bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Natural Flavonoids: Intervention for MAO‐B Against Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Singh Ashini , Sinha Suman , Singh Niraj Kumar
Published: September 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) stands as the second most common neurological disorder after Alzheimer's disease, primarily affecting the elderly population and significantly compromising their quality of life. The precise etiology of PD remains elusive, but recent research has shed light on potential factors, including the formation of α‐synuclein aggregates, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, and dopaminergic neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) region of the brain, culminating in motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, akinesia, tremors, and rigidity. Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is an essential enzyme, comprising two isoforms, MAO‐A and MAO‐B, responsible for the oxidation of monoamines such as dopamine. Increased MAO‐B activity is responsible for decreased dopamine levels in the SNpc region of mid brain which is remarkably associated with the pathogenesis of PD‐like manifestations. Inhibitors of MAO‐B enhance striatal neuronal responses to dopamine, making them valuable in treating PD, which involves dopamine deficiency. Clinically approved MAO‐B inhibitors such as selegiline, L‐deprenyl, pargyline, and rasagiline are employed in the management of neurodegenerative conditions associated with PD. Current therapeutic interventions including MAO‐B inhibitors for PD predominantly aim to alleviate these motor symptoms but often come with a host of side effects that can be particularly challenging for the patients. While effective, they have limitations, prompting a search for alternative treatments, there is a growing interest in exploring natural products notably flavonoids as potential sources of novel MAO‐B inhibitors. In line with that, the present review focuses on natural flavonoids of plant origin that hold promise as potential candidates for the development of novel MAO‐B inhibitors. The discussion encompasses both in vitro and in vivo studies, shedding light on their potential therapeutic applications. Furthermore, this review underscores the significance of exploring natural products as valuable reservoirs of MAO‐B inhibitors, offering new avenues for drug development and addressing the pressing need for improved treatments in PD‐like pathological conditions. The authors of this review majorly explore the neuroprotective potential of natural flavonoids exhibiting notable MAO‐B inhibitory activity and additionally multi‐targeted approaches in the treatment of PD with clinical evidence and challenges faced in current therapeutic approaches.
Understanding author choices in the current conservation publishing landscape
Authors: Yoh Natalie , Holle Mukhlish Jamal Musa , Willis Jasmin , Rudd Lauren F. , Fraser Iain M. , Veríssimo Diogo
Published: September 2024

Conservation literature addresses a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary questions and benefits. Conservation science benefits most when a diverse range of authors are represented, particularly those from countries where much conservation work is focused. In other disciplines, it is well known that barriers and biases exist in the academic publishing sphere, which can affect research dissemination and an author's career development. We used a discrete choice experiment to determine how 7 journal attributes affect authors’ choices of where to publish in conservation. We targeted authors directly by contacting authors published in 18 target journals and indirectly via communication channels for conservation organizations. We only included respondents who had previously published in a conservation‐related journal. We used a multinomial logit model and a latent class model to investigate preferences for all respondents and distinct subpopulations. We identified 3 demographic groups across 1038 respondents (older authors from predominantly middle‐income countries, younger authors from predominantly middle‐income countries, and younger authors from high‐income countries) who had published in conservation journals. Each group exhibited different publishing preferences. Only 2 attributes showed a consistent response across groups: cost to publish negatively affected journal choice, including authors in high‐income countries, and authors had a consistent preference for double‐blind review. Authors from middle‐income countries were willing to pay more for society‐owned journals, unlike authors from high‐income countries. Journals with a broad geographical scope that were open access and that had relatively high impact factors were preferred by 2 of the 3 demographic groups. However, journal scope and open access were more important in dictating journal choice than impact factor. Overall, different demographics had different preferences for journals and were limited in their selection based on attributes such as open access policy. However, the scarcity of respondents from low‐income countries (2% of respondents) highlights the pervasive barriers to representation in conservation research. We recommend journals offer double‐blind review, reduce or remove open access fees, investigate options for free editorial support, and better acknowledge the value of local‐scale single‐species studies. Academic societies in particular must reflect on how their journals support conservation and conservation professionals.
Exploring Early Number Abilities With Multimodal Transformers
Authors: Hein Alice , Diepold Klaus
Published: September 2024

Early number skills represent critical milestones in children's cognitive development and are shaped over years of interacting with quantities and numerals in various contexts. Several connectionist computational models have attempted to emulate how certain number concepts may be learned, represented, and processed in the brain. However, these models mainly used highly simplified inputs and focused on limited tasks. We expand on previous work in two directions: First, we train a model end‐to‐end on video demonstrations in a synthetic environment with multimodal visual and language inputs. Second, we use a more holistic dataset of 35 tasks, covering enumeration, set comparisons, symbolic digits, and seriation. The order in which the model acquires tasks reflects input length and variability, and the resulting trajectories mostly fit with findings from educational psychology. The trained model also displays symbolic and non‐symbolic size and distance effects. Using techniques from interpretability research, we investigate how our attention‐based model integrates cross‐modal representations and binds them into context‐specific associative networks to solve different tasks. We compare models trained with and without symbolic inputs and find that the purely non‐symbolic model employs more processing‐intensive strategies to determine set size.
Fronto‐parietal activity changes associated with changes in working memory load: Evidence from simultaneous electroencephalography and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy analysis
Authors: Wang Yu , Feng Yihang , Pan Qi , Qu Qiumin , Wen Bin , Pang Fangning , Xu Jin
Published: September 2024

Working memory (WM) involves the capacity to maintain and manipulate information over short periods. Previous research has suggested that fronto‐parietal activities play a crucial role in WM. However, there remains no agreement on the effect of working memory load (WML) on neural activities and haemodynamic responses. Here, our study seeks to examine the effect of WML through simultaneous electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). In this study, a delay change detection task was conducted on 23 healthy volunteers. The task included three levels: one item, three items and five items. The EEG and fNIRS were simultaneously recorded during the task. Neural activities and haemodynamic responses at prefrontal and parietal regions were analysed using time‐frequency analysis and weighted phase‐lag index (wPLI). We observed a significant enhancement in prefrontal and parietal β suppression as WML increased. Furthermore, as WML increased, there was a notable enhancement in fronto‐parietal connectivity (FPC), as evidenced by both EEG and fNIRS. Correlation analysis indicated that as WML increased, there was a potential for enhancement of neurovascular coupling (NVC) of FPC.
Establishing Quality Indicators and Implementation Priorities for Post‐Stroke Aphasia Services Through End‐User Involvement
Authors: Shrubsole Kirstine , Stone Marissa , Cadilhac Dominique A. , Kilkenny Monique F. , Power Emma , Lynch Elizabeth , Pierce John E. , Copland David A. , Godecke Erin , Burton Bridget , Brogan Emily , Wallace Sarah J.
Published: September 2024

Background

Currently, there are no agreed quality standards for post‐stroke aphasia services. Therefore, it is unknown if care reflects best practices or meets the expectations of people living with aphasia. We aimed to (1) shortlist, (2) operationalise and (3) prioritise best practice recommendations for post‐stroke aphasia care.

Methods

Three phases of research were conducted. In Phase 1, recommendations with strong evidence and/or known to be important to people with lived experience of aphasia were identified. People with lived experience and health professionals rated the importance of each recommendation through a two‐round e‐Delphi exercise. Recommendations were then ranked for importance and feasibility and analysed using a graph theory–based voting system. In Phase 2, shortlisted recommendations from Phase 1 were converted into quality indicators for appraisal and voting in consensus meetings. In Phase 3, priorities for implementation were established by people with lived experience and health professionals following discussion and anonymous voting.

Findings

In Phase 1, 23 best practice recommendations were identified and rated by people with lived experience (n = 26) and health professionals (n = 81). Ten recommendations were shortlisted. In Phase 2, people with lived experience (n = 4) and health professionals (n = 17) reached a consensus on 11 quality indicators, relating to assessment (n = 2), information provision (n = 3), communication partner training (n = 3), goal setting (n = 1), person and family‐centred care (n = 1) and provision of treatment (n = 1). In Phase 3, people with lived experience (n = 5) and health professionals (n = 7) identified three implementation priorities: assessment of aphasia, provision of aphasia‐friendly information and provision of therapy.

Interpretation

Our 11 quality indicators and 3 implementation priorities are the first step to enabling systematic, efficient and person‐centred measurement and quality improvement in post‐stroke aphasia services. Quality indicators will be embedded in routine data collection systems, and strategies will be developed to address implementation priorities.

Patient and Public Contribution

Protocol development was informed by our previous research, which explored the perspectives of 23 people living with aphasia about best practice aphasia services. Individuals with lived experience of aphasia participated as expert panel members in our three consensus meetings. We received support from consumer advisory networks associated with the Centre for Research Excellence in Aphasia Rehabilitation and Recovery and the Queensland Aphasia Research Centre.
The utility of DNA methylation profiling in the diagnosis of un‐, de‐ and trans‐differentiated melanoma: a series of 11 cases
Authors: Erdem Zeynep Betul , Ameline Baptiste , Bovée Judith V M G , van Boven Hester , Baumhoer Daniel , Chrisinger John S A , Fritchie Karen J
Published: September 2024

Aims

Melanomas are recognised for their remarkable morphological plasticity. Some tumours may lose conventional features and/or acquire non‐melanocytic characteristics, referred to as undifferentiated, dedifferentiated and transdifferentiated melanoma. Despite this phenotypical variability, melanomas typically maintain their cancer driver aberrations, affecting genes such as BRAF, NRAS and NF1. Currently, little is known about whether the DNA methylation profile follows the loss or change of differentiation or is retained despite extensive morphological transformation.

Methods and results

In this study we analysed 11 melanoma cases, comprising six males and five females, with a median age of 67 years, including five undifferentiated, four trans‐differentiated and two de‐differentiated melanomas. Undifferentiated and trans‐differentiated tumours either arose in a patient with known melanoma and/or presented in the groin/axilla with molecular alterations consistent with melanoma. Cases with heterologous differentiation resembled chondrosarcoma, osteosarcoma, angiosarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma both morphologically and immunohistochemically, while undifferentiated tumours resembled undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. Methylome profiling was performed, and unsupervised clustering analysis revealed nine cases (five undifferentiated, three trans‐differentiated and one de‐differentiated) to cluster closely together with conventional melanomas from a reference set. Two cases clustered separately with a distinct group of conventional melanomas exhibiting H3K27me3 loss.

Conclusions

Despite loss of differentiation and phenotypical plasticity, methylation patterns seem to be retained in undifferentiated, de‐differentiated and trans‐differentiated melanomas and represent useful diagnostic tools to enhance diagnostic precision in these diagnostically challenging cases.
The emergence of epistemic agency in researching multilingually: An autoethnography of a Chinese researcher's academic publishing practices
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Zheng Yongyan
Published: September 2024

Global knowledge production and dissemination through academic publishing plays a critical role in achieving epistemic inclusion for peripheral scholars. This paper reports on an autoethnographic study of the 15 years of academic publishing efforts by the first author, Jiaqi Liu (JL). We used the theoretical lens of epistemic agency to explore how JL navigates the challenges posed by the structural constraints of academic publishing. We adopted the framework of “researching multilingually” (RM‐ly) as an analytical framework to examine the specifics of how JL exercises her epistemic agency. The findings indicate that linguistic injustice was associated with epistemic exclusion, but JL developed her epistemic agency by drawing on the intentionality, spatiality, and relationality dimensions of RM‐ly practices. She took responsibility for the advancement of her own knowledge, and generated new insights and practices in order to enhance her epistemic participation between English‐, Japanese‐, and Chinese‐mediated research worlds. The paper suggests that instead of perceiving epistemic exclusion as an insurmountable difficulty, peripheral multilingual scholars can foster epistemic agency through the alternative approach of RM‐ly and engage in multi‐directional knowledge production and dissemination.
The Janus (dual) model of immunoglobulin isotype evolution: Conservation and plasticity are the defining paradigms
Authors: Flajnik Martin F.
Published: September 2024

The study of antibodies in jawed vertebrates (gnathostomes) provides every immunologist with a bird's eye view of how human immunoglobulins (Igs) came into existence and subsequently evolved into their present forms. It is a fascinating Darwinian history of conservation on the one hand and flexibility on the other, exemplified by the Ig heavy chain (H) isotypes IgM and IgD/W, respectively. The cartilaginous fish (e.g., sharks) Igs provide a glimpse of “how everything got off the ground,” while the amphibians (e.g., the model Xenopus) reveal how the adaptive immune system made an about face with the emergence of Ig isotype switching and IgG‐like structure/function. The evolution of mucosal Igs is a captivating account of malleability, convergence, and conservation, and a call to arms for future study! In between there are spellbinding chronicles of antibody evolution in each class of vertebrates and rather incredible stories of how antibodies can adapt to occupy niches, for example, single‐domain variable regions, cold‐adapted Igs, convergent mechanisms to dampen antibody function, provision of mucosal defense, and many more. The purpose here is not to provide an encyclopedic examination of antibody evolution, but rather to hit the high points and entice readers to appreciate how things “came to be.”
Activating UCHL1 through the CRISPR activation system promotes cartilage differentiation mediated by HIF‐1α/SOX9
Authors: Shi Shanwei , Ge Yang , Yan Qiqian , Wan Shuangquan , Li Mingfei , Li Maoquan
Published: September 2024

Developing strategies to enhance cartilage differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells and preserve the extracellular matrix is crucial for successful cartilage tissue reconstruction. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) plays a pivotal role in maintaining the extracellular matrix and chondrocyte phenotype, thus serving as a key regulator in chondral tissue engineering strategies. Recent studies have shown that Ubiquitin C‐terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) is involved in the deubiquitylation of HIF‐1α. However, the regulatory role of UCHL1 in chondrogenic differentiation has not been investigated. In the present study, we initially validated the promotive effect of UCHL1 expression on chondrogenesis in adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs). Subsequently, a hybrid baculovirus system was designed and employed to utilize three CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) systems, employing dead Cas9 (dCas9) from three distinct bacterial sources to target UCHL1. Then UCHL1 and HIF‐1α inhibitor and siRNA targeting SRY‐box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) were used to block UCHL1, HIF‐1α and SOX9, respectively. Cartilage differentiation and chondrogenesis were measured by qRT‐PCR, immunofluorescence and histological staining. We observed that the CRISPRa system derived from Staphylococcus aureus exhibited superior efficiency in activating UCHL1 compared to the commonly used the CRISPRa system derived from Streptococcus pyogenes. Furthermore, the duration of activation was extended by utilizing the Cre/loxP‐based hybrid baculovirus. Moreover, our findings show that UCHL1 enhances SOX9 expression by regulating the stability and localization of HIF‐1α, which promotes cartilage production in ADSCs. These findings suggest that activating UCHL1 using the CRISPRa system holds significant potential for applications in cartilage regeneration.
Vertical mergers without foreclosure
Authors: Kadner‐Graziano Alessandro S.
Published: September 2024

The typical concern about vertical mergers is the foreclosure of downstream rivals. In a vertically related industry where downstream firms have a common supplier, margins can reveal whether upstream competition constrains that supplier. I develop a test (based on margins) to identify whether the supplier is constrained premerger and, consequently, cannot raise input prices postmerger. However, even without foreclosure in equilibrium, vertical mergers can harm consumers. Vertical mergers increase consumer prices and benefit all firms, including downstream rivals, when downstream (horizontal) competition weakens sufficiently. This theory of harm differs from typical theories, which pit the merged entity against downstream rivals.
Optimizing Byproduct Processing for Clean Label Foods: Avocado and MSM‐Tambaqui With a Focus on Zero Waste
Authors: Presenza Leandro , Teixeira Bianca Ferraz , de Freitas Fabrício Luis Felipe , Grimaldi Renato , Galvão Juliana Antunes , de Souza Vieira Thais Maria Ferreira
Published: September 2024

Agricultural byproducts, often discarded, possess significant nutritional value and technological potential. This study investigates the efficacy of ethanolic‐water extracts from avocado (Persea americana Mill.) byproducts, obtained with minimal solvent use through optimized extraction, in enhancing the stability of mechanically separated meat‐tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) burgers, a high‐fat Amazonian fish. 2000 ppm of avocado seed and peel extract were applied in shelf‐life tests conducted under refrigeration and freezing conditions to evaluate the stability of the burgers. The results demonstrated that the bioactive compounds from avocado byproducts resulted in lower TBARS values, indicating strong antioxidant properties, reduced formation of volatile nitrogen compounds, and color maintenance than sodium erythorbate. Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were preserved using bioactive ethanolic‐water extracts, and the protein content was improved compared to the control, enhancing nutritional quality. This study highlights the potential of using agri‐food byproducts, especially for application in highly perishable items such as fish, promoting the development of clean label products, thus supporting a more efficient and environmentally friendly food industry focusing on the circular economy.
Profiling of Phakopsora pachyrhizi transcriptome revealed co‐expressed virulence effectors as prospective RNA interference targets for soybean rust management
Authors: Ouyang Haibing , Sun Guangzheng , Li Kainan , Wang Rui , Lv Xiaoyu , Zhang Zhichao , Zhao Rong , Wang Ying , Shu Haidong , Jiang Haibin , Zhang Sicong , Wu Jinbin , Zhang Qi , Chen Xi , Liu Tengfei , Ye Wenwu , Wang Yan , Wang Yuanchao
Published: September 2024

Soybean rust (SBR), caused by an obligate biotrophic pathogen Phakopsora pachyrhizi, is a devastating disease of soybean worldwide. However, the mechanisms underlying plant invasion by P. pachyrhizi are poorly understood, which hinders the development of effective control strategies for SBR. Here we performed detailed histological characterization on the infection cycle of P. pachyrhizi in soybean and conducted a high‐resolution transcriptional dissection of P. pachyrhizi during infection. This revealed P. pachyrhizi infection leads to significant changes in gene expression with 10 co‐expressed gene modules, representing dramatic transcriptional shifts in metabolism and signal transduction during different stages throughout the infection cycle. Numerous genes encoding secreted protein are biphasic expressed, and are capable of inhibiting programmed cell death triggered by microbial effectors. Notably, three co‐expressed P. pachyrhizi apoplastic effectors (PpAE1, PpAE2, and PpAE3) were found to suppress plant immune responses and were essential for P. pachyrhizi infection. Double‐stranded RNA coupled with nanomaterials significantly inhibited SBR infection by targeting PpAE1, PpAE2, and PpAE3, and provided long‐lasting protection to soybean against P. pachyrhizi. Together, this study revealed prominent changes in gene expression associated with SBR and identified P. pachyrhizi virulence effectors as promising targets of RNA interference‐based soybean protection strategy against SBR.
Burden of illness and treatment attitudes among participants meeting Rome IV criteria for irritable bowel syndrome: A nationwide survey in the United States
Authors: Lacy Brian E. , Xu Yanqing , Taylor Douglas C. A. , Kosch Katherine J. , Dobrescu Rachel , Morlock Amy , Morlock Robert , Rooker Ceciel
Published: September 2024

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of gut–brain interaction characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, with patient‐perceived dissatisfaction of treatment symptom control. We assessed disease burden, satisfaction with medication use, and impact on activities, in participants with IBS with constipation (IBS‐C) and diarrhea (IBS‐D).

Methods

This study assessed data from a large, United States survey of adults querying demographics, comorbid conditions, quality of life, medication use, satisfaction with symptom control, and work productivity. Participants were grouped into the IBS‐C or IBS‐D cohort if they met Rome IV criteria, with controls matched 1:1 according to age, sex, race, region, and Charlson Comorbidity Index score. All data were self‐reported.

Key Results

Nine hundred and ten participants with IBS‐C and 669 with IBS‐D were matched to controls. The most reported symptoms were abdominal discomfort for IBS‐C and abdominal pain and abdominal discomfort for IBS‐D. Among the IBS‐C and IBS‐D cohorts, 74.2% and 65.9%, respectively, took prescription and/or over‐the‐counter medication for their symptoms. Respondents were more dissatisfied than satisfied with control of their symptoms. Respondents taking prescription medication(s) with or without over‐the‐counter medication(s) reported better symptom control than respondents only taking over‐the‐counter medications (p < 0.001). There was significantly higher mean presenteeism, work productivity loss, and daily activity impairment (p < 0.001 for all) in respondents with IBS compared with controls.

Conclusions and Inferences

This study provides insight into respondents' experiences of IBS symptoms, including the impact on daily activity, as well as satisfaction with control of symptoms and prescription and over‐the‐counter medications.
Defining lower esophageal sphincter physiomechanical states among esophageal motility disorders using functional lumen imaging probe panometry
Authors: Arndorfer Daniel , Pezzino Elena C. , Pandolfino John E. , Halder Sourav , Kahrilas Peter J. , Carlson Dustin A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) panometry assesses esophageal motility in response to controlled volumetric distension. This study aimed to describe the physiomechanical states of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in response to serial filling/emptying regimes for esophageal motility disorders.

Methods

Fourty‐five patients with absent contractile response on FLIP and diagnoses of normal motility (n = 6), ineffective esophageal motility (IEM; n = 8), scleroderma (SSc; n = 10), or nonspastic achalasia (n = 21) were included, as were 20 patient controls with normal motility on FLIP and manometry. LES diameter and pressure were measured after stepwise FLIP filling at 60 mL, 70 mL, and emptying to 60 mL with relative changes used to define physiomechanical states.

Key Results

Passive dilatation after FLIP filling occurred in 63/65 (97%) patients among all diagnoses. After FLIP emptying, passive shortening occurred in 12/14 (86%) normal motility/IEM, 10/10 (100%) SSc, 9/21(43%) achalasia, and 16/20 (80%) controls, with auxotonic relaxation seen in 2/14 (14%) normal motility/IEM, 12/21 (57%) achalasia, and 4/20 (20%) controls. After achalasia treatment (LES myotomy), 21/21 (100%) achalasia had passive shortening after FLIP emptying.

Conclusions & Inferences

Physiomechanical states of the LES can be determined via response to FLIP filling and emptying regimes. While passive shortening was the general response to FLIP emptying, auxotonic relaxation was observed in achalasia, which was disrupted by LES myotomy. Further investigation is warranted into the clinical impact on diagnosis and treatment of esophageal motility disorders.
The effect of fiber supplementation with agave fructans or psyllium plantago in symptoms of constipation and its relation with whole and regional transit time and pH
Authors: Coss‐Adame Enrique , Arenas‐Martínez Josealberto Sebastiano , García‐Cedillo María Fernanda , Nosthas Lorena Cassis , Bustillo‐Armendriz Gustavo
Published: September 2024

Background

Supplementation with the Agave tequilana Weber blue variety fructans is a feasible treatment option for functional constipation (FC). However, its effects on colonic function have not yet been studied. This study assessed whole gut transit time (WGTT) and regional transit time using a wireless motility capsule (WMC) before and after supplementation with different fiber treatments in patients with FC.

Methods

A secondary analysis was performed on data collected from a randomized, double‐blind clinical trial comparing agave fructans with psyllium plantago. WGTT, regional transit time, contractility, and pH were measured using WMC before and after fiber supplementation. Comparisons were performed using nonparametric tests.

Key Results

Twenty patients with FC were evaluated, with a median age of 39 (25–54 years), and 18 (90%) were women. Five patients were included in each intervention group. There were no changes in WGTT or regional transit times between the groups (p > 0.05). Similarly, there were no differences in the changes experienced by regional or general contractility among the groups (p > 0.05). The cecal pH profile did not differ between the groups before and after fiber supplementation (p > 0.05). The percentages of clinical responses and consistency of bowel movements between the groups were similar.

Conclusions & Inferences

FC presents a clinical response to a fiber challenge, regardless of the administered intervention. However, this response was not associated with improvement in contractility or regional transit time. We speculate that there are other mechanisms by which fiber consumption may improve FC.
The Efficacy of Modified Ilizarov Distraction‐Tension Device on Limb Wound Difficult to Cover with Skin Flaps
Authors: Zhu Yueliang , Pan Sunwen , Xu Yongqing , Shi Jian , Shi Zhen
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Closure of complex limb wounds poses challenges and requires innovative approaches. This research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a modified distraction‐tension device using Ilizarov external fixation for wound closure in challenging cases.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 43 patients with extremity wounds that were difficult to cover with skin flaps between January 2019 and December 2022. Tension‐relieving traction was applied using the Ilizarovexternal fixator apparatus, tailored to individual wound characteristics. Three types of wire–pin connections were used in this study. The distraction begins on the third postoperative day, with a speed of 0.5mm/d. Clinical wound healing scores were evaluated at 5 and 30 days postoperatively. Complications were documented following the Paley classification system.

Results

Traction using modified Ilizarovexternal fixation promoted a significant reduction in wound size. The mean traction period was 11.2 ± 7.3 days, and the mean healing duration was 17.0 ± 3.7 days. The clinical wound healing score improved from 3.7 ± 2.9 at 5 days to 1.7 ± 0.7 at 30 days postoperatively (p < 0.05). Complications were minimal, with no significant obstacles or sequelae observed. Direct closure healing was achieved in 21 cases, skin graft healing in 13 cases, and suture healing in 9 cases. No recurrences were reported. Using Paley's classified complications, there were 17 problems, 9 obstacles, and 0 sequelae.

Conclusion

The Ilizarov tension‐relieving traction shows promise in facilitating wound closure that is challenging to manage with skin flaps. The modified three types of pin–skin connection configuration could satisfy various types of wound closure.
Exploring the Changes in IL‐6 and Related Cytokines in Angiogenesis after Tibial Transverse Transplantation in Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Xu Daofei , Bai Chunxia , Hu Rong , Li Xiaoya , Guo Fudie , Zhang Dingwei , Shi Bo
Published: September 2024

Objective

The transverse tibial transfer technique is employed primarily to treat diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), aiming to enhance leg circulation and promote new blood vessel growth. This technique is also beneficial for various conditions associated with poor blood flow in the lower extremities. However, there is no clear molecular mechanism to explain the relationship between the transverse tibial transfer technique and angiogenesis in patients with diabetic foot. This study aims to preliminarily explore the change of IL‐6 and related cytokines in promoting angiogenesis during transverse tibial transplantation, providing a direction for future research.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed a study from April 2022 to November 2023 on 76 patients with severe DFUs at Wagner stages 3–4. Flow cytometry was used to detect the levels of 12 cytokines in serum before the operation and 3, 7, 14, 21, and 35 days after the operation. Ankle‐brachial index (ABI), transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2), and glycosylated hemoglobin (Hba1c) were recorded at admission and discharge. We examined the variations in cytokine levels, wound healing duration, amputation rates, infection incidence, and other key outcomes.

Results

In our investigation, a total of 76 individuals participated, comprising 49 males and 27 females. These subjects had an average age of 64.7 years, with a standard deviation of 13 years. The mean ulcer healing time was 74 ± 31 days, amputation occurred in 3 patients, pin tract infection occurred in one patient (1.3%), and incision infection occurred in one patient (1.3%). By day 35 following the surgery, both the ABI and TcPO2 values showed a significant increase from their preoperative levels. HbA1c significantly improved compared with presurgery (p < 0.001), IL‐6 levels were significantly increased compared with presurgery (p < 0.05), and then decreased.

Conclusion

The transverse tibial transfer (TTT) technique is safe and efficient for managing DFUs. The wound healing time in patients who smoke or consume alcohol is statistically significant compared with that of nonsmoking and nondrinking patients. IL‐6 exhibited substantial changes at various postoperative time points. Future research could investigate the role of IL‐6 in tibial transverse translation.
Successful utilization of topical trametinib for neurofibromatosis type I‐associated plexiform neurofibroma
Authors: Melnikov Leonid , Brichta Lars , Schloemer Nathan J.
Published: September 2024

An 11‐year‐old female with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF‐1) and history of optic glioma presented with a progressive cutaneous plexiform neurofibroma of the breast. The lesion was treated with topical application of a mitogen‐activated protein kinase inhibitor, trametinib, resulting in stable, non‐progression cutaneous plexiform neurofibroma for greater than 2 years. This case demonstrates the potential application of topical trametinib for NF1‐associated superficial cutaneous plexiform neurofibroma without the toxicities associated with systemic treatment.
Newborn Filiform Periungual Hyperkeratosis: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Cabrera Romina , Larralde Margarita , Carvajal Jaimes Andrés , Casas Gabriel
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Newborn filiform periungual hyperkeratosis (NFPH) incidence and prevalence during the neonatal period remain unknown and have not been described in current literature. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid complications during the neonatal period, such as acute paronychia.

Objective

The aim of our prospective observational study was to describe the characteristics of NFPH in neonates born in a referral hospital in Buenos Aires.

Results

One hundred patients were included. Most of them were male (60%). NFPH consists of hard, filiform elements, mostly present bilaterally in lateral nail folds. It was found in 46% of included patients. Prevalence was higher in the right hand. Due to a trend towards easy detachment and fracture, erosions were seen in several cases. Two cases of acute paronychia secondary to NFPH were diagnosed, with favorable outcomes after topical antibiotic treatment.

Conclusion

The importance of clinical examination for screening of this local predisposing factor for infection in neonatal patients is highlighted.
GhJUB1_3‐At positively regulate drought and salt stress tolerance under control of GhHB7, GhRAP2‐3 and GhRAV1 in Cotton
Authors: Ahmad Adeel , Sajjad Muhammad , Sadau Salisu Bello , Elasad Mohammad , Sun Lu , Quan Yuewei , Wu Aimin , Boying Lian , Wei Fei , Wu Hongmei , Chen Pengyun , Fu Xiaokang , Ma Liang , Wang Hantao , Wei Hengling , Yu Shuxun
Published: September 2024

Climate change severely affects crop production. Cotton is one of the primary fiber crops in the world and its production is susceptible to various environmental stresses, especially drought and salinity. Development of stress tolerant genotypes is the only way to escape from these environmental constraints. We identified sixteen homologs of the Arabidopsis JUB1 gene in cotton. Expression of GhJUB1_3‐At was significantly induced in the temporal expression analysis of GhJUB1 genes in the roots of drought tolerant (H177) and susceptible (S9612) cotton genotypes under drought. The silencing of the GhJUB1_3‐At gene alone and together with its paralogue GhJUB1_3‐Dt reduced the drought tolerance in cotton plants. The transgenic lines exhibited tolerance to the drought and salt stress as compared to the wildtype (WT). The chlorophyll and relative water contents of wildtype decreased under drought as compared to the transgenic lines. The transgenic lines showed decreased H2O2 and increased proline levels under drought and salt stress, as compared to the WT, indicating that the transgenic lines have drought and salt stress tolerance. The expression analysis of the transgenic lines and WT revealed that GAI was upregulated in the transgenic lines in normal conditions as compared to the WT. Under drought and salt treatment, RAB18 and RD29A were strongly upregulated in the transgenic lines as compared to the WT. Conclusively, GhJUB1_3‐At is not an auto activator and it is regulated by the crosstalk of GhHB7, GhRAP2‐3 and GhRAV1. GhRAV1, a negative regulator of abiotic stress tolerance and positive regulator of leaf senescence, suppresses the expression of GhJUB1_3‐At under severe circumstances leading to plant death.
Characterisation of the novel HLA‐DRB3*02:202 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Andreani Marco , Bianculli Antonio Giuseppe , Wojciechowski Elodie , Visentin Jonathan
Published: September 2024

HLA‐DRB3*02:202 differs from DRB3*02:112 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 51 in exon 2.
Characterisation of the novel HLA‐A*26:247 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Elsermans Vincent , Top Isabelle , Guidicelli Gwendaline , Visentin Jonathan
Published: September 2024

HLA‐A*26:247 differs from HLA‐A*26:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 245 in exon 4.
Artificial intelligence applied in human health technology assessment: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Komoda Denis Satoshi , Cardoso Marilia Mastrocolla de Almeida , Fernandes Brígida Dias , Visacri Marília Berlofa , Correa Carlos Roberto Silveira
Published: September 2024

Objective:

This scoping review aims to map studies that applied artificial intelligence (AI) tools to perform health technology assessment tasks in human health care. The review also aims to understand specific processes in which the AI tools were applied and to comprehend the technical characteristics of these tools.

Introduction:

Health technology assessment is a complex, time-consuming, and labor-intensive endeavor. The development of automation techniques using AI has opened up new avenues for accelerating such assessments in human health settings. This could potentially aid health technology assessment researchers and decision-makers to deliver higher quality evidence.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider studies that assesses the use of AI tools in any process of health technology assessment in human health. However, publications in which AI is a means of clinical aid, such as diagnostics or surgery will be excluded.

Methods:

A search for relevant articles will be conducted in databases such as CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Embase (Ovid), MEDLINE (PubMed), Science Direct, Computer and Applied Sciences Complete (EBSCOhost), LILACS, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection. A search for gray literature will be conducted in GreyLit.Org, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, Google Scholar, and the Google search engine. No language filters will be applied. Screening, selection, and data extraction will be performed by 2 independent reviewers. The results will be presented in graphic and tabular format, accompanied by a narrative summary.

Details of this review can be found in Open Science Framework:

osf.io/3rm8g
We Will, We Will Shock You: Adaptive Versus Conventional Functional Electrical Stimulation in Individuals Post-Stroke
Authors: Donlin Margo C. , Higginson Jill S.
Published: September 2024

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is often used in poststroke gait rehabilitation to address decreased walking speed, foot drop, and decreased forward propulsion. However, not all individuals experience clinically meaningful improvements in gait function with stimulation. Previous research has developed adaptive functional electrical stimulation (AFES) systems that adjust stimulation timing and amplitude at every stride to deliver optimal stimulation. The purpose of this work was to determine the effects of a novel AFES system on functional gait outcomes and compare them to the effects of the existing FES system. Twenty-four individuals with chronic poststroke hemiparesis completed 64-min walking trials on an adaptive and fixed-speed treadmill with no stimulation, stimulation from the existing FES system, and stimulation from the AFES system. There was no significant effect of stimulation condition on walking speed, peak dorsiflexion angle, or peak propulsive force. Walking speed was significantly faster and peak propulsive force was significantly larger on the adaptive treadmill (ATM) than the fixed-speed treadmill (both p < 0.0001). Dorsiflexor stimulation timing was similar between stimulation conditions, but plantarflexor stimulation timing was significantly improved with the AFES system compared to the FES system (p = 0.0059). Variability between and within subjects was substantial, and some subjects experienced clinically meaningful improvements in walking speed, peak dorsiflexion angle, and peak propulsive force. However, not all subjects experienced benefits, suggesting that further research to characterize which subjects exhibit the best instantaneous response to FES is needed to optimize poststroke gait rehabilitation using FES.
Time domain characterization of nonstationary low-Mach number aeroacoustic sources using principal component analysis
Authors: Swann Mitchell J. , Yoas Zachary W. , Nickels Adam S. , Krane Michael H. , Harris Jeff R.
Published: September 2024

This paper presents the use of principal component analysis (PCA) for time domain microphone array denoising to characterize an impulsive aeroacoustic source, which is illustrated with the aeroacoustic emission caused by a vortex ring/edge interaction. Prior studies have used signal processing approaches that required assumptions about the source directivity or user intervention at low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) conditions. In this context, PCA, a matrix decomposition tool which identifies the most common features across an ensemble of observations, provides a data-driven (hands-off) approach to signal processing. For microphone array time series, particular attention is paid to the temporal alignment of the signals to facilitate PCA. A time domain approach is necessary when sources are impulsive and nonstationary. Two such signal arrangements are discussed in this work. Results from this method are in good agreement with theory, validated by prior results using an ensemble averaging approach requiring user support. Furthermore, the results of this method are improved when compared to the ensemble averaging approach without user intervention. A SNR limit is identified where PCA becomes less effective for the vortex/edge interaction problem. This SNR limit is intended to aid in the design of similar future experiments.
Methodology for Assessing Infant (0–2 Years) Movement Using Accelerometers: A Scoping Review
Authors: Dinkel Danae , Rech John P. , Chaudhary Priyanka , Thelagothoti Rama Krishna , Youn Jon , Ali Hesham , Schenkelberg Michaela , Knarr Brian
Published: September 2024

Measuring infants’ (0–2 years) physical activity is a growing area of research globally. Accelerometers have been widely used to measure older children’s and adults’ physical activity. An increasing number of studies have used accelerometers as a way to measure infant physical activity, which has resulted in the application of a variety of methods. The purpose of this scoping review is to synthesize the published literature on accelerometer methodology to measure daytime physical activity among infants (0–2 years). A systematic search of five online databases using carefully selected key terms was conducted to compile relevant literature. The results of the online database searches were screened for inclusion in the scoping review. In total, 105 articles met the inclusion criteria of using accelerometers to measure infants’ physical activity. The methodologies used in the included studies were categorized by age groups: <1 month, 1–6 months, >6–12 months, >12–18 months, >18–24 months, and longitudinal (i.e., multiple measurements taken across the previously mentioned age groups). Accelerometry methodologies (e.g., wear location, number of devices, device initialization) and study design qualities (e.g., outcome of interest and location of data collection) varied widely between and within the various age groups. Accelerometer brand or type of device demonstrated greatest variation across included studies. However, ActiGraph devices to measure physical activity within free-living environments were the most common. This review provides evidence of the need for researchers to ensure the methodology used is reported in detail in order to help develop methodology that can accurately assess infant daytime movement.
Effect of Accelerometer Cut-Points on Preschoolers’ Physical Activity and Sedentary Time: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Phillips Sophie M. , Clevenger Kimberly A. , Bruijns Brianne A. , Tucker Patricia , Vanderloo Leigh M. , Loh Aidan , Naveed Manahil , Bourke Matthew
Published: September 2024

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare estimated levels of physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (ST) of preschool-aged children (3–5 years old) based on different published accelerometer cut-points used in this age group. Four electronic databases were searched to identify studies estimating levels of PA or ST (ST, light PA [LPA], and moderate to vigorous PA [MVPA]) using multiple accelerometer cut-points, in a sample of preschool-aged children. Data were extracted and risk of bias assessed for all included studies. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate pooled effects for unique combinations of accelerometer cut-points for each outcome. Twenty-four studies, reporting on 18 unique samples, were included. Results demonstrated substantial variability in estimates of PA and ST across different cut-points, with significant differences in estimates of the behaviors between most cut-points. Few cut-points showed similarity; Evenson and Pate were some of the most similar for the assessment of PA and ST of young children. However, when calculating the differences in ST, LPA, and MVPA between the cut-points, the Evenson cut-point estimates approximately 60 min more LPA per day and the Pate 148CPM cut-points estimates 23 and 37 min more ST and MVPA each day, respectively. Given that these were the most similar estimates, this highlights the magnitude of differences between the accelerometer cut-points when estimating preschool-aged children’s movement behavior. This review provides an illustration on the limitations of accelerometer cut-points used to determine PA and ST of preschool-aged children; in that they often produce substantially different estimates. This review provides a compelling rationale as to why further research moving toward alternative data processing methodologies is required, including to identify an optimal approach to estimating movement behavior outcomes in young children that considers congruence with past and future research.