bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of ultrasonographic features between two types of hepatic echinococcosis and hepatoblastoma in children
Authors: Tao Yi , Kong Hanqing , Li Jiawu , Tan Zhizhi , Wang Jun , Luo Yan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The prevalence of hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (AE) and cystic echinococcosis (CE) is notably high among children in western China, with the mortality rate for untreated children potentially reaching up to 90%. Meanwhile, hepatoblastoma is the most common malignant liver tumor in children, yet its treatment differs significantly from that of hepatic echinococcosis. This study aimed to compare and analyze the ultrasonographic and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) characteristics of hepatic CE, AE, and hepatoblastoma in children, providing more imaging evidence for accurate clinical diagnosis.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on preoperative data from children with pathologically confirmed hepatic echinococcosis in our hospital between 2012 and 2024. Furthermore, children consecutively diagnosed with hepatoblastoma between 2020 and 2024, confirmed by histopathological examination, were selected as the control group. Clinical data, conventional ultrasound images, and CEUS characteristics of hepatic echinococcosis and hepatoblastoma were analyzed and compared.

Results

The mean ages of 22 children with hepatic CE and nine children with hepatic AE were 11.6 ± 2.8 years and 11.8 ± 3.6 years, respectively. The mean age of 36 children with hepatoblastoma was 2.9 ± 3.0 years. Significant differences were observed in age and history of residence or travel to endemic areas among children with hepatic echinococcosis and hepatoblastoma (P < 0.001). Hepatic CE and hepatoblastoma showed a higher proportion of cystic degeneration [≥50% (54.5%, 12/22), and between 0% and <50% (47.2%, 17/36, respectively)], while hepatic AE predominantly showed no cystic degeneration (88.9%, 8/9). Clear boundaries were most commonly seen in hepatic CE lesions (95.5%, 21/22), while unclear boundaries were more frequent in hepatic AE lesions (88.9%, 8/9) (P < 0.05). Calcification was more prevalent in hepatic AE compared to hepatic CE and hepatoblastoma (P < 0.05). Hepatoblastoma exhibited richer color Doppler signals (94.4%, 34/36) compared to hepatic CE and AE (P < 0.05). CEUS was performed on two hepatic echinococcosis and nine hepatoblastoma lesions. On CEUS, one hepatic AE lesion showed peripheral hyperenhancement in the arterial phase, while one hepatic CE lesion showed no significant enhancement. In hepatoblastoma, nine lesions demonstrated hyperenhancement in the arterial phase and hypoenhancement in the late phase.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the value of ultrasound in differentiating hepatic echinococcosis from hepatoblastoma in children. Hepatic CE typically manifests as a well-defined cystic or cystic-solid mass, while hepatic AE often presents as an ill-defined cystic-solid or solid mass with diffuse calcifications. Conversely, hepatoblastoma appears as a partially well-defined cystic-solid or solid mass with abundant color Doppler signals within and around the lesion.
Secondary neoplasms in survivors of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma: a single-center, retrospective study
Authors: Ushida Eri , Toyoda Hidemi , Kohso Atsushi , Okumura Yosuke , Niwa Kaori , Ito Takahiro , Morimoto Mari , Hanaki Ryo , Amano Keishiro , Iwamoto Shotaro , Deguchi Takao , Hori Hiroki , Hirayama Masahiro
Published: January 2025

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)-based therapeutic regimens have markedly improved the survival of children with ALL and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL). However, survivors are at risk of secondary neoplasms. Few studies on such secondary neoplasms have been conducted outside of Europe and the United States. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of, risk factors for, and outcomes of secondary neoplasms in long-term survivors of ALL and LBL at a tertiary pediatric oncology center in Mie prefecture, Japan.

Procedure

We retrospectively reviewed 188 patients with ALL and LBL who were treated with an ALL-based therapeutic regimen at Mie University Hospital from January 1, 1977 to December 31, 2022 and followed up.

Results

Ten patients developed secondary neoplasms, with 10-year and 20-year cumulative incidences of 2.9% [standard error (SE) = 1.5%] and 5.5% (SE = 2.3%), respectively. The median interval between the primary-cancer diagnosis and secondary-neoplasm diagnosis was 18.5 years (range: 7.8–41.7 years). All 10 secondary neoplasms were central nervous system (CNS) tumors (6 meningiomas and 4 high-grade gliomas). Radiotherapy (p = 0.007) and CNS involvement in the primary cancer (p < 0.001) increased the risk of secondary neoplasms among long-term survivors. Gliomas occurred significantly earlier than meningiomas (p = 0.047), and three patients died of secondary neoplasms (all gliomas).

Conclusions

As secondary gliomas occurred earlier than meningiomas and are associated with poor outcomes, physicians should take great pains to minimize their risk to improve long-term survival and quality of life.
Molecular mechanism underlying cardioprotective effect of dehydroepiandrosterone on endoplasmic reticulum stress induced apoptosis in human vascular smooth muscle cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Zhu Ye , Wei Junxiu , Yang Xin , Zhu Wei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms involved in the cardioprotective effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) -mediated apoptosis in human vascular smooth muscle cells (HVSMCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

Material and methods

Various concentrations of Dithiothreitol (DTT) were used to induce ERS-mediated apoptosis. DHEA was utilized to inhibit the apoptotic effects of DTT, while estrogen receptor (ER) antagonists ICI 182,780 and G15, the androgen receptor (AR) antagonist flutamide and the aromatase inhibitor letrozole were used to identify the receptors activated during DHEA treatment in HVSMCs and HUVECs. Flow cytometry assessed the apoptotic rate, and Western blotting analysis evaluated the expression levels of ERS-related proteins GRP78 and PERK, and the apoptotic protein marker CHOP. Furthermore, the primary receptor signaling pathways were identified using signaling pathway blockers: LY294002 (PI3K blocker), SP600125 (JNK blocker), and U0126 (ERK1/2 blocker).

Results

In the DTT pretreatment group (0.8 mmol/L, for 8 h), the expressions of GRP78 and CHOP were significantly up regulated, indicating that an optimal ERS model was successfully established. Additionally, 10-4 mmol/L DHEA significantly inhibited the DTT-induced upregulation of GRP78 and CHOP. The results also demonstrated that the apoptotic rate in the DTT group was increased, while DHEA significantly reduced this rate. The addition of ER antagonists ICI 182,780 and G15 to HVSMCs reversed the effects of DHEA; however, the aromatase inhibitor letrozole and the AR antagonist flutamide did not reverse this effect. Notably, the use of the JNK inhibitor SP600125, the PI3K inhibitor LY294002, and the ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126 antagonized the protective effects of DHEA, with SP600125 showing the most significant impact on both HVSMCs and HUVECs.

Conclusion

Our study has identified a novel mechanism underlying the cardioprotective effects of DHEA. Specifically, DHEA may mitigate ERS-induced cell apoptosis by activating estrogen receptors ERα, ERβ, and GPER via the activated JNK pathway.
Compound identification of Shuangxinfang and its potential mechanisms in the treatment of myocardial infarction with depression: insights from LC-MS/MS and bioinformatic prediction
Authors: Sun Yize , Zhao Haibin , Wang Zheyi
Published: January 2025

Background

Patients with myocardial infarction (MI) have a high incidence of depression, which deteriorates the cardiac function and increases the risk of cardiovascular events. Shuangxinfang (Psycho-cardiology Formula, PCF) was proved to possess antidepressant and cardioprotective effects post MI. However, the compounds of PCF remain unidentified, and the pertinent mechanism is still not systematic. The purpose of this study is to determine the ingredients of PCF, further to probe the underlying mechanism for MI with depression.

Methods

The compounds of PCF were qualitatively identified by LC-MS/MS. The optimal dosage for lavage with the PCF solution in rats was determined to be 1 mL/100 g/day for a duration of 5 days. We also detected the PCF components migrating to blood in the control and model rats. Then the targets of PCF compounds were searched on Swiss target database, and the targets of depression and MI were predicted on TTD, OMIM, GeneCards, DrugBank and PharmGkb database. All the targets were intersected to construct the Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network on Metascape platform and the herb-compound-target (HCT) network on Cytoscape, to identify the hub targets. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were conducted on DAVID platform. Molecular docking was modeled on AutoDock Vina software.

Results

There were 142 bioactive compounds from PCF acting on 270 targets in a synergistic way. And a total of seven components migrating to blood were identified, including Miltionone I, Neocryptotanshinone, Danshenxinkun A, Ferulic acid, Valerophenone, Vanillic acid and Senkyunolide D. Then SRC and MAPK3 were obtained as the hub proteins by degree value in PPI network, and P2RY12 was picked out as seed proteins ranked by scores from MCODES. Further analysis of biological process and signaling pathways also revealed the significance of ERK/MAPK. Statistical analyses (e.g., GO and KEGG pathway enrichment, PPI network analysis) demonstrated the significance of the identified targets and pathways (p < 0.05). Molecular docking results showed that the binding energies were all less than −5 kcal/mol. The stability of Neocryptotanshinone possessed the lowest binding energy to MAPK3.

Conclusion

We identified PCF’s bioactive compounds and predicted its therapeutic mechanism for MI with depression using LC-MS/MS and bioinformatics. Key targets SRC, MAPK3, and seed protein P2RY12 were crucial for PCF’s cardio-neuroprotective effects. Neocryptotanshinone showed the strongest binding to MAPK3, suggesting it as a pivotal active ingredient. These findings offer new insights and targets for future research on PCF.
A current review on animal models of anti-asthmatic drugs screening
Authors: Singh Shivam , Kularia Sunita , Shukla Shivakshi , Singh Mithilesh , Kumar Manish , Sharma Ashish Kumar
Published: January 2025

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory condition characterised by airway constriction, smooth muscle spasm, and severe morbidity. It affects around 300 million people globally, with children being especially vulnerable. Despite its worldwide effect, the invention of innovative asthma medicines has been slow over the last 5 decades, leaving significant unmet requirements in asthma care. Although intriguing medicines have demonstrated efficacy in animal models, many fail to fulfil safety and effectiveness requirements in human trials, highlighting the critical need for more predictive models that better transfer to human results. This comprehensive review investigates the mechanisms and efficacy of anti-asthmatic drugs using both genetic and conventional animal models. Both genetic and traditional models of anti-asthmatic agents, their characteristics, and their significance are summarized as: In-Vitro Animal Models: Histamine receptor assay, Cell Culture Method, WST Assay, Spasmolytic Activity of the Lungs of Guinea Pigs, Airway and Vascular Responses to an Isolated Lung, The Isolated Perfused Guinea Pig Trachea’s Reactivity. In-Vivo Models: In vivo small animal models, Broncho Spasmolytic Activity in anaesthetized Guinea Pigs, Guinea Pigs Respiratory and Vascular Dysfunction Caused by Arachidonic Acid or platelet-activated factor (PAF), Guinea Pig Asphyxia Induced by Serotonin Aerosol and Anaphylactic Microshock, Guinea Pigs Under Anaesthesia: Histamine-Induced Bronchoconstriction, Microshock in Rabbits and Pneumotachography in Guinea Pigs, Guinea Pig Bronchial Hyperactivity, Guinea Pig Airway Microvascular Leakage, Mice With Inflammatory Airways. Conclusion: This review focusses on the benefits and limitations of current animal models in asthma research, emphasising the need for more sophisticated, predictive models to decrease translational failures. By critically evaluating these models, the review emphasises their importance in directing anti-asthmatic drug development and highlights the urgent need for innovation to bridge the gap between preclinical success and clinical efficacy.
The spectrum-efficacy correlation of Kai-Xin-San for cognition of Aβ42 transgenic Drosophila and verification of its active ingredients
Authors: Wu Jinfu , Sun Hang , Zhao Yiyang , Lian Lian , Bian Hongsheng , Guo Yong , Li Dan , Huang Lili
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study aims to establish the fingerprint spectra of Kai-Xin-San (KXS) and investigate its spectrum-effect relationship in treating Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods

Initially, the fingerprints of 15 batches of KXS were established and analyzed using HPLC, with the method’s precision, stability, and repeatability thoroughly evaluated. Subsequently, the effects of the 15 batches of KXS were assessed in an olfactory escape memory experiment, utilizing Aβ42 transgenic drosophila as a model. Finally, the spectrum-effect relationship between the KXS fingerprint and memory improvement was analyzed, with the active ingredients subjected to validation testing.

Results

The results identified seventeen common peaks in the fingerprint, and eight active components were determined: polygalaxanthone III, 3-6-disinapoylsucrose, ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Rb1, β-asarone, α-asarone, dehydrotumulosic acid, and dehydropachymic acid. Treatment with KXS (1%, for 4 days) significantly enhanced the performance index of Aβ42 flies in the olfactory experiment. Both spectrum-effect analysis and validation tests indicated that polygalaxanthone III, ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Rb1, β-asarone, and α-asarone were positively correlated with the performance index and improved the performance index in the olfactory experiment. The HPLC fingerprint method for KXS demonstrated excellent precision, accuracy, and reproducibility, making it suitable for quality evaluation and control of KXS. Polygalaxanthone III, ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Rb1, β-asarone, and α-asarone are identified as potential active ingredients of KXS for anti-AD effects.

Discussion

These findings provide an experimental basis for developing new drugs based on KXS and its active ingredient combinations.
The effects of 8 weeks of multi-directional movement training combined with balance training on the change of direction of young table tennis players
Authors: Chen Qianqian , Li Yanfei , Heng Xinchen , Zhao Lei , Wu Bin
Published: January 2025

Background

Change of direction (COD) skills are crucial for athletic performance in sports such as table tennis. Improving COD can enhance overall agility and responsiveness during competition.

Objective

To investigate the effects of an 8-week multi-directional movement training combined with balance training on the COD performance of young table tennis players.

Methods

Thirty young table tennis players from the same team were randomly assigned to two groups: the multi-directional movement training combined with the balance training group (MB, n = 15) and the control group (CON, n = 15). The MB group underwent balance training on unstable surfaces, while the CON group performed the same balance exercises on stable ground. Both groups participated in the same multi-directional movement training program, which was conducted three times a week with 24–48 h of recovery between sessions for a duration of 8 weeks.

Results

Significant group effects were observed in the modified agility test, non-dominant leg, dominant leg, and push block side lunge right test (p < 0.05). No significant group effects were found for the hexagon agility test, 3 m side slide test, A-movement test, or the whole table variable speed pendulum test (p > 0.05). Significant time-by-group interactions were noted for all variables (p < 0.05), indicating that improvements over time differed between the MB and CON groups. In the MB group, significant improvements were observed across all tests post-intervention, with high effect sizes (Partial η2 values ranging from 0.361 to 0.815). In contrast, the CON group showed significant time effects in only a few tests, including the 3 m side slide test, A-movement test, modified agility test, and push block side lunge right test (p < 0.05), with no significant time effects for other variables.

Conclusion

This study aimed to explore whether multi-directional movement training, when combined with balance exercises, could improve COD skills in young table tennis players. The results will inform future training strategies for enhancing agility and movement efficiency in table tennis athletes.
Development of new powdery mildew resistant lines in garden pea (Pisum sativum L.) using induced mutagenesis and validation of resistance for the er1 and er2 gene through molecular markers
Authors: Sharma Akhilesh , Banyal Devinder Kumar , Dhole Vinod Janardan , Bansuli  , Rana Ranbir Singh , Kumar Rajesh , Kumar Prabhat , Kumar Nimit , Srishti  , Prashar Arshia , Singh Vivek , Sharma Anoushka
Published: January 2025

Powdery mildew (PM) caused by Erysiphie pisi Syd. is the most devastating disease of pea, affecting fresh pea production as well as the quality of the marketable harvest worldwide. The efforts were made to develop PM-resistant mutants of popular pea varieties “Lincoln” and “Azad P-1” through induced mutations by following gamma irradiation (300, 400, 500, and 600 Gy) and chemical mutagenesis, i.e., ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) (0.3% and 0.4%). The screening of 13,868 M2 progenies at Kukumseri (summer season) followed by M3 generation at Palampur (winter season) resulted in the isolation of six putative PM-resistant mutants. The rigorous evaluation of these progenies under in vivo (field screening) and in vitro (artificial screening under greenhouse conditions and using the detached leaf assay method) conditions over the years resulted in the isolation of three PM-resistant mutants, viz., L-40-1014, L-0.3-139, and AP-0.3-129. SSR markers “PSMPSAD60 d” and “PSMPA5 c” linked to the er-1 gene indicated the presence of the “er1” gene in the mutant L-0.3-139 while the er-2 gene-linked SCAR marker “ScX171400” and SSR marker “AD141” indicated the probability of the “er-2” gene in mutant L-40-1014. The known markers linked to PM resistance genes could not be validated in the mutant AP-0.3-129, suggested to identify new markers linked to PM resistance. These PM-resistant mutants can be promising candidates as the new source of resistance for future pea breeding programs.
Trade-off strategies between growth and defense of spring ephemeral plants in early spring
Authors: Pan Liben , Wang Tianqi , Gavrikov Vladimir L. , Guo Xiaorui , Mu Liqiang , Tang Zhonghua
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Spring ephemeral plants represent a unique ecological category of herbaceous plants, characterized by early blooming and vivid flowers with significant ornamental value. Understanding the adaptive strategies of spring ephemerals is crucial for the introduction and cultivation of early spring plants, as well as for optimizing light energy utilization and nutrient cycling within ecosystems.

Methods

We evaluated 26 functional traits across four spring ephemerals and four spring non-ephemeral plants along an elevation gradient. By establishing a plant functional trait network, we examined the adaptation strategies of early spring plants at different elevations and compared the differences in adaptation strategies between two types of plants.

Results

Spring ephemerals exhibited higher concentrations of carbon and nitrogen, lower concentrations of carbohydrates, higher edge density and modularity in trait networks, and stronger linkages between defense traits. Plants at higher elevations demonstrated higher leaf dry matter content and leaf total flavonoid concentration, and lower nitrogen concentration, influenced by temperature, precipitation, and soil nutrients.

Discussion

These results demonstrated that spring ephemerals have a strong nutrient uptake capacity, and adopt resource competition strategies to rapidly accumulate nutrients and reproduce. The plants at higher elevations adopt more conservative strategies, with trait networks showing increased modularity, edge density, and closer correlations among traits to enhance resource utilization. This study provides new insights into the adaptive strategies of spring ephemerals by demonstrating how plants allocate resources for growth and defense through the regulation of trait variation and correlations among traits.
Context-dependent memory in the real world: the role of frequency and context dwell time
Authors: Choi Yura , Kim Kawon , Moon Sunwoo , Jung Geunseong , Cha Jae-Hyuk , Yim Hyungwook
Published: January 2025

We investigated the context-dependent memory effect outside of the laboratory in order to examine whether the effect impacts everyday memory retrieval. We also examined various factors that may interact with the context-dependent memory effect such as frequency and context dwell time. In the experiment, we used a smartphone app to track participant’s GPS locations for 5 weeks. Participants, during their daily lives, were then asked to recall their locations at a specific date and time by choosing from all locations visited in the previous 5 weeks. Results demonstrated the existence of the context-dependent memory effect in a real-world setting, with low-frequency locations showing a stronger context-dependent memory effect—benefiting more from the matched context. We also found that for low-frequency locations, the benefit of the context-dependent memory effect increased as the participant spent more time in the context (context dwelling time). The study provides a novel way to examine the context-dependent memory effect outside of the laboratory, which not only enables researchers to measure an individual’s genuine memories in a more ecologically valid way, but also investigates factors that would be challenging to examine in the laboratory.
2-Brain Regulation for Improved Neuroprotection during Early Development (2-BRAINED): a translational hyperscanning research project
Authors: Billeci Lucia , Riva Valentina , Capelli Elena , Grumi Serena , Paola Pili Miriam , Cassa Maddalena , Siri Eleonora , Roberti Elisa , Borgatti Renato , Provenzi Livio
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Very preterm (VPT) birth is a major risk condition for child development and parental wellbeing, mainly due to multiple sources of stress (e.g., separation and pain exposure) during the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay. Early video-feedback (VF) interventions proved effective in promoting VOT infants’ development and parental wellbeing. Electroencephalography (EEG) hyperscanning allows the assessment of brain-to-brain co-regulation during live interaction between infants and parents, offering promising insights into the mechanisms behind the interactive benefits of early VF interventions.

Goals

This study aimed to compare indices of brain-to-brain co-regulation between dyads of full-term (FT) and VPT infants interacting with their mothers and investigate the effect of an early post-discharge VF intervention on the brain-to-brain co-regulation indices of VPT dyads.

Methods and analysis

VPT and FT dyads will be enrolled at birth, and the former will be randomly allocated to one of two arms: VF intervention or care as usual. Short-term effectiveness will be assessed through ratings of mother–infant interaction videotaped before and after the VF intervention or care as usual. Mothers of VPT and FT infants will report on their mental state, parenting stress and bonding, and infant temperament and sensory profile at 3 and 6 months (corrected age, CA). At 9 months CA, all dyads will participate in a lab-based EEG-hyperscanning paradigm to assess brain-to-brain co-regulation through phase-locking value (PLV) and other explorative indices.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was funded by the Italian Ministry of Health and received approval by the Ethics Committee of Pavia (Italy) and participating hospitals. Research findings will be reported in scientific publications, presented at international conferences, and disseminated to the general public.

Study registration number

GR-2021-12375213 (Italian Ministry of Health registry).
Exploring neurodevelopmental concerns: insights from a public neuropediatric learning disabilities multiprofessional outpatient facility in Brazil
Authors: Augusto Janaína Aparecida de Oliveira , Ferreira Thalita Francielli Lopes , Arduini Rodrigo Genaro , Bastos Talita Meneses de Almeida , Campanha Nádia Santana Pereira , Fornasari Rita de Cássia Coutinho Vieira , Stella Patrícia Regina Flaviano , Simão Adriana Nobre de Paula , Moraes Joyce Nelly Leal de , Ciasca Sylvia Maria
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Specialized public services for attending children and adolescents with complaints of scholar difficulties are scarce in Brazil. It is important to recognize this target population and understand its demands, so these facilities may be able to meet their needs and offer qualified and effective services. The main objective of this study was to characterize the profile of neuropediatric patients cared for in a reference outpatient facility in Brazil.

Method

Data were extracted from children’s and adolescent’s records, corresponding to assessments carried out between March 2017 to March 2023.

Results

From 220 selected records, 70% had complaints related to learning difficulties and 79.1% to attention disorders. The most frequent diagnoses were attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (30%), intellectual deficiency (19.1%), and learning-specific disorder (17.7%). A significant association with scholarship was found between motor agitation [χ2(9) = 29.8; p < 0.001], behavioral complaints [χ2(9) = 16.2; p = 0.050], and language difficulties [χ2(9) = 17.0; p = 0.043]. Results have indicated significant differences relating to diagnosis and gender: boys had a higher prevalence for dyslexia [χ2(1) = 4.44; p = 0.035], intellectual deficiency [χ2(1) = 8.38; p = 0.004], and autism spectrum disorder [χ2(1) = 9.29; p = 0.002], when compared to girls.

Conclusion

These results corroborate international findings over complaints regarding learning difficulties and correlated disturbances, in addition to the existing comorbidities between different diagnoses related to neurodevelopment and scholar acquisitions.
The impact of cultural origin on the psychiatric expertise in Switzerland: a focus on sexual violence illustrated by two criminal cases
Authors: De Pieri Marco , Suardi Neva
Published: January 2025

Cultural biases and integration in novel socio-geographic contexts are relevant factors for the understanding of dynamics beneath sexual violence, and possibly play a role in modifying responsibility and perpetrators treatment. Here we offer a conceptual analysis of the relevant literature and two case study. Cultural factors influence power dynamics and individual values, impacting the occurrence of sexual violence; the understanding of “coercion” varies across cultures, and cultural legitimization may ensue. The consequences of sexual assault also differ, with shame prevailing in socio-centric societies and guilt in ego-centric societies. Rape and gender-based violence is influenced by masculinity and femininity concepts, the former identified with power. Dominance, rather than sexual gratification, can lead to sexual violence, which could also be a “male backlash” against gender equality. Biological theories link sexual violence to genetic factors; a psychodynamic perspective suggests an unconscious social reproduction of masculine culture and delves into possible explanations for violent behavior. Acculturation strategies and acculturative stress are explored, with a focus on Berry’s strategies and on Camilleri’s model of identity in intercultural situations. The impact of cultural factors on responsibility is discussed, highlighting variability in criminal laws and attitudes towards cultural offenses in different countries. The analysis of two criminal cases accused of rape, revealed common and diverging elements. Both individuals come from favorable socio-economic backgrounds, and lacked of prior or present psychiatric diagnoses. Integration difficulties, psychosexual attitudes, and the improper application of cultural codes played a crucial role. In conclusion, anthropological and ethnopsychiatric knowledge should be integrate into forensic assessments. Early detection of non-acculturation elements is need to prevent criminal behaviors, and a diagnostic instrument as a validated rating scale should be implemented.
Political economics in health and implications for neurosurgery diseases
Authors: Han Yi , Huang Yutao
Published: January 2025

The field of political economics in health has a significant and far-reaching impact on public health. It encompasses a diverse range of interconnected domains, including the economy, welfare, the environment, food and drug safety, pollution emissions, occupational safety, the quality of medical services, consumer rights, public health policy, healthcare policy, scientific research, and marketing management. In this review, we examine the global influence of political economics on health outcomes and delineate the impact of prevalent neurosurgical conditions on individual and collective healthcare resources. This review will discuss the effects of political-economic factors on the prevalence and treatment of neurosurgical diseases, including stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and brain malignant tumors. Furthermore, the current challenges and future directions will be discussed. We intend this review to facilitate the exchange and integration of political economics, public health, and neurosurgery, provide a foundation for policy development, enhance the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of neurosurgical diseases, and ultimately promote public health.
Lack of sex- and gender-disaggregated data in diagnostics: findings from a scoping review of five tracer conditions
Authors: Upadhyay Vishwanath , Gangwar Rishabh , Chappuis Gabrielle Landry , Kohli Mikashmi
Published: January 2025

Background

Sex and gender can affect all aspects of health-related behavior, yet there is limited information on how they influence diagnosis of any health condition. This scoping review examined the extent to which sex- and gender-disaggregated data on diagnostics are available for five tracer conditions: tuberculosis, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), diabetes, malaria, and schistosomiasis.

Methods

Publications were searched between 2000 and 2022 on PubMed and Google Scholar and screened for relevance. Extracted data were analysed using descriptive quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Results

We identified 29 relevant articles for tuberculosis, four for diabetes, six for schistosomiasis, eight for COVID-19, and three for malaria. For tuberculosis, most studies looked at gender-based barriers to diagnosis and disparities in health-seeking behaviors that predominantly affected women. For diabetes, studies noted that women had lower odds of being screened for prediabetes and potentially lower quality of care versus men. For schistosomiasis, studies suggested lower sensitivity diagnostic methods among women than men and low awareness of the disease. Studies suggest that women are less likely to be diagnosed for COVID-19 in certain settings. Studies on malaria reported that women show different health-seeking behaviors to men.

Conclusion

This scoping review highlights a concerning lack of sex- and gender-disaggregated data on diagnostics. Consequently, further work is required to develop and implement an appropriate framework to assess gender and sex-related data around testing and diagnosis.
Genetic diversity and transmission pattern of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis based on whole-genome sequencing in Wuhan, China
Authors: Wei Liqing , Chen Jun , Deng Zhen , Zhang Zefang , Zhang Zhengbin , Duan Qionghong
Published: January 2025

Background

Investigating the molecular epidemiological characteristics of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in China’s moderate-burden regions, such as Wuhan, is crucial for understanding and controlling disease transmission.

Materials and methods

This study analyzed MDR-TB isolates from pulmonary tuberculosis cases registered at Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital in 2017. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was used to identify resistance-conferring mutations, examine their associations with specific Mycobacterium tuberculosis lineages or sublineages, and assess clustering profiles.

Results

Among the 149 analyzed strains, the most prevalent mutations associated with resistance to 11 anti-tuberculosis drugs were identified as follows: rpoB Ser450Leu (59.73%, rifampicin), katG Ser315Thr (62.42%, isoniazid), embB Met306Val (42.86%, ethambutol), rpsL Lys43Arg (68.13%, streptomycin), pncA Trp68Arg (10.53%, pyrazinamide), gyrA Asp94Gly (22.50%, fluoroquinolones), and rrs 1401A > G (50.00–100.00%, second-line injectable aminoglycosides). Additional mutations were detected in fabG1 c-15C > T (42.86%, ethionamide) and thyX c-16C > T (21.43%, p-aminosalicylic acid). Notably, rare mutations absent from the WHO mutation catalog, such as ahpC c-52C > T and rpsL Lys43Thr, were also observed. The mutation frequency of embB Met306Ile was significantly higher in Lineage 4 (L4) strains than in Lineage 2 (L2) strains (p = 0.0150), while the rpsL Lys43Arg mutation frequency was lower in L4 compared to L2 (p = 0.0333). A total of 31 MDR MTB Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates formed clusters, resulting in a clustering rate of 20.81% and a recent transmission rate of 11.41%. The clustering rates between L4 and L2 strains were not significantly different (χ2 = 0.0017, p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The genetic diversity of MDR-TB in Wuhan demonstrates unique characteristics, with evidence of localized transmission. These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen measures to detect early cases of MDR-TB and control transmission of MDR-TB in the region.
Effect of Tai Chi combined with music therapy on the cognitive function in older adult individuals with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Zhou Chunhui
Published: January 2025

Background

With the global aging population increasing, cognitive impairment among the older adult, particularly Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), has garnered remarkable attention. MCI, often a precursor to dementia, presents an opportunity for early intervention. This study investigates the effects of Tai Chi combined with music therapy on the cognitive function in older adult individuals with MCI.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, 66 older adult participants with MCI were randomly assigned to one of the following three groups: a Control Group (CG), a Tai Chi Group (TCG), and a Tai Chi Combined with Music Group (TCMG), with 22 participants in each group. Cognitive function was evaluated over a 12-week intervention using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Stroop Color and Word Test.

Results

Baseline characteristics showed no significant differences among the groups. The TCG and TCMG exhibited significant improvements after 16-week intervention. The participants with TCG group improved in MoCA score (P = 0.005), attention accuracy (P = 0.031), and delayed recall (P = 0.003). The participants with TCMG showed notable enhancements in MoCA (P = 0.000), MMSE (P = 0.001), attention accuracy (P = 0.025), visuospatial and executive functions (P = 0.001), naming (P = 0.014), abstraction (P = 0.020), and delayed recall (P = 0.006). The CG experienced decreased language repetition ability (P = 0.042) and delayed recall (P = 0.030).

Conclusion

Twelve weeks of Tai Chi combined with music therapy substantially improved cognitive function in older adult individuals with MCI. This combined intervention is more effective than Tai Chi alone, highlighting its potential as a non-pharmacological approach to enhance cognitive health in the aging population.
Seroprevalence against SARS-CoV-2 after booster vaccination in a prison in Alicante (Spain)
Authors: Montagud Ana C. , Moragues Raul , Vicente-Alcalde Nancy , Montagud Emilia , Hurtado-Sánchez José Antonio , Tuells José
Published: January 2025

Background

Confinement conditions in prison communities are associated with increased susceptibility to infectious outbreaks. The COVID-19 pandemic has been characterized by high transmissibility and clinical severity resulting in a high number of infections and deaths worldwide. Vaccination has been a crucial tool in mitigating its devastating effects. The aim of this study is to asses the prevalence of antibodies against the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 in vaccinated prisoners and staff at a specific prison in Alicante.

Methods

A cross-sectional epidemiological study was designed for the population in scope using a rapid lateral flow immunochromatography serological test, conducted on July 27, 2023. Demographic and clinical variables were collected through a questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 29.0 software.

Results

A total of 560 people participated in the study; the predominant profile was men (77.3%) with an average age of 45.7 years. 71.4% of subjects were prisoners and 28.6% were prison staff. Regarding the detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies obtained through serological test, 60.9% of the sample gave a positive result. 69.1% of participants received the last dose in 2022 or later and 62.2% received booster doses. The vaccines administered in the last dose were Biontech/Pfizer and Moderna in 88.6% of the cases. 59.5% of sample had suffered from COVID-19 and 67.0% did not have any clinical comorbidity. In the regression analysis, it was observed that the variables with a stronger statistical relationship with presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were: the number of years since last vaccine dose was received (aOR: 0.08; 95%CI: 0.05; 0.16) the number of vaccine doses received (aOR: 4.8; 95%CI: 2.9; 8.0) and presenting any comorbidity (aOR: 4.3; 95%CI: 2.4; 8.0). The staff received more booster doses and obtained a better response to seropositivity, with 72.5% of anti-SARS-CoV-2 result positive while prisoners reached 56.3%.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 vaccination status within the prison community following the initiation of primary immunization and subsequent booster doses, shows a low immunization coverage (60.9%), which is below expectations given the immunization strategies implemented since the start of the pandemic. There are notable differences in vaccination rates between prison staff and prisoners. These disparities are concerning, and authorities responsible for prison public health should take a more proactive approach to ensuring vaccination among prisoners.
Co-design of the neurodevelopment assessment scale
Authors: Wong Tsz Ying , Azim Syeda Ishra , Lam-Cassettari Christa , Lin Ping-I. , Mendoza Diaz Antonio , Montgomery Alicia , Masi Anne , Mallitt Kylie-Ann , Whitehouse Andrew , Dadds Mark R. , Eapen Valsamma
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) have high comorbidity rates and shared etiology. Nevertheless, NDD assessment is diagnosis-driven and focuses on symptom profiles of individual disorders, which hinders diagnosis and treatment. There is also no evidence-based, standardized transdiagnostic approach currently available to provide a full clinical picture of individuals with NDDs. The pressing need for transdiagnostic assessment led to the development of the Neurodevelopment Assessment Scale (NAS).

Methods

This paper describes the co-design process used in the development of NAS prototype with stakeholders including individuals with NDDs, parents of children with NDDs, and health professionals.

Results and discussion

Results indicated stakeholder consensus that NAS would be useful for NDD assessment, and included recommendations for fine-tuning the way some questions were asked (e.g., child's diagnoses), question flow (e.g., branching logic), and the language and presentation of the prototype (e.g., readability). Stakeholders also suggested the administration protocol should be flexible using electronic, face-to-face, online formats etc.
A bibliometric analysis of food security and urbanization: insights and implications
Authors: Wei Yujun , Wei Xiaokun , Ye Zhonghua , Fan Jie
Published: January 2025

This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the intersection between Food Security and Urbanization (FSU), aiming to identify key themes, emerging trends, and research gaps. Using statistical analysis, co-word analysis, and social network analysis, we map the intellectual landscape and global collaboration networks in FSU research. The findings reveal the dominant contributions from the United States and China, with China’s extensive international collaborations highlighting opportunities for future research. A key observation is the disconnect between urbanization and food security studies, underscoring the need for a more integrated approach to research. The study extends Sustainable Development Theory and Urban Metabolism Theory by incorporating socio-economic and environmental dimensions, demonstrating that urbanization’s impact on food security differs across developed and developing countries. The research highlights emerging interdisciplinary themes, such as urban agriculture and socio-economic resilience, aligning with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). This study lays the foundation for future research on the synergies between urbanization and food security, promoting a more sustainable development trajectory.
Information manipulation on TikTok and its relation to American users' beliefs about China
Authors: Finkelstein Danit , Yanovsky Sonia , Zucker Jacob , Jagdeep Anisha , Vasko Collin , Jagdeep Ankita , Jussim Lee , Finkelstein Joel
Published: January 2025

Three studies explored how TikTok, a China-owned social media platform, may be manipulated to conceal content critical of China while amplifying narratives that align with Chinese Communist Party objectives. Study I employed a user journey methodology, wherein newly created accounts on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube were used to assess the nature and prevalence of content related to sensitive Chinese Communist Party (CCP) issues, specifically Tibet, Tiananmen Square, Uyghur rights, and Xinjiang. The results revealed that content critical of China was made far less available than it was on Instagram and YouTube. Study II, an extension of Study I, investigated whether the prevalence of content that is pro- and anti-CCP on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube aligned with user engagement metrics (likes and comments), which social media platforms typically use to amplify content. The results revealed a disproportionately high ratio of pro-CCP to anti-CCP content on TikTok, despite users engaging significantly more with anti-CCP content, suggesting propagandistic manipulation. Study III involved a survey administered to 1,214 Americans that assessed their time spent on social media platforms and their perceptions of China. Results indicated that TikTok users, particularly heavy users, exhibited significantly more positive attitudes toward China's human rights record and expressed greater favorability toward China as a travel destination. These results are discussed in context of a growing body of literature identifying a massive CCP propaganda bureaucracy devoted to controlling the flow of information in ways that threaten free speech and free inquiry.
Water security reframed using Water System Justice and Earth system boundaries, foundations, and corridor
Authors: Gupta Joyeeta , Bosch Hilmer J. , van Vliet Luc
Published: January 2025

In the Anthropocene, when human activity, including the overuse and over-pollution of water, is leading to the destabilization of the global hydrological cycle, the concept of water security represents both a threat to and opportunity for international cooperation on water issues. Hence, this paper asks: How does Water System Justice redefine the content of water security in the Anthropocene? In this perspective paper we argue that water security, when narrowly understood by states and multinationals as the need for control over water, can justify the securitization and commodification of water. This in turn can lead to practices such as water grabbing creating and perpetuating injustices for the poor and marginalized. To counter this, we propose to conceptually link water security to water justice through an operationalized framework for Water System Justice (WSJ). This framework includes ideal, recognition, and epistemic justice, as well as integrating the 3I’s (Interspecies, Intergenerational and Intragenerational justice), and procedural and substantive justice. Applied quantitatively, this framework provides safe and just quantitative boundaries to water use (climate change and nutrients), and quantifies what is necessary to meet the minimum human rights of people worldwide for water (for WASH, food, energy, infrastructure) and translates this into pressures on the water system using the same units—thereby delineating a corridor of water that can be equitably shared by people. Adding our Water System Justice framework enriches water security by providing a systemic perspective of interdependence from the local to the global level.
It's not always easy to buy the idea: strategies, perceptions, and implications of learner-centered teaching in coach education
Authors: Salles William das Neves , Martins Lincoln Cruz , Nascimento Juarez Vieira do , Milistetd Michel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The study aims to investigate the development of a learner-centered teaching (LCT), a constructivist-based proposal focused on the learner and the learning process, in a university-based coach education program (CEP) through an action research (AR) approach.

Methods

Participants were six students, the researcher and the professor of a Sport Pedagogy course of a public Brazilian university. The classes were taught in a collaborative way between the professor and the researcher, and rubrics were used to guide the LCT development process.

Results and discussion

The proposal was developed gradually and progressively in the course, through diversified teaching strategies that prioritized student interaction and reflection. Facilitators were constantly concerned to ensure that students' perspectives and knowledge were valued during the construction of new teaching content, contributing to align the course with the LCT perspective. While at the beginning of the course the dimensions function of content and role of the teacher were emphasized, in subsequent classes greater attention was devoted to increasing students' responsibility for learning, balance the power between facilitators and students, and promote integrated, authentic assessment processes. To advance the investigated CEP, we recommend the LCT development in other courses of the program, enabling the consolidation of a curricular culture aligned to the constructivist perspective.