bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Face expression recognition based on NGO-BILSTM model
Authors: Zhong Jiarui , Chen Tangxian , Yi Liuhan
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Facial expression recognition has always been a hot topic in computer vision and artificial intelligence. In recent years, deep learning models have achieved good results in accurately recognizing facial expressions. BILSTM network is such a model. However, the BILSTM network's performance depends largely on its hyperparameters, which is a challenge for optimization.

Methods

In this paper, a Northern Goshawk optimization (NGO) algorithm is proposed to optimize the hyperparameters of BILSTM network for facial expression recognition. The proposed methods were evaluated and compared with other methods on the FER2013, FERplus and RAF-DB datasets, taking into account factors such as cultural background, race and gender.

Results

The results show that the recognition accuracy of the model on FER2013 and FERPlus data sets is much higher than that of the traditional VGG16 network. The recognition accuracy is 89.72% on the RAF-DB dataset, which is 5.45, 9.63, 7.36, and 3.18% higher than that of the proposed facial expression recognition algorithms DLP-CNN, gACNN, pACNN, and LDL-ALSG in recent 2 years, respectively.

Discussion

In conclusion, NGO algorithm effectively optimized the hyperparameters of BILSTM network, improved the performance of facial expression recognition, and provided a new method for the hyperparameter optimization of BILSTM network for facial expression recognition.
Elevated IL-6 plasma levels are associated with GAD antibodies-associated autoimmune epilepsy
Authors: Basnyat Pabitra , Peltola Maria , Raitanen Jani , Liimatainen Suvi , Rainesalo Sirpa , Pesu Marko , Peltola Jukka
Published: March 2023

Background

Antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADA) are present in multiple neurological manifestations, such as stiff-person syndrome, cerebellar ataxia, limbic encephalitis, and epilepsy. Increasing data support the clinical significance of GADA as an autoimmune etiology of epilepsy, however, there is not yet definitive evidence to confirm the pathogenic link between GADA and epilepsy.

Objective

Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-convulsive and neurotoxic cytokine, and interleukin-10 (IL-10), an anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective cytokine, are crucial inflammatory mediators in the brain. Increased production of IL-6 and its association with epileptic disease profiles are well established, suggesting the presence of chronic systemic inflammation in epilepsy. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the association of plasma cytokine concentrations of IL-6 and IL-10 and their ratio with GADA in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

Methods

Interleukin-6 and IL-10 concentrations were measured by ELISA in plasma, and the IL-6/IL-10 ratio was calculated in a cross-sectional cohort of 247 patients with epilepsy who had their GADA titers measured previously for their clinical significance in epilepsy. Based on GADA titers, patients were grouped as GADA negative (n = 238), GADA low positive (antibody titers < 1,000 RU/mL, n = 5), and GADA high positive (antibody titers ≥ 1,000 RU/mL, n = 4).

Results

Median IL-6 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with high GADA positivity [2.86 pg/mL, interquartile range (IQR) = 1.90–5.34 pg/mL] than in GADA-negative patients [1.18 pg/mL, interquartile range (IQR) = 0.54–2.32 pg/mL; p = 0.039]. Similarly, IL-10 concentrations were also higher in GADA high-positive patients [1.45 pg/mL, interquartile range (IQR) = 0.53–14.32 pg/mL] than in GADA-negative patients [0.50 pg/mL, interquartile range (IQR) = 0.24–1.00 pg/mL], however, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.110). Neither IL-6 nor IL-10 concentrations were different between GADA-negative and GADA low-positive patients (p > 0.05) or between GADA low-positive or GADA high-positive patients (p > 0.05). The IL-6/IL-10 ratio was also similar among all the study groups.

Conclusion

Increased circulatory concentrations of IL-6 are associated with high GADA titers in patients with epilepsy. These data provide additional pathophysiological significance of IL-6 and help to further describe the immune mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of GADA-associated autoimmune epilepsy.
Practice makes plasticity: 10-Hz rTMS enhances LTP-like plasticity in musicians and athletes
Authors: Kweon Jamie , Vigne Megan M. , Jones Richard N. , Carpenter Linda L. , Brown Joshua C.
Published: March 2023

Motor skill learning has been linked to functional and structural changes in the brain. Musicians and athletes undergo intensive motor training through the practice of an instrument or sport and have demonstrated use-dependent plasticity that may be subserved by long-term potentiation (LTP) processes. We know less, however, about whether the brains of musicians and athletes respond to plasticity-inducing interventions, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), differently than those without extensive motor training. In a pharmaco-rTMS study, we evaluated motor cortex excitability before and after an rTMS protocol in combination with oral administration of D-cycloserine (DCS) or placebo. In a secondary covariate analysis, we compared results between self-identified musicians and athletes (M&As) and non-musicians and athletes (non-M&As). Three TMS measures of cortical physiology were used to evaluate plasticity. We found that M&As did not have higher baseline corticomotor excitability. However, a plasticity-inducing protocol (10-Hz rTMS in combination with DCS) strongly facilitated motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) in M&As, but only weakly in non-M&As. Placebo and rTMS produced modest facilitation in both groups. Our findings suggest that motor practice and learning create a neuronal environment more responsive to plasticity-inducing events, including rTMS. These findings may explain one factor contributing to the high inter-individual variability found with MEP data. Greater capacity for plasticity holds implications for learning paradigms, such as psychotherapy and rehabilitation, by facilitating LTP-like activation of key networks, including recovery from neurological/mental disorders.
Case report: Radiographic complete response of radiation-induced glioblastoma to front-line radiotherapy: A report and molecular characterization of two unique cases
Authors: Grogan Patrick T. , Helgager Jeffrey J. , Deming Dustin A. , Howard Steven P. , Jenkins Robert B. , Robins H. Ian
Published: March 2023

Radiation-induced gliomas (RIGs) are an uncommon disease type and a known long-term complication of prior central nervous system radiation exposure, often during childhood. Given the rarity of this malignancy subtype, no clinical trials have explored optimal therapy for these patients, and the literature is primarily limited to reports of patient cases and series. Indeed, the genomic profiles of RIGs have only recently been explored in limited numbers, categorizing these gliomas into a unique subset. Here, we describe two cases of RIG diagnosed as glioblastoma (GB), IDH-wildtype, in adults who had previously received central nervous system radiation for childhood cancers. Both patients demonstrated a surprising complete radiographic response of the postoperative residual disease to front-line therapy, a phenomenon rarely observed in the management of any GB and never previously reported for the radiation-induced subgroup. Both tumors were characterized by next-generation sequencing and chromosomal microarray to identify potential etiologies for this response as well as to further add to the limited literature about the unique molecular profile of RIGs, showing signatures more consistent with diffuse pediatric-type high-grade glioma, H3-wildtype, and IDH-wildtype, WHO grade 4. Ultimately, we demonstrate that treatment utilizing a radiation-based regimen for GB in a previously radiated tissue can be highly successful despite historical limitations in the management of this disease.
Single and repeated high-level blast, low-level blast, and new-onset self-reported health conditions in the U.S. Millennium Cohort Study: An exploratory investigation
Authors: Belding Jennifer N. , Kolaja Claire A. , Rull Rudolph P. , Trone Daniel W.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Although previous research suggests that overpressure exposure from either high-level blast (HLB) or low-level blast (LLB) are harmful to health, to date no large-scale studies with representative samples of military personnel have utilized prospective designs and self-reported measures to examine the relationships between blast exposure and health conditions. To address these limitations, this analysis of data from the Millennium Cohort Study (MCS), the largest and longest running study of U.S. service members and veterans, examined (1) whether single or repeated HLB exposure is associated with self-reported diagnoses of illness and injury, (2) whether repeated HLB is associated with greater risk than single HLB, (3) potential adverse consequences of LLB exposure using military occupation as a proxy, and (4) the combined effects of single or repeated HLB and LLB exposure.

Method

MCS participants who completed the 2011–2013 survey (N = 138,949) were classified as having been exposed to “no,” “single,” or “repeated” HLB exposure, and into low or high risk of exposure to LLB based on occupation. Participants self-reported diagnosis of 45 medical conditions; newly reported diagnoses were regressed on single and repeated (vs. no) HLB, occupational risk of LLB, and relevant interactions using logistic regression.

Results

Single and repeated HLB were associated with new onset of 25 and 29 diagnoses, respectively; repeated HLB exposure was associated with greater risk than single HLB exposure for five diagnoses (e.g., PTSD, depression). Occupational risk of LLB was associated with 11 diagnoses (e.g., PTSD, significant hearing loss). Additionally, 14 significant interactions were detected across 11 diagnoses.

Discussion

Findings suggest that overpressure exposure (including single HLB, repeated HLB, and occupational risk of LLB) may increase the risks of self-reporting clinical diagnoses of PTSD, hearing loss, chronic fatigue syndrome, neuropathy-caused reduced sensation in the hands and feet, depression, vision loss, sinusitis, reflux, and anemia. Furthermore, the combination of HLB and LLB exposure may be associated with greater risk of migraines, PTSD, and impaired fecundity. These findings provide further evidence of the potential adverse consequences associated with overpressure exposure and underscore the necessity of public health surveillance initiatives for blast exposure and/or safety recommendations for training and operational environments.
BitBrain and Sparse Binary Coincidence (SBC) memories: Fast, robust learning and inference for neuromorphic architectures
Authors: Hopkins Michael , Fil Jakub , Jones Edward George , Furber Steve
Published: March 2023

We present an innovative working mechanism (theSBC memory) and surrounding infrastructure (BitBrain) based upon a novel synthesis of ideas from sparse coding, computational neuroscience and information theory that enables fast and adaptive learning and accurate, robust inference. The mechanism is designed to be implemented efficiently on current and future neuromorphic devices as well as on more conventional CPU and memory architectures. An example implementation on the SpiNNaker neuromorphic platform has been developed and initial results are presented. The SBC memory stores coincidences between features detected in class examples in a training set, and infers the class of a previously unseen test example by identifying the class with which it shares the highest number of feature coincidences. A number of SBC memories may be combined in aBitBrainto increase the diversity of the contributing feature coincidences. The resulting inference mechanism is shown to have excellent classification performance on benchmarks such as MNIST and EMNIST, achieving classification accuracy with single-pass learning approaching that of state-of-the-art deep networks with much larger tuneable parameter spaces and much higher training costs. It can also be made very robust to noise.BitBrainis designed to be very efficient in training and inference on both conventional and neuromorphic architectures. It provides a unique combination of single-pass, single-shot and continuous supervised learning; following a very simple unsupervised phase. Accurate classification inference that is very robust against imperfect inputs has been demonstrated. These contributions make it uniquely well-suited for edge and IoT applications.
Physiological concentration of protocatechuic acid directly protects vascular endothelial function against inflammation in diabetes through Akt/eNOS pathway
Authors: Chook Chui Yiu Bamboo , Cheung Yiu Ming , Ma Ka Ying , Leung Fung Ping , Zhu Hanyue , Niu Qingshan Jason , Wong Wing Tak , Chen Zhen-Yu
Published: March 2023

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have been the major cause of mortality in type 2 diabetes. However, new approaches are still warranted since current diabetic medications, which focus mainly on glycemic control, do not effectively lower cardiovascular mortality rate in diabetic patients. Protocatechuic acid (PCA) is a phenolic acid widely distributed in garlic, onion, cauliflower and other plant-based foods. Given the anti-oxidative effects of PCA in vitro, we hypothesized that PCA would also have direct beneficial effects on endothelial function in addition to the systemic effects on vascular health demonstrated by previous studies.

Methods and results

Since IL-1β is the major pathological contributor to endothelial dysfunction in diabetes, the anti-inflammatory effects of PCA specific on endothelial cells were further verified by the use of IL-1β-induced inflammation model. Direct incubation of db/db mouse aortas with physiological concentration of PCA significantly ameliorated endothelium-dependent relaxation impairment, as well as reactive oxygen species overproduction mediated by diabetes. In addition to the well-studied anti-oxidative activity, PCA demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the pro-inflammatory cytokines MCP1, VCAM1 and ICAM1, as well as increasing the phosphorylation of eNOS and Akt in the inflammatory endothelial cell model induced by the key player in diabetic endothelial dysfunction IL-1β. Upon blocking of Akt phosphorylation, p-eNOS/eNOS remained low and the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines by PCA ceased.

Conclusion

PCA exerts protection on vascular endothelial function against inflammation through Akt/eNOS pathway, suggesting daily acquisition of PCA may be encouraged for diabetic patients.
Efficacy and outcomes of ramucirumab and docetaxel in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer after disease progression on immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy: Results of a monocentric, retrospective analysis
Authors: Kareff Samuel A. , Gawri Kunal , Khan Khadeja , Kwon Deukwoo , Rodriguez Estelamari , Lopes Gilberto de Lima , Dawar Richa
Published: March 2023

Current first-line standard therapy for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer without driver mutations involves chemotherapy and immunotherapy combination. Prior to the advent of immune checkpoint inhibition, REVEL, a randomized phase III trial demonstrated improved progression-free and overall survival with ramucirumab and docetaxel (ram+doc) in patients who failed platinum-based first-line therapy. Long-term outcomes related to second-line ramucirumab and docetaxel after first-line immunotherapy exposure remain unknown. We analyzed outcomes for 35 patients from our center whom received ramucirumab and docetaxel following disease progression on chemotherapy and immunotherapy combination. Median progression-free survival among patients who received ram+doc after exposure to immunotherapy was 6.6 months (95% CI = 5.5 to 14.9 months; p<0.0001), and median overall survival was 20.9 months (95% CI = 13.4 months to infinity; p<0.0001). These outcomes suggest that there may a synergistic benefit to combining chemotherapy with anti-angiogenic therapy after immunotherapy exposure. Future analyses should be evaluated prospectively and among a larger patient subset.
Lung aeration reduces blood pressure surges caused by umbilical cord milking in preterm lambs
Authors: Blank Douglas A. , Crossley Kelly J. , Thiel Alison , Rodgers Karyn A. , Zahra Valerie , Kluckow Martin , Gill Andrew W. , Polglase Graeme R. , Hooper Stuart B.
Published: March 2023

Background

Umbilical cord milking (UCM) at birth causes surges in arterial blood pressure and blood flow to the brain, which may explain the high risk of intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) in extremely preterm infants receiving UCM. This high risk of IVH has not been reported in older infants.

Objective

We hypothesized that lung aeration before UCM, reduces the surge in blood pressure and blood flow induced by UCM.

Methods

At 126 days' gestation, fetal lambs (N = 8) were exteriorised, intubated and instrumented to measure umbilical, pulmonary, cerebral blood flows, and arterial pressures. Prior to ventilation onset, the umbilical cord was briefly (2–3 s) occluded (8 times), which was followed by 8 consecutive UCMs when all physiological parameters had returned to baseline. Lambs were then ventilated. After diastolic pulmonary blood flow markedly increased in response to ventilation, the lambs received a further 8 consecutive UCMs. Ovine umbilical cord is shorter than the human umbilical cord, with ∼10 cm available for UCMs. Therefore, 8 UCMs/occlusions were done to match the volume reported in the human studies. Umbilical cord clamping occurred after the final milk.

Results

Both umbilical cord occlusions and UCM caused significant increases in carotid arterial blood flow and pressure. However, the increases in systolic and mean arterial blood pressure (10 ± 3 mmHg vs. 3 ± 2 mmHg, p = 0.01 and 10 ± 4 mmHg vs. 6 ± 2 mmHg, p = 0.048, respectively) and carotid artery blood flow (17 ± 6 ml/min vs. 10 ± 6 ml/min, p = 0.02) were significantly greater when UCM occurred before ventilation onset compared with UCM after ventilation.

Conclusions

UCM after ventilation onset significantly reduces the increases in carotid blood flow and blood pressure caused by UCM.
Multimodal imaging of congenital pyriform fossa fistula in children
Authors: Zhai Aiguo , Peng Xuehua , Guo Yu , Li Jian , Shao Jianbo
Published: March 2023

Objective

Our aim was to explore the clinical value of multimodal imaging examinations in the diagnosis of congenital pyriform fossa fistula in children, so as to provide clues for the early diagnosis and treatment of congenital pyriform fossa fistula.

Methods

The clinical and imaging data of 55 children with pyriform fossa fistula diagnosed surgically in our hospital from 2015 to 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. All 55 patients underwent a CT scan. Of those patients, contrast enhancement CT was performed in 47 cases, MRI was performed in 2 cases, and barium esophagography was performed in 41 cases.

Results

Among the 55 cases, there were 24 male patients and 31 female patients. The age ranged from 11 months to 13 years old, and the median age was 3.8 years old. The lesions of 49 cases (89.1%) were located on the left side, and the imaging of CT showed soft tissue mass in the anterior cervical region blurred boundary. There was ipsilateral thyroid involvement in 50 cases (90.9%), trachea and/or carotid sheath extension in 43 cases (78.2%), abscess formation in 39 cases (70.9%), and pneumatosis in 25 cases (45.5%). The CT examination of 22 children after treatment showed a linear or tubular low-density shadow in the thyroid gland, gas accumulation in the anterior cervical region or thyroid, and residual contrast medium, partly. A total of 24 cases underwent barium esophagography during the acute phase, and 15 cases (62.5%) showed sinus formation from the pyriform fossa downward or punctate high-density shadow in the anterior cervical region. The 2 cases where MRI was performed showed abscess formation in one side of the neck and thyroid involvement.

Conclusion

Pyriform fossa fistula is most common in the left anterior cervical region, and it is closely related to the thyroid gland. The plain and enhanced-contrast CT scan can be used as the first choice during the infection stage. It helps to understand the location, extent, and structure of the surrounding tissue. The preliminary diagnosis of pyriform sinus fistula was according to the imaging features. It provided an important basis for clinical diagnosis and reduced the pain caused by repeated infection or surgical incision and drainage.
Should continuous glucose monitoring be used to manage neonates at risk of hypoglycaemia?
Authors: Kalogeropoulou Maria-Sofia , Iglesias-Platas Isabel , Beardsall Kathryn
Published: March 2023

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) now recommends that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) be offered to adults and children with diabetes who are at risk from hypoglycaemia. Hypoglycaemia is common in the neonatal period, and is a preventable cause of poor neurodevelopmental outcome, but is CGM helpful in the management of neonates at risk of hypoglycaemia? Neonatal studies have shown that CGM can detect clinically silent hypoglycaemia, which has been associated with reduced executive and visual function in early childhood. Intervention trials have further shown CGM can support the targeting of glucose levels in high-risk extremely preterm neonates. In spite of significant advances in technology, including smaller sensors, better accuracy and factory calibration, further progress and adoption into clinical practice has been limited as current devices are not designed nor have regulatory approval for the specific needs of the newborn. The use of CGM has the potential to support clinical management, and prevention of hypoglycaemia but must be set within its current limitations. The data CGM provides however also provides an important opportunity to improve our understanding of potential risks of hypoglycaemia and the impact of clinical interventions to prevent it.
Analysis of umbilical cord tissue as an indicator of in utero exposure to toxic adulterating substances
Authors: Midthun Kari M. , Nelson Brandon N. , Strathmann Frederick G. , Browne Thom , Logan Barry K.
Published: March 2023

In utero drug exposure is a significant public health threat to the well-being and normal development of the neonate. Recently, testing of umbilical cord tissue (UCT) has been employed to measure illicit drug exposure, as drugs used by the mother during the third trimester may be retained in the UCT. Focus has also been given to potential adverse health effects among drug users, resulting from exposure to pharmacologically active adulterants and cutting agents in the street drug supply. The in utero effects of these substances have not been well studied in humans, nor has their presence been demonstrated as a means for assessing adverse health effects in the neonate. Here, we describe the application of a novel test method to analyze UCT for the presence of more than 20 common adulterating/cutting substances via LC/Q-TOF. In total, 300 de-identified UCT samples were analyzed–all had previously tested positive for cocaine or opiates. Generally, the positivity rates of individual compounds were similar between the Cocaine and Opiates Subgroups, apart from levamisole, xylazine, dipyrone (metabolites), and promethazine. Many of the adulterants used in the street drug supply do have legitimate medicinal/therapeutic uses, including several of the compounds most frequently detected in this study. Caffeine and lidocaine were the most frequently identified compounds both individually (>70% each) and in combination with each other. Alternatively, levamisole, an adulterant with no legitimate therapeutic use, was present in 12% of cases. Importantly, this data demonstrates that the detection of traditional drugs of abuse may serve as indicators of potential in utero exposure to toxic adulterating substances during gestation. While there is cause for concern with respect to any unintentional drug exposure, illicit drug use during pregnancy, including uncontrolled dosing, poly-adulterant consumption, and the interactions of these drug mixtures, produces a significant public health threat to the neonate which warrants further study.
Glomerular capillary C3 deposition as a risk factor for unfavorable renal outcome in pediatric primary focal segmental glomerular sclerosis
Authors: Peng Yingchao , Li Banghai , Li Xiaojie , Ju Tao , Zhang Zhiqiang , Wang Peipei , Sun Tao , Shu Jiaping , Wang Meiqiu , Sun Xiaoyi , Chen Huangyu , Gao Chunlin , Xia Zhengkun
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Some patients with primary focal segmental sclerosis (FSGS) demonstrate complement 3 (C3) deposition in glomerular capillary loops (Cap-C3) and/or mesangial area (Mes-C3). The clinicopathological and prognostic significance of C3 deposition remains incompletely investigated, especially in the pediatric cohort.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 264 children of biopsy-proven primary FSGS between January 2003 and December 2020. The correlation between Cap-C3 and renal outcome was evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox multivariate regression analysis. Renal end-point event was defined as the development of end-stage renal disease, death for renal disease, or an estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction by at least 50% from baseline.

Results

Among the 264 patients, 30 (11.4%) had Cap-C3. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with Cap-C3 had significantly lower renal survival rates than patients without Cap-C3 (60.17% vs. 84.71% at 5 years, 39.49% vs. 65.55% at 10 years, P < 0.01). Cox multivariate regression analysis showed that Cap-C3 was an independent risk factor for poor renal outcome (HR 3.53, 95% CI 1.22–10.19, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Glomerular capillary C3 deposition was an independent risk factor for unfavorable renal outcome in children with primary FSGS.
Transportation of Fe3O4-SiO2-Al2O3/EO and SiO2-Al2O3/EO nanoparticles in magnetized Reiner–Philippoff liquid, including modified fluxes via Galerkin algorithm: Significance of EMHD
Authors: Sohail Muhammad , Nazir Umar , Mukdasai Kanit , Singh Manoj , Singh Abha , Mohan Chandika Rama , Galal Ahmed M. , Eldin Sayed M.
Published: March 2023

This developing study is focused on mass diffusion and thermal energy enhancement in Reiner–Philippoff martial across a vertical-surface under an exposed Lorentz force. Characterization of the thermal energy and mass diffusion are modified utilizing non-Fourier’s theory in the presence of a heat source. Three types of nanoparticles — Al2O3, titanium dioxide, and TiO2 — in engine oil are inserted for production of heat energy. Darcy’s Forchheimer theory is used to analyze behavior flow and heat energy. Moreover, effects related to Dufour and Soret are added. A transformed system of ODEs is achieved regarding the developed model using similarity variables. Numerically developing models in the form of ODEs are handled with the aid of the finite element method (FEM). Fluidic thermal energy is augmented against upshot values of time relaxation number. Fluidic concentration declines against changes in Schmidt number and chemical reaction number.
A model for fermionic dark matter addressing both the CDF MW and the (g − 2)μ anomalies
Authors: Arcadi Giorgio , Djouadi Abdelhak
Published: March 2023

We explore a simple and renormalizable model which incorporates a new stable fermion that accounts for the dark matter in the universe and which, at the same time, provides an interpretation of two recent measurements that deviate from the expectation in the Standard Model: the muon anomalous magnetic moment and the mass of the W boson recently recorded by the CDF collaboration. The model has a fermionic sector that involves singlet and doublet fields, in which the lightest state is the DM and interacts mainly through the Higgs portal. Two realizations of such a possibility are considered: one in which the Higgs sector is minimal and another in which it is extended to contain two doublet fields.
Characterization and comprehensive evaluation of phenotypic characters in wild Camellia oleifera germplasm for conservation and breeding
Authors: Chen Tao , Liu Li , Zhou Yiling , Zheng Qian , Luo Siyuan , Xiang Tingting , Zhou Lijun , Feng Shiling , Yang Hongyu , Ding Chunbang
Published: March 2023

Camellia oleifera Abel. is an economically important woody oil plant native to China. To explore the genetic diversity of wild C. oleifera phenotypic traits and effectively protect these germplasm resources, this study provides a thorough evaluation of the phenotypic variability of a cluster of 143 wild C. oleifera germplasm resources. A total of 41 characters, including leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and oil quality characters, were investigated based on the quantization of physical and chemical descriptors and digital image analysis. The findings revealed significant variations among the 41 characters with a high range of Shannon–Wiener indexes (H′) from 0.07 to 2.19. The coefficient of variation (CV) among 32 quantitative characters ranged from 5.34% to 81.31%, with an average of 27.14%. High genetic diversity was also detected among the 143 germplasm. Based on the analysis of hierarchical clustering, 143 accessions were separated into six categories. All the individuals can be clearly distinguished from each other according to the result of the principal component analysis (PCA). The M-TOPSIS exhaustive evaluation method based on correlation and PCA analyses of 32 quantitative characters was applied for the 143 wild C. oleifera accessions, and the top 10 varieties were identified as YA53, YA13, YA40, YA34, YA57, YA19, YA33, YA41, DZ8, and YA7. This research optimized the germplasm evaluation system and perfected the statistical phenotypic traits for distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) testing. Some top-notch germplasm sources were also screened for oil-tea Camellia breeding.
Arabidopsis LFR, a SWI/SNF complex component, interacts with ICE1 and activates ICE1 and CBF3 expression in cold acclimation
Authors: Ma Tian , Wang Shuge , Sun Cunyi , Tian Jiawang , Guo Hong , Cui Sujuan , Zhao Hongtao
Published: March 2023

Low temperatures restrict the growth and geographic distribution of plants, as well as crop yields. Appropriate transcriptional regulation is critical for cold acclimation in plants. In this study, we found that the mutation of Leaf and flower related (LFR), a component of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex (CRC) important for transcriptional regulation in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), resulted in hypersensitivity to freezing stress in plants with or without cold acclimation, and this defect was successfully complemented by LFR. The expression levels of CBFs and COR genes in cold-treated lfr-1 mutant plants were lower than those in wild-type plants. Furthermore, LFR was found to interact directly with ICE1 in yeast and plants. Consistent with this, LFR was able to directly bind to the promoter region of CBF3, a direct target of ICE1. LFR was also able to bind to ICE1 chromatin and was required for ICE1 transcription. Together, these results demonstrate that LFR interacts directly with ICE1 and activates ICE1 and CBF3 gene expression in response to cold stress. Our work enhances our understanding of the epigenetic regulation of cold responses in plants.
The early life course-related traits with three psychiatric disorders: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: He Renke , Mo Jiaying , Zhu Kejing , Luo Qinyu , Liu Xueying , Huang Hefeng , Sheng Jianzhong
Published: March 2023

Objectives:

Several studies have indicated a potential association between early life course-related traits and neurological and psychiatric disorders in adulthood, but the causal link remains unclear.

Methods:

Instrumental variables (IVs) that have been shown to be strongly associated with exposure were obtained from summary data of genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Four early life course-related traits [i.e., birthweight (BW), childhood body mass index (BMI), early body size, and age at first birth (AFB)] were used as exposure IVs to estimate their causal associations with three neurological and psychiatric diseases [i.e., Alzheimer’s disease (AD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)]. Four different statistical methods, i.e., inverse-variance weighting (IVW), MR–Egger (MRE), weighted median (WM), and weighted mode (Wm), were performed in our MR analysis. Sensitivity analysis was performed by using the leave-one-out method, and horizontal pleiotropy was assessed using the MR-PRESSO package.

Results:

There was evidence suggesting that BW has a causal effect on AD (ORMR-PRESSO = 1.05, p = 1.14E-03), but this association was not confirmed via multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) (ORMVMR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.92–1.02, p = 3.00E-01). A strong relationship was observed between childhood BMI and ADHD among both sexes; a 1-SD increase in BMI significantly predicted a 1.46-fold increase in the OR for ADHD (p = 9.13E-06). In addition, a similar relationship was found between early life body size and ADHD (ORMR-PRESSO = 1.47, p = 9.62E-05), and this effect was mainly driven by male participants (ORMR-PRESSO = 1.50, p = 1.28E-3). Earlier AFB could significantly predict a higher risk of MDD (ORMR-PRESSO = 1.19, p = 1.96E-10) and ADHD (ORMR-PRESSO = 1.45, p = 1.47E-15). No significant causal associations were observed between the remaining exposures and outcomes.

Conclusion:

Our results reveal the adverse effects of childhood obesity and preterm birth on the risk of ADHD later in life. The results of MVMR also show that lower BW may have no direct relationship with AD after adjusting for BMI. Furthermore, AFB may predict a higher risk of MDD.
Interactions of genetic risks for autism and the broad autism phenotypes
Authors: Dong Lijie , Wang Yijing , Wang Xiaomeng , Luo Tengfei , Zhou Qiao , Zhao Guihu , Li Bin , Xia Lu , Xia Kun , Li Jinchen
Published: March 2023

Background

Common polygenic risk and de novo variants (DNVs) capture a small proportion of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) liability, and ASD phenotypic heterogeneity remains difficult to explain. Integrating multiple genetic factors contribute to clarifying the risk and clinical presentation of ASD.

Methods

In our study, we investigated the individual and combined effects of polygenic risk, damaging DNVs (including those in ASD risk genes), and sex among 2,591 ASD simplex families in the Simons Simplex Collection. We also explored the interactions among these factors, along with the broad autism phenotypes of ASD probands and their unaffected siblings. Finally, we combined the effects of polygenic risk, damaging DNVs in ASD risk genes, and sex to explain the total liability of ASD phenotypic spectrum.

Results

Our findings revealed that both polygenic risk and damaging DNVs contribute to an increased risk for ASD, with females exhibiting higher genetic burdens than males. ASD probands that carry damaging DNVs in ASD risk genes showed reduced polygenic risk. The effects of polygenic risk and damaging DNVs on autism broad phenotypes were inconsistent; probands with higher polygenic risk exhibited improvement in some behaviors, such as adaptive/cognitive behaviors, while those with damaging DNVs exhibited more severe phenotypes. Siblings with higher polygenic risk and damaging DNVs tended to have higher scores on broader autism phenotypes. Females exhibited more severe cognitive and behavioral problems compared to males among both ASD probands and siblings. The combination of polygenic risk, damaging DNVs in ASD risk genes, and sex explained 1–4% of the total liability of adaptive/cognitive behavior measurements.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that the risk for ASD and the autism broad phenotypes likely arises from a combination of common polygenic risk, damaging DNVs (including those in ASD risk genes), and sex.
Sarcopenia index based on serum creatinine and cystatin C is associated with mortality in middle-aged and older adults in Chinese: A retrospective cohort study from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wu Yang , Wang Hai , Tong Yingmu , Zhang Xing , Long Yunxiang , Li Qinglin , Ren Jie , Liu Chang
Published: March 2023

Background

The sarcopenia index (SI, serum creatinine/serum cystatin C × 100) is recommended for predicting sarcopenia. There were several studies showing that lower SI is associated with poorer outcomes in the older adults. However, the cohorts studied in these researches were mainly patients hospitalized. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between SI and all-cause mortality among middle-aged and older adults from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).

Materials and methods

A total of 8,328 participants meeting the criteria were enrolled in this study from CHARLS between 2011 and 2012. SI was calculated as [serum creatinine (mg/dL)/cystatin C (mg/L)] × 100. Mann-Whitney U-test and Fisher's exact test were used to assess balance in baseline characteristics. Kaplan-Meier, log-rang analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox hazard ratio regression models were used to compare the mortality between different SI levels. The dose relationship between sarcopenia index and all-cause mortality was further assessed by the cubic spline functions and smooth curve fitting.

Results

After adjustment for potential covariates, we found SI was significantly correlated with all-cause mortality [Hazard Ratio (HR) = 0.983, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.977–0.988, P < 0.001]. Similarly, as SI was used as a categorical variable according to quartiles, higher SI was associated with lower mortality [Hazard Ratio (HR) = 0.44, 95% CI 0.34–0.57, P < 0.001] after adjustment for confounders.

Conclusions

Lower sarcopenia index was associated with higher mortality among middle-aged and older adults in China.
Effectiveness of video self-instruction training on cardiopulmonary resuscitation retention of knowledge and skills among nurses in north-western Nigeria
Authors: Saidu Ahmed , Lee Khuan , Ismail Iskasymar , Arulogun Oyedunni , Lim Poh Ying
Published: March 2023

Background

Adaptable cardiopulmonary resuscitation/basic life support (CPR/BLS) training are required to reduce cardiac arrest mortality globally, especially among nurses. Thus, this study aims to compared CPR knowledge and skills retention level between instructor-led (control group) and video self-instruction training (intervention group) among nurses in northwestern Nigeria.

Methods

A two-arm randomized controlled trial study using double blinding method was conducted with 150 nurses from two referral hospitals. Stratified simple random method was used to choose eligible nurses. For video self-instruction training (intervention group), participants learnt the CPR training via computer in a simulation lab for 7 days, in their own available time whereas for instructor-led training (control group), a 1-day program was conducted by AHA certified instructors. A generalized estimated equation model was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Generalized Estimated Equation showed that there were no significant differences between the intervention group (p = 0.055) and control group (p = 0.121) for both CPR knowledge and skills levels respectively, whereas higher probability of having good knowledge and skills in a post-test, one month and three-month follow-up compared to baseline respectively, adjusted with covariates (p < 0.05). Participants had a lower probability of having good skills at 6-month follow-up compared to baseline, adjusted with covariates (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

This study showed no significant differences between the two training methods, hence video self-instruction training is suggested can train more nurses in a less cost-effective manner to maximize resource utilization and quality nursing care. It is suggested to be used to improve knowledge and skills among nurses to ensure cardiac arrest patients receive excellent resuscitation care.
The time-course linkage between hemolysis, redox, and metabolic parameters during red blood cell storage with or without uric acid and ascorbic acid supplementation
Authors: Anastasiadi Alkmini T. , Stamoulis Konstantinos , Papageorgiou Effie G. , Lelli Veronica , Rinalducci Sara , Papassideri Issidora S. , Kriebardis Anastasios G. , Antonelou Marianna H. , Tzounakas Vassilis L.
Published: March 2023

Oxidative phenomena are considered to lie at the root of the accelerated senescence observed in red blood cells (RBCs) stored under standard blood bank conditions. It was recently shown that the addition of uric (UA) and/or ascorbic acid (AA) to the preservative medium beneficially impacts the storability features of RBCs related to the handling of pro-oxidant triggers. This study constitutes the next step, aiming to examine the links between hemolysis, redox, and metabolic parameters in control and supplemented RBC units of different storage times. For this purpose, a paired correlation analysis of physiological and metabolism parameters was performed between early, middle, and late storage in each subgroup. Strong and repeated correlations were observed throughout storage in most hemolysis parameters, as well as in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation, suggesting that these features constitute donor-signatures, unaffected by the diverse storage solutions. Moreover, during storage, a general “dialogue” was observed between parameters of the same category (e.g., cell fragilities and hemolysis or lipid peroxidation and ROS), highlighting their interdependence. In all groups, extracellular antioxidant capacity, proteasomal activity, and glutathione precursors of preceding time points anticorrelated with oxidative stress lesions of upcoming ones. In the case of supplemented units, factors responsible for glutathione synthesis varied proportionally to the levels of glutathione itself. The current findings support that UA and AA addition reroutes the metabolism to induce glutathione production, and additionally provide mechanistic insight and footing to examine novel storage optimization strategies.
Mitochondrial responses to brain death in solid organ transplant
Authors: Taylor Meredith E. , Jaishankar Dinesh , Ho Jessie W. , Alam Hasan B. , Bharat Ankit , Nadig Satish N.
Published: March 2023

Mitochondrial dynamics are central to the pathophysiology of cellular damage and inflammatory responses. In the context of solid organ transplantation, mitochondria are implicated in immune activation in donor organs that occurs after brain death, as they are critical to the regulation of cellular stress response, cell death, and display energetic adaptations through the adjustment of respiratory capacity depending on the cellular milieu. Mitochondrial damage activates mitochondrial systems of fission, fusion, biogenesis, and mitochondrial autophagy, or mitophagy. The mechanistic pathways as well as therapies targeting mitochondrial physiology have been studied as plausible ways to mitigate the negative effects of brain death on donor organs, though there is no summative evaluation of the multiple efforts across the field. This mini-review aims to discuss the interplay of donor brain death, mitochondrial dynamics, and impact on allograft function as it pertains to heart, lung, liver, and kidney transplants.
Qualitative and quantitative evidence of motivation states for physical activity, exercise and being sedentary from university student focus groups
Authors: Stults-Kolehmainen Matthew A. , Gilson Todd A. , SantaBarbara Nicholas , McKee Paul C. , Sinha Rajita , Bartholomew John B. , Boullosa Daniel , Budnick Christopher J. , Bueno Fabio Amador , Haughton Adrian , Barker Jessica L. , Ash Garrett I.
Published: March 2023

Motivation for physical activity and sedentary behaviors (e.g., desires, urges, wants, cravings) varies from moment to moment. According to the WANT model, these motivation states may be affectively-charged (e.g., felt as tension), particularly after periods of maximal exercise or extended rest. The purpose of this study was to examine postulates of the WANT model utilizing a mixed-methods approach. We hypothesized that: (1) qualitative evidence would emerge from interviews to support this model, and (2) motivation states would quantitatively change over the course of an interview period. Seventeen undergraduate students (mean age = 18.6y, 13 women) engaged in focus groups where 12 structured questions were presented. Participants completed the “right now” version of the CRAVE scale before and after interviews. Qualitative data were analyzed with content analysis. A total of 410 unique lower-order themes were classified and grouped into 43 higher order themes (HOTs). From HOTs, six super higher order themes (SHOTs) were designated: (1) wants and aversions, (2) change and stability, (3) autonomy and automaticity, (4) objectives and impulses, (5) restraining and propelling forces, and (6) stress and boredom. Participants stated that they experienced desires to move and rest, including during the interview, but these states changed rapidly and varied both randomly as well as systematically across periods of minutes to months. Some also described a total absence of desire or even aversion to move and rest. Of note, strong urges and cravings for movement, typically from conditions of deprivation (e.g., sudden withdrawal from exercise training) were associated with physical and mental manifestations, such as fidgeting and feeling restless. Urges were often consummated with behavior (e.g., exercise sessions, naps), which commonly resulted in satiation and subsequent drop in desire. Importantly, stress was frequently described as both an inhibitor and instigator of motivation states. CRAVE-Move increased pre-to-post interviews (p < .01). CRAVE-Rest demonstrated a trend to decline (p = .057). Overall, qualitative and quantitative data largely corroborated postulates of the WANT model, demonstrating that people experience wants and cravings to move and rest, and that these states appear to fluctuate significantly, especially in the context of stress, boredom, satiety, and deprivation.