodulatory agent in early-onset Pompe disease. Early diagnosis and timely initiation of enzyme replacement therapy, combined with prophylactic immune tolerance induction, may improve clinical outcomes and reduce the development of anti-recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase antibodies. The cases also highlight the importance of objective motor function assessment tools, such as Gross Motor Function Measure 88 and Motor Function Measurement 32, in assessing treatment response. Further research is needed to optimize treatment regimens, monitor long-term effects, and address the current limitations of enzyme replacement therapy in Pompe disease.
Skeletal muscle vulnerability in a child with Pitt-Hopkins syndrome
Authors: Chiu Celine , Küchler Alma , Depienne Christel , Preuße Corinna , Marina Adela Della , Reis Andre , Kaiser Frank J. , Nolte Kay , Hentschel Andreas , Schara-Schmidt Ulrike , Kölbel Heike , Roos Andreas
Published: July 2024

Background

TCF4 acts as a transcription factor that binds to the immunoglobulin enhancer Mu-E5/KE5 motif. Dominant variants in TCF4 are associated with the manifestation of Pitt-Hopkins syndrome, a rare disease characterized by severe mental retardation, certain features of facial dysmorphism and, in many cases, with abnormalities in respiratory rhythm (episodes of paroxysmal tachypnea and hyperventilation, followed by apnea and cyanosis). Frequently, patients also develop epilepsy, microcephaly, and postnatal short stature. Although TCF4 is expressed in skeletal muscle and TCF4 seems to play a role in myogenesis as demonstrated in mice, potential myopathological findings taking place upon the presence of dominant TCF4 variants are thus far not described in human skeletal muscle.

Method

To address the pathological effect of a novel deletion affecting exons 15 and 16 of TCF4 on skeletal muscle, histological and immunofluorescence studies were carried out on a quadriceps biopsy in addition to targeted transcript studies and global proteomic profiling.

Results

We report on muscle biopsy findings from a Pitt-Hopkins patient with a novel heterozygous deletion spanning exon 15 and 16 presenting with neuromuscular symptoms. Microscopic characterization of the muscle biopsy revealed moderate fiber type I predominance, imbalance in the proportion of fibroblasts co-expressing Vimentin and CD90, and indicate activation of the complement cascade in TCF4-mutant muscle. Protein dysregulations were unraveled by proteomic profiling. Transcript studies confirmed a mitochondrial vulnerability in muscle and confirmed reduced TCF4 expression.

Conclusion

Our combined findings, for the first time, unveil myopathological changes as phenotypical association of Pitt-Hopkins syndrome and thus expand the current clinical knowledge of the disease as well as support data obtained on skeletal muscle of a mouse model.
Action of dithiocarbimates salts on the honey bee and its pathogen Nosema ceranae
Authors: de Oliveira André Henrique , Rubinger Mayura Marques Magalhães , da Silva Rabello Anderson , Albuini-Oliveira Nathália Matias , Vidigal Antonio Eustáquio Carneiro , de Oliveira Marcelo Ribeiro Leite , Tavares Eder do Couto , Serrão José Eduardo
Published: July 2024

Apis mellifera, crucial pollinators for both native and cultivated plants, also yield various products such as honey, wax, royal jelly, and propolis, extensively utilized in the food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics industries. Nosema ceranae, a prevalent microsporidian worldwide, stands as a significant pathogen for A. mellifera, showing resistance to conventional antibiotics. Consequently, the exploration of novel compounds for N. ceranae control becomes imperative. Dithiocarbimate derivatives emerge as promising antifungal candidates under evaluation for combating various pathogens, particularly those affecting plants. This study assessed the toxicity profile of six dithiocarbimate derivatives on A. mellifera worker survival and N. ceranae pathogen. Among these, four compounds exhibited minimal bee mortality and proceeded to further evaluation against N. ceranae. In vitro assays demonstrated their inhibitory effects on spore germination. Remarkably, the most potent compound suppressed N. ceranae spores by 62% at a concentration of 20 µmol L−1in vivo. Thus, these dithiocarbimate derivatives represent promising new antifungal agents for combatting nosemosis in honey bee populations.
Approximation properties of a modified Gauss–Weierstrass singular integral in a weighted space
Authors: Singh Abhay Pratap , Singh Uaday
Published: July 2024

Singular integral operators play an important role in approximation theory and harmonic analysis. In this paper, we consider a weighted Lebesgue space $L^{p,w}$

L

p
,
w

, define a modified Gauss–Weierstrass singular integral on it, and study direct and inverse approximation properties of the operator followed by a Korovkin-type approximation theorem for a function $f\in L^{p,w}$
f
∈

L

p
,
w

. We use the modulus of continuity of the functions to measure the rate of convergence.
Convergence of gradient descent for learning linear neural networks
Authors: Nguegnang Gabin Maxime , Rauhut Holger , Terstiege Ulrich
Published: July 2024

We study the convergence properties of gradient descent for training deep linear neural networks, i.e., deep matrix factorizations, by extending a previous analysis for the related gradient flow. We show that under suitable conditions on the stepsizes gradient descent converges to a critical point of the loss function, i.e., the square loss in this article. Furthermore, we demonstrate that for almost all initializations gradient descent converges to a global minimum in the case of two layers. In the case of three or more layers, we show that gradient descent converges to a global minimum on the manifold matrices of some fixed rank, where the rank cannot be determined a priori.
Association of late-life blood pressure change with cerebral small vessel disease in the MIND-China study
Authors: Lu Wei , Ma Qingping , Wang Jiafeng , Li Chunyan , Xie Qianqian , Chen Ziwei , Zhang Huisi , Song Lin , Du Yifeng
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the associations between changes in blood pressure (BP) and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD).

Methods

This study included 401 participants in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sub-study conducted between 2018 and 2020 as a part of the Multidomain Interventions to Delay Dementia and Disability in Rural China project. MRI markers of CSVD were assessed based on international criteria. Individualized linear regression models evaluated changes in BP by estimating the trend of blood pressure changes over time and fitting a straight line from 2014 to 2018. The data were analyzed using logistic and general linear regression models.

Result

The mean age of the participants was 64.48 ± 2.69 years, with 237 (59.1%) being females. Increases in systolic BP in later life were significantly associated with larger volumes of periventricular white matter hyperintensity (WMH), greater perivascular spaces in the basal ganglia (BG-PVS) burden, and the presence of deep lacunes and cerebral microbleeds. Additionally, increases in diastolic BP in later life were significantly associated with the presence of infratentorial and deep lacunes.

Conclusions

CSVDs are associated with increased exposure to elevated BP later in life.
CAR-T cell combination therapies in hematologic malignancies
Authors: Zhou Delian , Zhu Xiaojian , Xiao Yi
Published: July 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy, a groundbreaking cancer treatment, has achieved remarkable success against hematologic malignancies. However, CAR-T monotherapy faces challenges in certain cases, including treatment tolerance and relapse rates. To overcome these challenges, researchers are investigating combining CAR-T cells with other treatments to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the progress of research in combining CAR-T cells for hematologic malignancies. It covers the basic principles and clinical applications of CAR-T cell therapy, detailing combinations with chemotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, targeted drugs, radiotherapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and other treatments. These combinations synergistically enhance the antitumor effects of CAR-T cells and comprehensively target tumors through different mechanisms, improving patient response and survival rates.
Evaluating the fairness of a high-stakes college entrance exam in Kuwait
Authors: Shamsaldeen Fajer , Wang Jue , Ahn Soyeon
Published: July 2024

The use of college entrance exams for facilitating admission decisions become controversial, and the central argument is around the fairness of test scores. The Kuwait University English Aptitude Test (KUEAT) is a high-stakes test, but very few studies have examined the psychometric quality of the scores for this national-level assessment. This study illustrates how measurement approaches can be used to examine the fairness issues in educational testing. Through a modern view of fairness, we assess the internal and external bias of KUEAT scores using differential item functioning analysis and differential prediction analysis, respectively, and provide a comprehensive fairness argument for KUEAT scores. The analysis for examining the internal evidence of bias was based on 1790 examinees’ KUEAT scores in November 2018. KUEAT scores and first-year college GPAs of 4033 students enrolled in KU were used for assessing the external evidence of bias. Results revealed many items showing differential item functioning across student subpopulation groups (i.e., nationality, gender, high school majors, and high school types). Meanwhile, KUEAT scores also predicted college performance differentially by different student subgroups (i.e., nationality, high school majors, and high school types). Discussion and implications on the fairness issues of college entrance tests in Kuwait are provided.
A review of 177Lu dosimetry workflows: how to reduce the imaging workloads?
Authors: Vergnaud Laure , Dewaraja Yuni K. , Giraudet Anne-Laure , Badel Jean-Noël , Sarrut David
Published: July 2024

$$^{177}{\hbox {Lu}}$$

177

Lu

radiopharmaceutical therapy is a standardized systemic treatment, with a typical dose of 7.4 GBq per injection, but its response varies from patient to patient. Dosimetry provides the opportunity to personalize treatment, but it requires multiple post-injection images to monitor the radiopharmaceutical’s biodistribution over time. This imposes an additional imaging burden on centers with limited resources. This review explores methods to lessen this burden by optimizing acquisition types and minimizing the number and duration of imaging sessions. After summarizing the different steps of dosimetry and providing examples of dosimetric workflows for $$^{177}{\hbox {Lu}}$$

177

Lu

-DOTATATE and $$^{177}{\hbox {Lu}}$$

177

Lu

-PSMA, we examine dosimetric workflows based on a reduced number of acquisitions, or even just one. We provide a non-exhaustive description of simplified methods and their assumptions, as well as their limitations. Next, we detail the specificities of each normal tissue and tumors, before reviewing dose-response relationships in the literature. In conclusion, we will discuss the current limitations of dosimetric workflows and propose avenues for improvement.
Application research of UAV infrared diagnosis technology in intelligent inspection of substations
Authors: Tian Daqi , Chen Jinlin , Wang Xin
Published: July 2024

This study proposes an improved YOLOv4 algorithm based on mixed domain attention mechanism to design an intelligent substation inspection system. The proposed method combines improvement strategies such as lightweight, depthwise separable convolution, and mixed attention mechanism. The experimental results showed that the identification accuracy of the proposed model was only reduced by 0.2% for test samples at different positions, promoting the accuracy of intelligent inspection to reach 97.5%. The mIoU, mAP, detection speed, and recognition accuracy of the model constructed by the research were 78.34%, 95.12%, 62.05 frames per second, and 95.12%, respectively. Therefore, the proposed model could comprehensively enhance the information expression and recognition accuracy of the system, while promoting intelligent inspection to achieve high accuracy.
Functional analysis of all succinate dehydrogenase subunits in Fusarium fujikuroi
Authors: Fan Mengyuan , Qi Hao , Shao Wenyong , Zhang Hao , Yin Yanni , Chen Yun , Zhao Youfu , Ma Zhonghua
Published: July 2024

Fusarium fujikuroi, the causal agent of rice bakanae disease (RBD), contains five succinate dehydrogenase (Sdh) subunits: FfSdhA, FfSdhB, FfSdhC1, FfSdhC2, and FfSdhD. However, the role of these subunits in regulating sensitivity to succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHIs) is largely unknown. Here, we conducted targeted gene disruption and phenotypic assays for all Sdh subunits and found that the deletion mutants of FfSdhA, FfSdhB, and FfSdhD exhibited severe defects in hyphal growth, conidiation, virulence, and sensitivity to CaCl2 and oxidative stresses. To a lesser extent, the mycelial growth rate and conidial production of ΔFfSdhC1 were also decreased as compared to those of the wild-type strain JS16. In addition, fungicide sensitivity assays showed that deletion of FfSdhA, B, C1, or D led to decreased sensitivity to all SDHIs tested. Unexpectedly, we were unable to obtain a FfSdhC1 + C2 double mutant and further found significant up-regulation of FfSdhC2 in ∆FfSdhC1, indicating that FfSdhC1 and -C2 might be essential for fungal growth although the FfSdhC2 deletion mutant was indistinguishable from the wild-type strain. These findings provide useful information for enhancing our understanding of the biological functions of the Sdh subunits in pathogenic fungi.
Reversible leukoencephalopathy with seizures: a case of severe high-altitude cerebral edema
Authors: Chen Ting , Wu Xintong , Liu Xiaoyan , Luo Fengming
Published: July 2024

Background

Acute high-altitude illness (AHAI) refers to a series of syndromes including acute mountain sickness (AMS), high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE). Among these, HACE is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when individuals ascend to high altitudes. It is often characterized by ataxia, confusion, and altered mental status. Without appropriate treatment, HACE can rapidly progress to coma, but seizures are infrequent in occurrence.

Case presentation

Here, we report a severe HACE patient with coma and status epilepticus. The patient is a 23-year-old male who was visiting Lhasa for the first time. He initially experienced headaches and dizziness on the first day, and then he was found in coma with limb convulsions on the next day. Immediate medical attention was sought, and brain CT and MRI scans showed reversible white matter lesions, especially in the corpus callosum and subcortical white matter. Although the lesions disappeared on T1 and T2 sequences, microbleeds were observed on the SWI sequence. After treatment with tracheal intubation, glucocorticoids and hyperbaric oxygen, the cerebral edema has resolved and the clinical symptoms improved, the patient has no seizures anymore.

Conclusions

HACE typically follows AMS and poses a significant risk to life. Clinical manifestations mainly include ataxia, alterations of behavior, and impaired consciousness, with severe cases progressing to coma. Seizures, though rarely observed, may occur. Imaging shows reversible white matter lesions, with microbleeds being a significant and persistent imaging marker over time. Administration of glucocorticoids plays a crucial role in treatment. Despite experiencing seizures, this patient did not experienced any further episodes once his condition improved.
Informing the Plastic Treaty negotiations on science - experiences from the Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastic Treaty
Authors: Syberg Kristian , Almroth Bethanie Carney , Fernandez Marina Olga , Baztan Juan , Bergmann Melanie , Thompson Richard C. , Gündoğdu Sedat , Knoblauch Doris , Gomiero Alessio , Monclús Laura , Muncke Jane , Boucher Justin M. , Gomez Patricia Villarrubia , Farrelly Trisia
Published: July 2024

The ongoing international negotiations on a global plastics treaty will have pivotal implications for future efforts to transform the plastic economy. This is essential since the current use of plastic in the economy impacts the environment beyond the planetary carrying capacity. To ensure that the forthcoming Treaty can provide the foundation for this transition, the best available science must be made available in the negotiations, but with no formal scientific mechanism to inform the negotiations process, this is not ensured. The Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastic Treaty serves as an example of how the global scientific community has self-organized and come together to address this task, working with five different categories of science-policy communication. The Scientists’ Coalition’s work is made transparent here with the hope that it can inspire organization of scientific input into other future policy areas.
Non-reversible Monte Carlo: An example of “true” self-repelling motion
Authors: Maggs A. C.
Published: July 2024

We link the large-scale dynamics of non-reversible Monte Carlo algorithms as well as a lifted TASEP to an exactly soluble model of self-repelling motion. We present arguments for the connection between the problems and perform simulations, where we show that the empirical distribution functions generated from Monte Carlo are well described by the analytic solution of self-repelling motion.
Novel Approach for Treating Diabetes in a Patient With the Heterozygous Pathogenic Variant R46Q in the Insulin Gene
Authors: Laugesen Kristina , Gregersen Søren , Støy Julie
Published: July 2024

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a monogenic disorder of glucose homeostasis with several subtypes, each defined by a distinct genetic etiology. Heterozygous pathogenic variants in the insulin gene are rare causes of MODY, and optimal treatment strategies remain uncertain. Herein we describe a patient with diabetes caused by the heterozygous pathogenic variant R46Q in the insulin gene and the glycemic response to selected antidiabetic treatment regimens. The R46Q pathogenic variant leads to secretion of both mutant and wild-type insulin. In vitro, the mutant insulin is associated with a lower insulin-receptor affinity compared with wild-type insulin and a decline in wild-type insulin secretion. In our patient, treatment with a combination of long- and short-acting insulin led to a decline in hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), although not to the recommended target. A shift to metformin and subsequent add-on of a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) resulted in HbA1c levels of less than 7% (53 mmol/mol) and durable glycemic control. Continuous glucose monitoring and oral glucose tolerance tests confirmed that treatment with metformin and SGLT2i was superior to treatment with insulin. In conclusion, diabetes caused by the pathogenic variant R46Q in the insulin gene may be effectively treated with noninsulin.
Phylogenetic variations in a novel family of hyperstable apple snail egg proteins: insights into structural stability and functional trends
Authors: Pasquevich María Y. , Dreon Marcos S. , Diupotex-Chong María E. , Heras Horacio
Published: July 2024

The relationship between protein stability and functional evolution is little explored in proteins purified from natural sources. Here, we investigated a novel family of egg proteins (Perivitellin-1, PV1) from Pomacea snails. Their remarkable stability and clade-related functions in most derived clades (Canaliculata and Bridgesii) make them excellent candidates for exploring this issue. To that aim, we studied PV1 (PpaPV1) from the most basal lineage, Flagellata. PpaPV1 displays unparalleled structural and kinetic stability, surpassing PV1s from derived clades, ranking among the most hyperstable proteins documented in nature. Its spectral features contribute to a pale egg coloration, exhibiting a milder glycan binding lectin activity with a narrower specificity than PV1s from the closely related Bridgesii clade. These findings provide evidence for substantial structural and functional changes throughout the genus' PV1 evolution. We observed that structural and kinetic stability decreased in a clade-related fashion and was associated with large variations in defensive traits. For instance, pale PpaPV1 lectin turns potent in the Bridgesii clade, adversely affecting gut morphology, while giving rise to brightly colored PV1s providing eggs with a conspicuous, probably warning signal in the Canaliculata clade. This work provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of PV1s from various apple snail species within a phylogenetic framework, offering insights into the interplay among their structural features, stability profiles and functional roles. More broadly, our work provides one of the first examples from natural evolution showing the crucial link among protein structure, stability and evolution of new functions.
Enhancing comparative politics education in the Asia-Pacific region: A study on the effectiveness of Chinese checkers game for strategy and negotiation learning
Authors: De La Puente Mario , Rico Heidy , Lugo Arias Elkyn , Torres Jose
Published: July 2024

Background This research conducted an extensive exploration in 2021 and 2022 to investigate the implications of integrating Chinese checkers into Comparative Politics courses across the Asia-Pacific region. The primary aim was to enhance students’ strategic thinking and negotiation skills and determine if active engagement with Chinese checkers could significantly improve academic performance. Methods The study employed paired-samples t-tests and independent-samples t-tests to evaluate the impact of Chinese checkers. It involved assessing the academic performance and strategic thinking abilities of students who engaged with the game. The study encompassed a thorough design, participant selection, and procedures related to the intervention, including various outcome measures. Results The investigation revealed notable improvements in academic performance, especially in strategic thinking, among students who actively participated in Chinese checkers gameplay. This research also substantiated the enhanced strategic thinking abilities of students who integrated Chinese checkers into their curriculum, contributing to the corpus of knowledge on innovative pedagogical practices. Conclusions The findings of this study are relevant to educators, students, and policymakers, emphasizing the educational value of unconventional teaching methods like Chinese checkers. In light of the increasing importance of the Asia-Pacific region in global politics, this research underscores the significance of nurturing strategic thinking skills among undergraduate students. The study contributes to the cultivation of critical thinking and strategic acumen within higher education, potentially benefiting society by fostering superior academic performance and the development of strategic thinking abilities.
Contraceptive access and use before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study in South Africa and Zambia
Authors: Callahan Rebecca L. , Cartwright Alice F. , Beksinska Mags , Kasaro Margaret , Tang Jennifer H. , Milford Cecilia , Wong Christina , Velarde Marissa , Maphumulo Virginia , Fawzy Maria , Chinyama Manze , Chabu Esther , Mudenda Mayaba , Smit Jennifer
Published: July 2024

Background The COVID-19 pandemic affected global access to health services, including contraception We sought to explore effects of the pandemic on family planning (FP) service provision and use in South Africa and Zambia, including on implant and intrauterine device (IUD) users’ desire and ability to obtain removal. Methods Between August 2020 and April 2021, we conducted surveys with 537 women participating in an ongoing longitudinal contraceptive continuation study. We also carried out in-depth interviews with 39 of the survey participants and 36 key informants involved in FP provision. We conducted descriptive analysis of survey responses and thematic analysis of interviews. Results Contraceptive use changed minimally in this sample with the emergence of COVID-19. Fewer than half of women (n=220) reported that they tried to access FP since the start of the pandemic. The vast majority of those seeking services were using short-acting methods and 95% were able to obtain their preferred method. The proportion of women not using a method before and after the start of the pandemic did not change in Zambia (31%), and increased from 8% to 10% in South Africa. Less than 7% of implant or IUD users in either country reported wanting removal. Among the 22 who sought removal, 10 in Zambia and 6 in South Africa successfully obtained removal. In qualitative interviews, those reporting challenges to service access specifically mentioned long queues, deprioritization of contraceptive services, lack of transportation, stock-outs, and fear of contracting COVID-19 at a facility. Key informants reported stock-outs, especially of injectables, and staff shortages as barriers. Conclusions We did not find a substantial impact of COVID-19 on contraceptive access and use among this sample; however, providers and others involved in service provision identified risks to continuity of care. As the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, it continues to be important to monitor people’s ability to access their preferred contraceptive methods.
The genome sequence of the Chalk Carpet moth, Scotopteryx bipunctaria ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)
Authors: Lees David C. , Sims Ian ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Scotopteryx bipunctaria (the Chalk Carpet moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Geometridae). The genome sequence is 326.4 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.38 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 16,083 protein coding genes.
Outcomes in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest according to prehospital advanced airway management timing: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Lee Sang-Hun , Ryoo Hyun Wook
Published: July 2024

Background: In patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), guidelines recommend advanced airway (AA) management at the advanced cardiovascular life support stage; however, the ideal timing remains controversial. Therefore, we evaluated the prognosis according to the timing of AA in patients with OHCA.Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients with OHCA at six major hospitals in Daegu Metropolitan City, South Korea, from August 2019 to June 2022. We compared groups with early and late AA and evaluated prognosis, including recovery of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), survival to discharge, and neurological evaluation, according to AA timing.Results: Of 2,087 patients with OHCA, 945 underwent early AA management and 1,142 underwent late AA management. The timing of AA management did not influence ROSC in the emergency department (5–6 minutes: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.97; p=0.914; 7–9 minutes: aOR, 1.37; p=0.223; ≥10 minutes: aOR, 1.32; p=0.345). The timing of AA management also did not influence survival to discharge (5–6 minutes: aOR, 0.79; p=0.680; 7–9 minutes: aOR, 1.04; p=0.944; ≥10 minutes: aOR, 1.86; p=0.320) or good neurological outcomes (5–6 minutes: aOR, 1.72; p=0.512; 7–9 minutes: aOR, 0.48; p=0.471; ≥10 minutes: aOR, 0.96; p=0.892).Conclusion: AA timing in patients with OHCA was not associated with ROSC, survival to hospital discharge, or neurological outcomes.
Ciencia y diplomacia: penicilina en Estados Unidos y México, 1939-1945
Authors: Giraldo Granada Emmanuel Alejandro
Published: July 2024

El descubrimiento de la penicilina representó uno de los más importantes logros científicos del siglo XX. Su incorporación en la medicina se dio en el marco de la Segunda Guerra Mundial, cuando se comprobó su eficacia en una amplia variedad de infecciones. El presente libro aborda el proceso de producción científica e industrial de la penicilina en Estados Unidos y su posterior empleo en los campos de batalla, siendo esencial para el tratamiento de los combatientes estadounidenses heridos o enfermos en los frentes de Europa y el Pacífico. Analiza, además, la recepción, desarrollo y empleo de la penicilina en México en el ámbito de las relaciones militares, comerciales y políticas efectuadas entre los gobiernos estadounidense y mexicano a causa del conflicto internacional; los estudios científicos realizados por instituciones de investigación científica mexicanas para el tratamiento de diversas enfermedades; y su importancia terapéutica en la epidemia de meningitis meningocócica ocurrida en la ciudad de San Luis Potosí a finales de 1945.