bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration and implication of green macroalgal proliferation in the Nanhui-east-tidal-flat: an investigation of post-reclamation mudflat wetlands
Authors: Liu Jinlin , Xia Zhangyi , Zeng Yinqing , Xia Jing , He Peimin
Published: January 2025

The Nanhui-east-tidal-flat (NETF), the largest marginal shoal in the Yangtze River of China, is significantly impacted by human activities. Prior research has not detected the presence of green macroalgae in the NETF, nor has it explored the effects of reclamation on the distribution of macroalgae. However, in 2021, a small-scale aggregated attached algal mats emerged in the NETF, potentially signaling the onset of a green tide and necessitating vigilant monitoring. Morphological and molecular biological identification analysis revealed that all collected green macroalgae were attributed to a single dominant species, Ulva prolifera, characterized by broad blades and prominent air bladders, colonizing various substrates. The attached U. prolifera exhibited continuous growth from March to May 2021, peaking at a wet weight of 373.6229 g/m² and a dry weight of 72.7904 g/m² on May 1, 2021, within the accessible sampling period. The rapid proliferation of the “opportunistic” Ulva was facilitated by high-level eutrophication and favorable environmental conditions. Furthermore, six potential germplasm sources of U. prolifera are summarized. The dominance of Ulva in the intertidal zone often indicates high eutrophication and deteriorating ecological conditions. With long-term reclamation and repeated ecological restoration projects, the intertidal vegetation is subjected to a vicious cycle of growth and destruction. Therefore, it is important to recognize that U. prolifera germplasm (macroalgae and micropropagules) will persist over the long term, and mudflats with monotonous and eutrophic habitats are highly likely to experience future large-scale algal blooms. Notably, a small-scale floating green tide was observed in the sea area near NETF in July 2023, and such concerns are not unfounded. This study conducts foundational scientific research on the attached green tide algae, a type of research that is relatively scarce in other marine areas. Most studies tend to initiate foundational research only after the outbreak of green tides, lacking early background data from the marine environment, thus rendering this study of significant reference value. Concurrently, this study emphasizes that field surveys remain an essential approach for conducting foundational scientific research on green tide algae in the NETF region, with the need to select appropriate research methods based on the occurrence and development of algal mats, as required by the situation. Importantly, this study reflects the stability of marine ecosystems as a prerequisite for modern ocean management and services, provides new perspectives on the occurrence and development of green tides, and highlights potential ecological risk factors that should be considered in the implementation of intertidal construction projects.
Diversity and seasonal variation of zooplankton community in a large deep-water reservoir of Eastern China using eDNA and morphological methods
Authors: Hao Lei , Xu Xinting , Zhou Yan , Liu Dan , Shao Jianqiang , Pan Jiayong , He Guangxi , Hu Zhongjun , Liu Qigen
Published: January 2025

Monitoring zooplankton diversity and community dynamics is essential for understanding ecological processes within freshwater ecosystems. Environmental DNA (eDNA) has been increasingly employed in this field due to its efficiency and accuracy. However, its potential applications in freshwater ecosystems require further validation. In this study, we evaluated the performance of 18S rRNA and COI primers for freshwater zooplankton diversity monitoring and systematically compared the selected primers with the microscopy method in Qiandao Lake, China. Our results indicated that the COI primer marker (mlCOIintF/jgHCO2198) was more suitable for freshwater zooplankton diversity monitoring than 18S rRNA. The eDNA method identified a total of 102 species, whereas the microscopy method detected 111 species. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis and nonparametric multivariate statistical tests revealed that both abundance and biomass species compositions determined by microscopy differed significantly from those based on eDNA reads. Both methods detected significant seasonal changes in zooplankton community species composition, while eDNA provided a comprehensive view of the complex interactions within the community. Both methods indicate that rotifers are the primary group driving seasonal changes in the zooplankton community. The eDNA identified more environmental factors associated with seasonal changes in zooplankton communities than microscopy, including dissolved oxygen (DO), nephelometric turbidity unit (NTU), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and total phosphorus (TP). The eDNA reads of rotifer and crustacean plankton increased linearly with their morphological abundance but not with biomass. Furthermore, combining morphological abundance and biomass as predictor variables for eDNA reads moderately enhanced the explanatory power compared to using them individually. Although eDNA cannot yet replace morphological methods, its efficiency and sensitivity make it a valuable complementary tool for zooplankton monitoring, with considerable potential for future applications.
Enhancing individuals’ engagement in marine recreational sport activities: from an institutional perspective
Authors: Shou Minghuan , Xu Jiawei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Encouraging consumer participation in marine recreational sport activities is recognized as a key strategy for boosting both local and regional economies. However, compared to other traditional outdoor activities, participation rates in marine recreation remain relatively low. Two major barriers to participation are consumers' concerns about whether marine recreational sport activities are interesting and suitable for themselves, which can be summarized into product quality uncertainty and product fit uncertainty.

Methods

To address this issue, this paper, grounded in institutional theory, investigates how different institutional environments influence consumers' product certainty and their behavioral engagement in marine recreational sport activities—an area previously underexplored in the literature.

Results and discussions

By collecting 292 survey responses and utilizing ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis, we found that both product quality certainty and product fit certainty have a significant positive effect on consumers' behavioral engagement. Additionally, both the regulatory-normative and cognitive institutional environments were shown to significantly enhance consumers' product quality and fit certainty. Moreover, age was found to moderate these effects, with a positive influence on the relationship between the regulatory-normative environment and product certainty, while only affecting the relationship between the cognitive institutional environment and product fit certainty.
A national framework for transition to precision medicine
Authors: Karimi Esboei Samaneh , Ghazinoory Sepehr , Saghafi Fatemeh
Published: January 2025

Precision medicine (PM) is transforming healthcare by offering tailored interventions that address individual variability, transforming patient care and outcomes. PM is based on providing health-oriented services according to genetic characteristics, individual and family medical history, lifestyle, place of residence, and other personalized characteristics. This study aims to establish an appropriate framework for implementing PM in Iran. First, the global transition framework to PM was drawn by a systematic review, and then a framework for transition to PM in Iran was drawn by a case study through semi-structured interviews, an expert panel, and an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) questionnaire. The statistical sample of the study comprised PM specialists, researchers, and patients whose PM plays a significant role in their diagnosis and treatment. The sampling method was non-random with a combination of purposive and snowball techniques. The results from the systematic review show that for the transition to PM, we must first move from common medicine to stratified medicine and then PM. Moving toward PM requires strong economic, social, political, institutional, industrial, and, most importantly, technological infrastructures. These infrastructures will vary from country to country. In general, coexistence between the health system and PM technologies did not exist in the beginning, but it will emerge with its development. The resistance of the health system to accepting PM will gradually decrease. Furthermore, the government plays a key role in the early phases, while market and PM demand become more prominent during the development. New health actors will also develop PM, and out-of-date actors will be deleted or replaced. But moving toward PM is slightly different in Iran, particularly in the middle phases of transition.
Paraneoplastic pemphigus involved oral mucosa only: a case report and literature review
Authors: Yu Xixi , Yang Mei , Wang Caixia , Wang Wanchun , Zhu Tingting , Liu Yang
Published: January 2025

Paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP) is a rare and potentially fatal autoimmune disease that primarily affects the mucocutaneous tissues. Here we present the clinical features of a patient with the lichenoid variant of PNP involving the oral mucosa only. The patient exhibited clinical manifestations resembling both lichen planus and pemphigus, yet these lesions remained unresponsive to corticosteroid therapy. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan revealed Castleman disease. Following surgical removal of the tumor, the patient’s oral mucosa healed completely, with no recurrence observed in a 4-year follow-up period. These findings emphasize the importance of considering PNP as a potential diagnosis in patients with refractory oral erosions displaying lichen planus-like and pemphigus-like features, particularly when unresponsive to corticosteroid therapy. A thoracic-abdominal-pelvic CT scan is recommended to facilitate accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Fortifying plant fortresses: siderophores in defense against Cercospora leaf spot disease in Vigna radiata L.
Authors: Kamath Anushree , Sharma Abhishek , Shukla Arpit , Parmar Paritosh , Patel Dhara
Published: January 2025

Siderophores, specialized iron-chelating molecules produced by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D5, were investigated for their role in enhancing plant defense mechanisms against Cercospora canescens in mung bean (Vigna radiata L.). Siderophores were extracted and purified using Amberlite XAD-4 and applied to plants at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 µg/mL, followed by pathogen inoculation. The treatments significantly influenced enzymatic activities and defense-related gene expression. On Day 6, peroxidase (POD) activity reached its highest value of 0.563 in the SP15 (siderophore + pathogen at 15 µg/mL) treatment, with S15 (siderophore-only at 15 µg/mL) showing a lower but significant increase of 0.453, while control groups remained unchanged. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity peaked in SP15 (0.10 U/mL), followed by S15 (0.08 U/mL), highlighting the role of these treatments in enhancing stress responses. Chitinase activity was significantly elevated in SP15 on Day 6, with a sustained response through Day 8, while no significant change was observed in the control group. Total phenolic content was highest in SP15 (100 µg/mL), showing a a ramified immune response whereas S15 recorded 80 µg/mL, significantly above the control. Gene expression analysis further demonstrated the effectiveness of siderophore and siderophore + pathogen treatments. Catalase expression was upregulated by 21.1-fold in siderophore-only treatment and amplified to 25.9-fold in SP15. Epoxide hydrolase (EH) gene expression increased by 77.3-fold in S15 and further synergized to over 90-fold in SP15. Similarly, PR10 expression showed moderate upregulation in S15 and significantly higher levels in SP15, reflecting enhanced pathogen defense. Calmodulin (CAL) gene expression was moderately regulated in S15 but significantly amplified in SP15. These findings underscore the dual role of siderophores in nutrient acquisition and as potent elicitors of plant defenses, highlighting their potential as bio-stimulants. Field trials are essential to validate these results under natural conditions and optimize their use in agriculture.
Untargeted urine metabolomics reveals dynamic metabolic differences and key biomarkers across different stages of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Feng Xiaoya , Zhao Shenglan
Published: January 2025

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) often serving as its precursor stage. Early intervention at the MCI stage can significantly delay AD onset.

Methods

This study employed untargeted urine metabolomics, with data obtained from the MetaboLights database (MTBLS8662), combined with orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) to examine metabolic differences across different stages of AD progression. A decision tree approach was used to identify key metabolites within significantly enriched pathways. These key metabolites were then utilized to construct and validate an AD progression prediction model.

Results

The OPLS-DA model effectively distinguished the metabolic characteristics at different stages. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that Drug metabolism was significantly enriched across all stages, while Retinol metabolism was particularly prominent during the transition stages. Key metabolites such as Theophylline, Vanillylmandelic Acid (VMA), and Adenosine showed significant differencesdifferencesin the early stages of the disease, whereas 1,7-Dimethyluric Acid, Cystathionine, and Indole exhibited strong predictive value during the MCI to AD transition. These metabolites play a crucial role in monitoring AD progression. Predictive models based on these metabolites demonstrated excellent classification and prediction capabilities.

Conclusion

This study systematically analyzed the dynamic metabolic differences during the progression of AD and identified key metabolites and pathways as potential biomarkers for early prediction and intervention. Utilizing urinary metabolomics, the findings provide a theoretical basis for monitoring AD progression and contribute to improving prevention and intervention strategies, thereby potentially delaying disease progression.
Influence of strength and power training on the rate of force development, peak force and functional mobility in elderly people with Parkinson's disease: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Amaral Felipe Késia Maísa do , Yamada Patrícia de Aguiar , Meneghetti Tamires , Faganello-Navega Flávia Roberta
Published: January 2025

Objective

To analyze the influence of lower limb muscle strength and muscle power training on rate of force development (RFD) and peak force (PF) in elderly people with Parkinson's disease (PD), as well as the effect of these training sessions influence on the functional mobility (FM) of this population.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled clinical trial and registered on the virtual platform for registration of experimental and non-experimental studies “Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC)”. Thirty four elderly people of both genders without and with PD were divided into four groups: strength training control (GSC, n = 8); potency training control (GPC), n = 9; subjects with PD submitted to strength training (GSPD, n = 8); subjects with PD submitted to potency training (GPPD, n = 9). GSC and GPC consisted of with no history of neurological diseases. PF and RFD in the first 50 and 200 milliseconds (ms) were determined. FM was also assessed using the following tests: gait speed test (GS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS); parallel feet on a force platform. Next, the participants underwent lower limbs muscle strength or muscle power training for eight consecutive weeks twice a week and were then re-evaluated.

Results

The repeated measures ANOVA test showed a significant difference for PF, RFD and FM regardless of training type.

Conclusion

The proposed muscle strength and muscle power training protocols influenced the increase in RFD, PF and FM of all participants; however, the increase in RFD in the first 200 ms was more pronounced in the groups submitted to power training and the increase in PF was more pronounced in the groups submitted to strength training.
RT-ring: a small wearable device for tremulous Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in primary care
Authors: Buonocore Jolanda , Vescio Basilio , De Maria Marida , Crasà Marianna , Nisticò Rita , Arcuri Pier P. , Cascini Giuseppe L. , Latorre Anna , Quattrone Aldo , Quattrone Andrea
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Differential diagnosis of rest tremor (RT) disorders is challenging, often requiring 123I-ioflupane single-photon-emission-computed tomography (DaTscan), an expensive technique not available worldwide. In the current study, we investigated the performance of a new wearable mobile device termed “RT-ring” in predicting DaTscan result in patients presenting with RT based on rest tremor inertial features.

Methods

Consecutive RT patients underwent RT-ring tremor analysis, surface electromyography (sEMG), and DaTscan. The RT-ring is a miniaturized mobile device that uses machine learning based on inertial tremor data to estimate the RT pattern. This electrophysiologic tremor feature has proven to accurately predict DaTscan result. The primary outcome was the RT-ring’s performance in distinguishing patients with and without striatal dopaminergic deficit.

Results

Sixty-seven RT patients were enrolled, including 42 patients with striatal dopaminergic deficit and 25 with normal DaTscan. The RT-ring showed 85.0% sensitivity, 90.9% specificity, and 87.9% balanced accuracy in predicting DaTscan result, and demonstrated 96.8% agreement with sEMG in RT pattern classification.

Conclusion

The RT-ring is a promising, non-invasive, user-friendly, wearable mobile device for supporting the diagnosis of tremulous Parkinson’s disease in primary care settings, especially in low-income countries with limited access to dopamine imaging.
Research progress in unilateral moyamoya disease
Authors: Hao Xiaokuan , Tan Cunxin , Liu Ziqi , Tie Yang , Wang Yanru , He Shihao , Duan Ran , Wang Rong
Published: January 2025

Unilateral moyamoya disease (U-MMD) is a chronic vascular disease characterized by progressive stenosis and occlusion of the terminal end of the internal carotid artery and its main branches, resulting in the appearance of moyamoya-like blood vessels at the base of the brain. The etiology of U-MMD is unknown, it accounts for 9.7–17.8% of all moyamoya disease, and the family incidence is 5.5–13.3%. The clinical characteristics are similar to those of typical moyamoya disease, but there are some differences. U-MMD can progress to bilateral moyamoya disease with a median probability of 29.01% (ranging from 6.3 to 58.8%), and there are many risk factors that promote its development. Surgical treatment can effectively reduce the incidence of ischemic stroke and improve prognosis. However, the timing and indications for surgery require further investigation. This article reviews the latest research progress on the etiology, epidemiology, clinical and radiological characteristics, progression, treatment, and prognosis of U-MMD.
RIPK1 expression and inhibition in tauopathies: implications for neuroinflammation and neuroprotection
Authors: Silva-Llanes Ignacio , Madruga Enrique , Martínez Ana , Lastres-Becker Isabel
Published: January 2025

Tauopathies are a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the alteration/aggregation of TAU protein. One of the main challenges of these diseases is that they have neither biomarkers nor pharmacological targets to stop the neurodegenerative process. Apart from the neurodegenerative process, tauopathies are also characterized by a chronic low-grade neuroinflammation process, where the receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) protein plays an essential role. Our research aimed to explore the role of RIPK1 in various tauopathies. We examined mouse models of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), as well as brain tissue samples from patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a primary form of 4R tauopathy, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which is considered a secondary tauopathy. Our findings show elevated levels of RIPK1 mRNA levels across various forms of tauopathies, in both mouse models and human tissue samples associated with primary and secondary TAU-related disorders. Furthermore, we investigated the potential of using a RIPK1 inhibitor, known as GSK2982772, in a mouse model as a novel treatment strategy for FTD. The data showed that GSK2982772 treatment effectively reduced the reactive astrocyte response triggered by TAUP301L overexpression. However, this RIPK1 inhibitor failed to protect against the neurodegeneration caused by elevated TAUP301L levels in the hippocampal region. These results suggest that although inhibiting RIPK1 activity may help reduce TAU-related astrogliosis in the brain, the complexity of the inflammatory pathways involved could explain the absence of neuroprotective effects against TAU-induced neurodegeneration.
Female urethral diverticular carcinoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Li Dan , Meng Fan Hua , Yang Xu
Published: January 2025

Objective

To investigate the etiology, clinical manifestations, treatment methods, and prognosis of urethral diverticulum cancer to enhance understanding of this disease.

Methods

This paper reports a case of urethral diverticulum cancer with “hematuria and dysuria” as the main clinical manifestations. The case is discussed in conjunction with relevant literature.

Results

The patient initially presented to the gynecology department due to postmenopausal bleeding but was not diagnosed with the disease. Subsequently, the patient developed hematuria and dysuria and was referred to the urology department. MRI indicated urethral diverticulum-like changes with suspected tumorous lesions. Cystourethroscopic biopsy confirmed urethral diverticulum cancer. The patient underwent urethrectomy, and postoperative pathological diagnosis was poorly differentiated urothelial adenocarcinoma.

Conclusion

Urethral diverticulum cancer is a rare and highly aggressive malignant tumor of the urethra with a poor prognosis. The onset of urethral diverticulum cancer is concealed, and its clinical manifestations are nonspecific and diverse. Preoperative diagnosis is challenging, and imaging studies and cystourethroscopy are the primary preoperative diagnostic methods for urethral diverticulum cancer. Pathology and immunohistochemistry serve as the basis for confirmation of diagnosis. Currently, there is no unified treatment protocol for female urethral diverticulum cancer internationally. For female patients with urethral diverticulum cancer without distant metastasis, surgery remains the primary treatment. For patients with distant metastasis, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy may be considered.Genetic testing and targeted immunotherapy offer new approaches for future treatment.
Uridine-cytidine kinase 2 is correlated with immune, DNA damage repair and promotion of cancer stemness in pan-cancer
Authors: Tian Jinlong , Li Yanlei , Tong Yu , Zhang Yuan , Zhao Tingxiao , Kang Yao , Bi Qing
Published: January 2025

Background

UCK2 (Uridine-Cytidine Kinase 2) is a promising prognostic marker for malignant tumors, but its association with immune infiltration and cancer stemness in pan-cancer remains to be fully understood. we find that gene UCK2 is closed related to RNA stemness scores (RNAss) and DNA stemness scores (DNAss), which is measured the tumor stemness. We also discover an association between UCK2 expression and immune cells by CIBERSORT algorithm, ESTIMATE algorithm and ssGSEA algorithm, especially, related to T cell, monocytes, mast cells, and macrophages. This study aims to shed light on the role and possible mechanism of UCK2 in pan-cancer.

Methods

We used the R programming language for pan-cancer bulk sequencing data analysis, which were obtained from the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) datasets. UCSC database is a very useful for explore data from TCGA and other cancer genomics datasets, The data we explored at the UCK2 transcriptome level came from TCGA data in the UCSC database. We explored differential UCK2 expression between tumor and normal samples. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was utilized to validate the expression of UCK2 in different types cancers using tumor tissue chips. The correlations of UCK2 with prognosis, genetic instability, DNA repair, cancer stem cell characteristics, and immune cell infiltration were investigated. Furthermore, single-cell datasets, acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, were used to validate the relationship between UCK2 and immune cells. GEO is a famous public genomics database supporting freely disseminates microarray data. Finally, we analyzed the correlation between UCK2 and drug sensitivity.

Results

UCK2 expression was observed to be high in most cancers and was remarkably related to the prognosis of pan-cancers. We found that the increased UCK2 expression was associated with higher genetic instability. Additionally, positive relationships were observed between UCK2 expression and mismatch repair genes, homologous recombination repair genes, and cancer stemness across different cancer types. There were significant correlations between UCK2 and T cells, monocytes, mast cells, and macrophages. Moreover, as expected, the immune checkpoint human leucocyte antigen (HLA) was found to be negatively related to UCK2. Similarly, UCK2 was also observed to have a negative association with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes. We noted that UCK2 had significant correlations with the sensitivity to various anti-cancer drug.

Conclusion

We have observed that UCK2 plays pivotal roles in prognosis and tumor immunity, and it is associated with DNA repair and cancer stemness. The UCK2 gene exhibits a strong correlation with the immune checkpoints HLA. This study highlights its potential impact on drug sensitivity.
A telomere-related signature for predicting prognosis and assessing immune microenvironment in osteosarcoma
Authors: Li Shihao , Zhang Lina , Zhang Haiyang
Published: January 2025

Objective

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer with a high propensity for local invasion and metastasis. An increasing number of research studies show that telomeres play an important role in the occurrence and development of cancer. Thus, we established a telomere-related signature in osteosarcoma to comprehensively evaluate the pathogenic roles of telomeres in this disease.

Methods

The data on osteosarcoma were collected from the TARGET and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. First, we constructed a telomere-related signature using univariate and LASSO Cox regression analyses. Subsequently, we analyzed the prognostic value, functional annotation, immune microenvironment, and cell communication patterns of the telomere-related signature in osteosarcoma via comprehensive bioinformatics analyses. Cell proliferation was analyzed using the CCK-8 assay, and cell migration and invasion capabilities were evaluated using the Transwell assay.

Results

Based on the SP110, HHAT, TUBB, MORC4, TERT, PPARG, MAP3K5, PAGE5, MAP7, and CAMK1G, a telomere-related signature was built in osteosarcoma patients. The telomere-related signature could effectively predict the prognosis of osteosarcoma patients. The osteosarcoma patients in the high TELscore group exhibited poor prognosis. In addition, the telomere-related signature demonstrated predictive value for the immune microenvironment and drug sensitivity in osteosarcoma. Finally, we discovered significant reduction in MAP7 expression in osteosarcoma cells, and patients with low MAP7 expression had poor prognosis. Moreover, the overexpression of MAP7 significantly reduced cell proliferation, the ability of cell migration, and invasion in osteosarcoma cells.

Conclusion

A telomere-related signature was constructed in osteosarcoma patients, offering predictive values into prognosis, the immune microenvironment, and drug sensitivity. Moreover, MAP7 might serve as a prognostic marker for osteosarcoma patients.
Case report: Dysphonia associated with high-dose cytarabine therapy
Authors: Ma Ling , Huang Niya , Zhang Haixi , Liu Jia , Zhang Zhiqing
Published: January 2025

Cytarabine is widely used in the treatment of hematological malignancies. Its common toxicities include myelosuppression and gastrointestinal disturbances. Additionally, it can cause central nervous system (CNS) symptoms, which include hoarseness, ataxic tremor, ataxic gait, nystagmus, dysmetria, and dysdiadochokinesia. In this article, we present the first case report of dysphonia, absent of CNS symptoms, induced by high-dose cytarabine (HiDAC) in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia. The patient’s voice began to change 3 days following the first cycle of HiDAC chemotherapy, and dysphonia recurred upon the reintroduction of HiDAC. To rule out other potential causes, a thorough examination and detailed medical history review were conducted, excluding factors such as vocal abuse, infection, effects of other medications, and underlying diseases as contributors to the dysphonia. The patient was diagnosed with HiDAC-induced dysphonia. This toxic effect was self-limiting, and the patient recovered in 10–15 days. Chemotherapy-induced dysphonia is a rarely reported and easily overlooked side effect. This adverse reaction is typically temporary and non-life-threatening; however, it substantially diminishes quality of life and may occasionally necessitate the discontinuation or postponement of chemotherapy. Physicians should be aware of this complication when administering chemotherapeutic agents.
Comprehensive chemical and bioactive investigation of Chinese peony flower: a case of valorization of by-products as a new food ingredient from Chinese herb
Authors: Peng Meng-ling , Gong Ming-Jiong , Zhang Jing , Gadetskaya Anastassiya V. , Liang Qian-Wen , He Pei-Wen , Qiu Xiao-Hui , Huang Zhi-Hai , Xu Wen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In the present study, the flower of Chinese peony (CPF), major waste by-product of Chinese Herb Radix paeoniae, was comprehensively investigated for the first time.

Methods

A validated UHPLC Orbitrap Mass spectrometry combined a three-levels characterization strategy were used to analyze CPF samples from four representative cultivars. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were analyzed using RAW264.7 cells, and DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and ORAC antioxidant assays.

Results

A total of 150 chemical components were identified in CPF, among them, more than 50 components were reported from this species for the first time, with potential new chemicals reported. 67 quantified or semi-quantified targeted metabolomics analysis indicated a clear distinction between flower parts and four cultivars. CPF demonstrated significant antioxidant activities and displayed anti-inflammatory effects by reducing nitric oxide, IL-6, and TNF-a release in LPS-induced macrophages. Correlation analysis highlighted a strong positive correlation between total phenolic content and DPPH ABTS, and FRAP antioxidant activities.

Discussion

The present study is the first to comprehensively investigate the chemical profile and bioactivities of CPF, which provide insights into further understanding of its health-promoting potential.
Abscission zone metabolism impacts pre- and post-harvest fruit quality: a very attaching story
Authors: Tranbarger Timothy J. , Tadeo Francisco R.
Published: January 2025

The function of abscission zones (AZs) determines the timing of fleshy fruit abscission, with important consequences not only for the optimal fruit harvest, but also on the overall final fruit quality. In this context, chemical treatments are commonly used at different stages of fruit development to control fruit abscission, which can also have positive or negative effects on fruit quality. In the current review, we examine commonly used chemicals that affect the metabolic activity in the AZs of fleshy fruit, in addition to their effects on fruit quality characteristics. The main hormone metabolism and signaling in the AZ include that of ethylene, auxin, abscisic acid and jasmonates, and the molecular components that are involved are covered and discussed, in addition to how these hormones work together to regulate AZ activity and hence, affect fruit quality. We focus on studies that have provided new insight into possible protein complexes that function in the AZ, including multiple MADS-box transcription factors, with potential overlapping regulatory roles which exist between AZ development, ethylene production, AZ activation, fruit ripening and overall fruit quality. The view of the AZ as a cross roads where multiple pathways and signals are integrated is discussed.
Exploring the relationship between employee engagement and counterproductive work behaviour
Authors: Mvuyana Sphindile , Nzimakwe Thokozani Ian , Utete Reward
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Despite the cumulative increase in counterproductive work behaviour in various organisations which have ripple effects on general organisational performance, little is known on how employee engagement relates to counterproductive work behaviour. The purpose of the study was to explore the relationship between employee engagement and counterproductive work behaviours of employees at the leading university in South Africa.

Methods

The study employed qualitative approach and structured interviews were used to gather data from the both academic and professional services staff. The collected data from fifteen (15) respondents were analysed using thematic analysis, leading to the identification of key themes and patterns.

Results

Based on the findings, it became evident that there is an inverse relationship between employee engagement and counterproductive work behaviour. The study also revealed lack of an effective probationary period, unequal treatment of academic and professional services staff in terms of retention strategies, and insufficient attention given to employee engagement were among the primary factors contributing to disengagement within the institution.

Discussion

The study concluded that there is a pressing need for change and the implementation of new systems to enhance employee engagement at the organisation. Management should also establish a probationary period for new employees, providing sufficient time for them to acclimate to their roles and allowing line managers and HR to identify and address training needs. Management should enhance communication and feedback channels between employees and management to foster a sense of inclusiveness and ensure that employee concerns are heard and addressed.
Physiology mechanisms of exercise for PTSD: a narrative review
Authors: Dong Hongding , Lin Zhiyi
Published: January 2025

In at-risk societies, the population of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) incidence is gradually expanding from veterans to the general public. In the face of the high incidence of PTSD, exercise therapy, as an economical and maneuverable treatment, has not received the attention it deserves. In this paper, the literature on PTSD symptom improvement through comb-climbing exercise interventions found that performing long-term exercise can achieve significant improvement in PTSD symptoms by modulating the central nervous system, autonomic nervous system, and immune system at the physiological level. Aerobic exercise (running, walking) is beneficial to the central nervous system and immune system; anaerobic exercise positively affects the autonomic nervous system, including resistance or strength endurance training; yoga, which focuses on flexibility and balance training, has a positive effect on the immune system. Future research should explore the neutral and negative effects and mechanisms of exercise on PTSD interventions. Expand more empirical studies in special occupational populations. And implement longitudinal intervention studies with PTSD patients to gain an in-depth understanding of PTSD intervention effects.
Pituitary adenylyl cyclase-activating polypeptide modulates the stress response: the involvement of different brain areas and microglia
Authors: Singh Anika , Shim Paul , Naeem Sadaf , Rahman Shafiqur , Lutfy Kabirullah
Published: January 2025

Stress is necessary for survival. However, chronic unnecessary stress exposure leads to cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and neuropsychiatric disorders. Thus, understanding the mechanisms involved in the initiation and maintenance of the stress response is essential since it may reveal the underpinning pathophysiology of these disorders and may aid in the development of medication to treat stress-mediated diseases. Pituitary adenylyl cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and its receptors (PAC1, VPAC1 and VPAC2) are expressed in the hypothalamus and other brain areas as well as in the adrenal gland. Previous research has shown that this peptide/receptor system serves as a modulator of the stress response. In addition to modulating the stress response, this system may also be connected to its emerging role as neuroprotective against hypoxia, ischemia, and neurodegeneration. This article aims to review the literature regarding the role of PACAP and its receptors in the stress response, the involvement of different brain regions and microglia in PACAP-mediated modulation of the stress response, and the long-term adaptation to stress recognizable clinically as survival with resilience while manifested in anxiety, depression and other neurobehavioral disorders.
Healthcare workers’ perspectives on trauma and mental health access for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar
Authors: Green Lindsey , Kaljee Linda , Chowdhury Shahanoor Akter , McHale Thomas , Mishori Ranit , Fateen Dahlia , Sheth Nima
Published: January 2025

Background

In August 2017, the Rohingya population of northern Rakhine State in Myanmar fled to Bangladesh following “clearance operations” by the Myanmar security forces that were characterized by widespread and systematic violence, constituting severe human rights violations. The “clearance operations” were preceded by years of consistent denial of the human rights of the Rohingya people in Myanmar. This study examines the impact of these human rights violations on the trauma experiences of Rohingya survivors, their resulting mental health, and the availability and access to post-migration mental health services.

Methods

Qualitative one-on-one interviews were conducted with 26 health care professionals who cared for Rohingya refugees after their arrival in Bangladesh.

Results

Trauma experienced by the Rohingya spanned the period before, during, and following migration and was ongoing at the time of data collection. The impact of Rohingya survivors’ concurrent grief and trauma in relation to the violence they experienced in Myanmar as well as during and after their journey to Bangladesh that, at times, exacerbated survivors’ trauma presentation. There were limited mental health services available in Bangladesh and additional structural and procedural barriers to care that limited responsiveness to Rohingya survivors’ mental health needs.

Conclusion

The Rohingya experienced traumatic human rights violations in Myanmar that led to their forced migration to Bangladesh. The Rohingya continued to experience trauma during their forced migration to Bangladesh and were exposed to additional stressors in the post-migration settings in refugee camps, including lack of access to adequate mental health services. These experiences have resulted in a spectrum of stress-and trauma-related symptoms. These findings show the mental health impact of protracted human rights violations on the Rohingya, revealing how trauma is not a singular event but a continuous experience. Detailing the limited mental health infrastructure and structural barriers facing Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, the findings underscore the urgent need for trauma-informed interventions that address the complex psychological consequences of systemic violence and displacement. The findings emphasize the critical importance of holistic mental health support in refugee settings, providing evidence-based recommendations for the public health and humanitarian sector to consider when designing programs to address the mental health and psychosocial support needs of sexual violence survivors living in conditions of displacement.
Global, regional and national epidemiological trends of multiple myeloma from 1990 to 2021: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease study 2021
Authors: Zhuge Linmin , Lin Xiaowu , Fan Ziwei , Jia Mengxian , Lin Chaowei , Zhu Minyu , Teng Honglin , Chen Guoliang
Published: January 2025

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a growing global public health challenge. Known epidemiological data suggest that MM accounts for approximately 10% of all hematologic malignancies and remains the second most common hematologic cancer worldwide. This study utilized data from the 2021 Global Burden of Diseases (GBD) study to evaluate the prevalence, incidence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and attributable risk factors of MM from 1990 to 2021, and to project future trends for the next 15 years.

Methods

GBD 2021 data were analyzed to assess MM’s global burden using four key epidemiological measures: prevalence, incidence, mortality, and DALYs. Estimates are reported per 100,000 population with uncertainty intervals (UI). Temporal trends were assessed through estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). All analyses were conducted using R version 4.2.1.

Results

From 1990 to 2021, global MM prevalence, incidence, mortality, and DALYs more than doubled, particularly among males. All Social-Demographic Index (SDI) regions showed increases in ASPR, ASIR, ASMR, and ASDR (all EAPCs >0), with the middle SDI regions exhibiting the most rapid growth. ARIMA model predictions suggest that the MM burden will continue rising over the next 15 years. The proportion of MM cases attributable to high BMI also increased globally, from 6.40% in 1990 to 7.96% in 2021. MM primarily affects older adults, with the highest incidence observed in the 70–74 age group and the highest mortality rate recorded in the same age range.

Conclusion

MM presents an escalating global health challenge. Targeted preventive interventions and improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and care are critical, especially in underdeveloped regions, to address the growing global burden of MM.
Almost Disturbance Decoupling Control Strategy for a Class of Underactuated Nonlinear Systems with Disturbances
Authors: Wu Renhan , Liu Xiaoping , Chen Tianfei , Sun Lijun , Wang Na
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces an almost disturbance decoupling approach to address the disturbance problem for a class of underactuated nonlinear systems. First, a residual system is constructed using a virtual controller and partial differential equations. Next, the unknown disturbances are addressed using an almost disturbance decoupling approach, where Young’s inequality is applied to handle the disturbance terms in the residual system. An almost disturbance decoupling controller is designed for the residual system. The locally asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system is rigorously proven using Lyapunov’s theorem. Finally, simulation results on an IWP system with unknown disturbances and experimental results on an overhead crane are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed almost disturbance decoupling control method.
A SAC-Bi-RRT Two-Layer Real-Time Motion Planning Approach for Robot Assembly Tasks in Unstructured Environments
Authors: Zhang Qinglei , Hu Siyao , Duan Jianguo , Qin Jiyun , Zhou Ying
Published: January 2025

Due to the uncertainty and complexity of the assembly process, the trajectory planning of a robot needs to consider the real-time obstacle avoidance problem when it completes the assembly in the unstructured workspace. To realize the safe assembly of assembly robots in dynamic and complex environments, a dynamic obstacle avoidance trajectory planning method for robots combining traditional planning algorithms and deep reinforcement learning algorithms is proposed to improve the robot’s agent and obstacle avoidance ability in dynamic and complex environments. The Bidirectional Rapidly-exploring Random Tree (Bi-RRT) method is utilized as a global planner to plan the global optimal path quickly; considering the real-time nature of the assembly process, the Soft Actor-Critic (SAC) is used as a local obstacle avoider to avoid obstacles more accurately and to find the nearest node generated by the Bi-RRT during the planning process, which is regarded as the goal during the local obstacle avoidance to reduce the model’s complexity. By training and testing in the simulation engine and comparing with SAC, DDPG and DQN algorithms, the method can avoid obstacles in dynamic and complex environments more efficiently, which verifies that the proposed hybrid method can accomplish the high-precision planning task with a high success rate.
Accurate Suspension Force Modeling and Its Control System Design Based on the Consideration of Degree-of-Freedom Interaction
Authors: Zhang Weiyu , Xu Aojie
Published: January 2025

In this study, an accurate suspension force modeling method for the magnetic bearings of flywheel batteries considering degree-of-freedom (DOF) interactions and their control system is proposed to solve the problem that the traditional flywheel battery suspension force model does not consider DOF interactions, which makes the control system control effect poor. Firstly, according to the structural characteristics of the flywheel battery used, a suspension force model is established for the radial and axial magnetic bearings, which are most seriously interfered with by the torsional degrees of freedom of the flywheel battery. Next, by proposing DOF interaction factors, the complex changes due to DOF interactions are cleverly summarized into several interaction factors applied to the fundamental model to achieve accurate suspension force modeling considering DOF interactions. To better adapt the established accurate model and ensure precise control of the flywheel battery system under various working conditions, the firefly algorithm is employed to optimize the BP neural network (FA-BPNN). This optimization regulates the control system’s parameters, enabling the achievement of optimal control parameters in different scenarios and enhancing control efficiency. Compared to the flywheel battery controlled using the fundamental model, the radial and axial displacements are reduced by more than 30 percent and 20 percent, respectively, in the uphill condition using the accurate model with FA-BPNN.