bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas VIII pada Materi Sistem Pernapasan Manusia
Authors: Djati Shintani Rambu , Makaborang Yohana , Ndjoeroemana Yohana
Published: July 2023

This study aims to improve the learning outcomes of class VIII students of SMP Negeri 2 Waingapu through the application of the Problem Based Learning learning model. This type of research is Classroom Action Research (PTK) which is conducted in two cycles, which consists of four stages, namely: planning, implementation, observation stage, and reflection stage. Before going to cycle I and cycle II, the researcher first conducted a pre-cycle. The subjects of this study were 31 students in class VIII of SMP Negeri 2 Waingapu for the academic year 2022/2023, consisting of 17 male students and 14 female students. The data obtained in this study are in the form of student learning outcomes taken from the application of the Problem Based Learning learning model. The instruments used are interviews, tests, and documentation. The results of the research and data analysis in cycle I and cycle II revealed that there was an increase in the learning outcomes of class VIII students of SMP Negeri 2 Waingapu for the 2022/2023 academic year. This is indicated by an increase in the proportion of student learning outcomes in Biology lessons on the material of the human respiratory system. The results showed that the proportion of student learning outcomes in pre-cycle was 29%, cycle I was 75%, and cycle II was 90%. The conclusion of this study is that the application of the Problem Based Learning learning model can improve the learning outcomes of class VIII students of SMP Negeri 2 Waingapu.
Clinical Pathways Illustrating the Dangers of Drug Abuse-Induced Cognitive Behaviour Impairment
Authors: Mathew Chris
Published: July 2023

Pharmacology has risen to a new horizon with its many branches of clinical research and practices. One among these is the field of neuro-psycho-pharmacology. Neuroscience is the study incorporating the brain, nerves and vessels within. The brain is truly an amazing organ with many complex features and interesting feeds, which focus on many areas of expertise such as learning & cognitive developments, motor movements and many other various capabilities, which are yet to be understood. Combining the knowledge acquired through neuroscience, enabled scientists and researchers alike to understand behavioural and molecular aspect studies into one category known as psychology. This then helped scientists and pharmaceutical companies alike to research and develop drugs that could assist in conditions such as chronic depression, anxiety and various other psychotic disorders incapacitating the core cognitive developments of the brain and its associated nerves and blood vessels. This review thereby focuses on the adverse effects caused by excess consumption of certain drugs due to addictive tendencies and how this leads to impairment of cognitive behaviour.
Recent advances in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sankar Kamya , Gong Jun , Osipov Arsen , Miles Steven A. , Kosari Kambiz , Nissen Nicholas N. , Hendifar Andrew E. , Koltsova Ekaterina K. , Yang Ju Dong
Published: July 2023

Liver cancer remains a challenge of global health, being the 4th leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, and is usually precipitated by chronic viral infections (hepatitis B and C), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, heavy alcohol use, and other factors which may lead to chronic inflammation and cirrhosis of the liver. There have been significant advances in the systemic treatment options for HCC over the past decades, with several approvals of both immune checkpoint inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors in patients with preserved liver function. These advances have led to improvement in survival outcomes, with expected survival of greater than 18 months, in those with sensitive tumors, adequate liver function, and those functionally fit to receive sequential therapies. Several ongoing and promising trials are now evaluating combinational strategies with novel systemic agents and combinations of systemic therapy with locoregional therapy. In view of these trials, further advances in the treatment of HCC are foreseen in the near future.
Manajemen Sumber Daya Manusia TURNOVER INTENTION DI ANTARA LINGKUNGAN KERJA, GAYA KEPEMIMPINAN, KOMPENSASI, DAN STRES KERJA
Authors: Setiyarti Tettie - , Widiyastiti Ni Made , Trisna Wijayanthi Ida Ayu , Sundari Pipit
Published: July 2023

Keinginan untuk keluar dari sebuah organisasi atau turnover intention seorang karyawan selalu memunculkan tanda tanya besar, dan beberapa faktor yang biasanya menjadi pendorong munculnya keinginan tadi adalah lingkungan kerja, gaya kepemimpinan, kompensasi, dan stres kerja yang dialami oleh karyawan tersebut. Tujuan utama dari artikel ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh lingkungan kerja, gaya kepemimpinan, kompensasi, dan stres kerja terhadap turnover intention karyawan pada sebuah perusahaan jasa teknologi informasi. Penelitian yang dijadikan dasar ditulisnya artikel ini menggunakan PT. Baliyoni Saguna Group yang terletak di Jalan Tukad Batanghari No. 1C, Denpasar Selatan, Denpasar, Bali, sebagai studi kasus yang diteliti. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan meliputi uji validitas, uji reabilitas, analisis regresi linear berganda, uji linearitas, uji normalitas, uji heterokedastistas dan uji multikolinearitas. Penelitian tersebut menemukan pengaruh negatif dan signifikan, secara parsial antara lingkungan kerja, gaya kepemimpinan, dan kompensasi, terhadap variabel dependen, turnover intention, dan pengaruh positif dan signifikan, secara parsial antara stres kerja terhadap turnover intention.
Effects of OmniGen® PRO on ruminal fermentation, stress, and inflammation of Holstein cattle induced with a subacute ruminal acidosis
Authors: Jiang Yun , Chapman James D. , Humphrey Brooke , Garcia Miriam
Published: July 2023

The aim of our study was to examine the effects of an immunomodulatory feed additive (OmniGen® PRO, Phibro Animal Health, Teaneck, NJ) on ruminal fermentation homeostasis and biomarkers of stress and inflammation in dairy heifers following subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). Holstein heifers (n = 32, 8.4 ± 0.3 months old) were allocated to receive two treatments based on body weight (BW). Treatments were (1) control (CON; n = 16, no additive) and (2) OmniGen® PRO (OGPRO, n = 16, 10 g/100 kg BW, top-dressed). From d 1 to 69, and d 72 to 77, heifers were fed ad libitum a basal TMR formulated for early lactation. On d 70, the TMR offerings were reduced by 50% based on the intake of the previous 3 days. On d 71, heifers were fed ad libitum a starch challenge diet, which was a 50/50 mix steam-rolled barley and the basal TMR on a DM basis, to induce SARA. Rumen fluid and blood samples were collected on d 66, 71, and 73. Prior to the challenge, DMI, ADG, and feed efficiency were not affected by treatment. Following the challenge, all heifers experienced a 43% decline in DMI. Rumen pH was lower on the challenge day than pre and post challenge but was unaffected by treatment. Ruminal lactate was negligible pre and post challenge but increased on the challenge day; OGPRO reduced ruminal lactate compared to CON. At all sampling points, rumen total VFA were higher in OGPRO than in CON. The challenge caused fluctuations in the acetate to propionate ratio in CON, while OGPRO heifers had less variation. Two days post challenge, OGPRO heifers tended to have lower plasma cortisol, haptoglobin, and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) than CON heifers. The OGPRO heifers maintained the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and platelet concentration after the challenge, while their levels declined in CON. In this study, supplementing OGPRO to heifers fed an early lactation diet improved rumen fermentation measures prior to the starch challenge and reduced the negative effects of the challenge on rumen fermentation. In addition, following the challenge, indicators of systemic inflammation tended to be lower in heifers supplemented with OGPRO.
A tale of two bacteria – Bacteroides fragilis, Escherichia coli, and colorectal cancer
Authors: Lichtenstern Charles Robert , Lamichhane-Khadka Reena
Published: July 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Incidence rates among individuals under 50 years are rising, which has led to the lowering of the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 years for those at an average risk. While numerous risk factors are associated with the development of CRC, most cases contain microbial signatures representative of dysbiosis, indicating a role for the gut microbiome in disease pathogenesis. To date, most research has investigated individual members of the gut microbiota independently; however, it is widely established that microbes interact with each other in the gut. More recently, two specific species of the microbiota have revealed a pro-carcinogenic synergism in vivo. Strains of both Bacteroides fragilis and Escherichia coli have been linked to CRC in clinical studies and been shown to induce carcinogenesis in mouse models through B. fragilis toxin and colibactin, respectively. The link between these two bacteria is found within their spatial association: biofilms, or mucosal-associated microbial aggregates. In this review, we discuss the roles of B. fragilis and E. coli in healthy and diseased guts, current evidence associating each bacterium with CRC individually, and their synergistic contributions to the pathogenesis of CRC. Future investigation of CRC should focus on bacterial biofilms and additional potential pro-carcinogenic synergisms between other species of the gut microbiota to improve prevention and screening measures.
Expression and characterization of PrnC—a flavin-dependent halogenase from the pyrrolnitrin biosynthetic pathway of Pseudomonas protegens Pf-5
Authors: Gebauer Jan , Pietruszka Jörg , Classen Thomas
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The antimicrobial pyrrolnitrin from Pseudomonas strains is formed in four steps from tryptophan and comprises two flavin-dependent halogenases. Both PrnC and PrnA can carry out regioselective chlorination and bromination and are carrier protein-independent. Whilst the tryptophan halogenase PrnA has been studied in detail in the past, this study focuses on the pyrrole halogenating enzyme PrnC.

Methods: The halogenating enzyme PrnC, as well as the essential electron suppliers, the flavin reductases, have been produced soluble in E. coli. Furthermore, a screening of a rational compound library revealed that the pyrrole is essential for substrate recognition; however, the substitution pattern of the benzene ring is not limiting the catalysis.

Results and discussion: This renders PrnC to be a synthetically valuable enzyme for the synthesis of pyrrolnitrin congeners. For its natural substrate monodechloroaminopyrrolnitrin (MDA), the KM value was determined as 14.4 ± 1.2 µM and a kcat of 1.66 ± 0.02 min−1, which is comparable to other halogenases.
Influence of timing of Levosimendan administration on outcomes in cardiac surgery
Authors: Schiefenhövel Fridtjof , Berger Christian , Penkova Liubov , Grubitzsch Herko , Haller Bernhard , Meyer Alexander , Heringlake Matthias , Sander Michael , Erb Joachim M. , Balzer Felix , Treskatsch Sascha
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Though a subgroup analysis has shown improved survival for patients suffering severely reduced ventricular function undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting, RCTs were not able to demonstrate overall beneficial effects of perioperative Levosimendan in cardiac surgery. This might be due to Levosimendan’s pharmacokinetics reaching a steady-state concentration only 4–8 h after administration. Thus, this study now analysed the influence of timing of Levosimendan administration on perioperative outcome in cardiac surgery patients preoperatively presenting with severely reduced ventricular function and therefore considered at high-risk for intra- or postoperative low cardiac output syndrome. We hypothesized that prolonged preoperative Levosimendan administration (“preconditioning”) would reduce mortality.

Methods

All adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery between 2006 and 2018 perioperatively receiving Levosimendan were included in this retrospective, observational cohort study (n = 498). Patients were stratified into 3 groups: Levosimendan started on the day prior to surgery (“preop”), Levosimendan started on the day of surgery (“intraop”) or post ICU admission (“postop”). After propensity score matching (PSM) was performed, outcomes defined according to proposed standard definitions for perioperative outcome research were compared between groups.

Results

After PSM, there were no significant differences in patients’ characteristics, comorbidities and type/priority of surgery between groups. Compared to intraop or postop Levosimendan treatment, preop treated patients had significantly lower in-hospital-mortality (preop vs. intraop. vs. postop = 16,7% vs. 33,3% vs. 42,3%), duration of mechanical ventilation and rate of continuous renal replacement therapy.

Conclusions

Prolonged preoperative treatment with Levosimendan of cardiac surgery patients preoperatively presenting with severely reduced left ventricular function might be beneficial in terms of postoperative outcome. Our results are in line with recent experts’ recommendations concerning the prolonged perioperative use of Levosimendan. We strongly recommend that future randomized trials include this “preconditioning” treatment as an experimental arm.
Anabolic androgenic steroids and cardiomyopathy: an update
Authors: Fadah Kahtan , Gopi Gokul , Lingireddy Ajay , Blumer Vanessa , Dewald Tracy , Mentz Robert J.
Published: July 2023

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) include endogenously produced androgens like testosterone and their synthetic derivatives. Their influence on multiple metabolic pathways across organ systems results in an extensive side effect profile. From creating an atherogenic and prothrombotic milieu to direct myocardial injury, the effects of AAS on the heart may culminate with patients requiring thorough cardiac evaluation and multi-disciplinary medical management related to cardiomyopathy and heart failure (HF). Supraphysiological doses of AAS have been shown to induce cardiomyopathy via biventricular dysfunction. Advancement in imaging including cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and additional diagnostic testing have facilitated the identification of AAS-induced left ventricular dysfunction, but data regarding the impact on right ventricular function remains limited. Emerging studies showed conflicting data regarding the reversibility of AAS-induced cardiomyopathy. There is an unmet need for a systematic long-term outcomes study to empirically evaluate the clinical course of cardiomyopathy and to assess potential targeted therapy as appropriate. In this review, we provide an overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology and management considerations related to AAS and cardiomyopathy.
The underlying regulatory mechanisms of colorectal carcinoma by combining Vitexin and Aspirin: based on systems biology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and in vitro study
Authors: Chen Dengsheng , Chen Ying , Huang Fang , Zhang Xiaoling , Zhou Yulv , Xu Luning
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevalent digestive system malignancy. Aspirin is currently one of the most promising chemopreventive agents for CRC, and the combination of aspirin and natural compounds helps to enhance the anticancer activity of aspirin. Natural flavonoids like vitexin have an anticancer activity focusing on colorectal carcinoma.

Methods

This study investigated the potential mechanism of action of the novel combination of vitexin and aspirin against colorectal cancer through network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and in vitro experiments.

Results

The results of network pharmacology suggested that vitexin and aspirin regulate multiple signaling pathways through various target proteins such as NFKB1, PTGS2 (COX-2), MAPK1, MAPK3, and TP53. Cellular experiments revealed that the combined effect of vitexin and aspirin significantly inhibited HT-29 cell growth. Vitexin dose-dependently inhibited COX-2 expression in cells and enhanced the down-regulation of COX-2 and NF-κB expression in colorectal cancer cells by aspirin.

Discussion

This study provides a pharmacodynamic material and theoretical basis for applying agents against colorectal cancer to delay the development of drug resistance and improve the prognosis of cancer patients.
The mechanisms crosstalk and therapeutic opportunities between ferroptosis and ovary diseases
Authors: Yao Ying , Wang Bin , Jiang Yanbiao , Guo Hong , Li Yulan
Published: July 2023

Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death, was first defined in 2012. Ferroptosis mainly involves iron-driven lipid peroxidation damage of cells. This process is regulated by iron homeostasis, redox balance, lipid metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and various disease signaling pathways. Iron is one of the key mineral elements that regulate the physiological function of women and the development of ovarian tumors. Occurrence of Ferroptosis has some hidden dangers and advantages in ovary diseases. Some scholars have shown that ferroptosis of ovarian granulosa cells (GC) promotes the development of ovarian dysfunction and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Interestingly, drug-resistant ovarian cancer cells are very sensitive to ferroptosis, suggesting that pharmacological positive and negative regulation of ferroptosis has great potential in the treatment of benign ovarian diseases and ovarian cancer. This article aimed to assess how ferroptosis occurs and the factors controlling ferroptosis. Moreover, we summarize how ferroptosis can be used to predict, diagnose and target treatment ovary disease. Meanwhile, we also evaluated the different phenomena of Ferroptosis in ovarian diseases. It aims to provide new directions for the research and prevention of female reproductive diseases.
Human UC-MSC-derived exosomes facilitate ovarian renovation in rats with chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Pu Xiaodi , Zhang Leisheng , Zhang Peiyu , Xu Yaqiong , Wang Jun , Zhao Xiaomei , Dai Zhihua , Zhou Hua , Zhao Shuyun , Fan Anran
Published: July 2023

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) induced by chemotherapy is an intractable disorder with a considerable incidence that commonly results in insufficient fertility and concomitant complications in female patients. Due to limitations in the current progress in POI diagnosis and treatment, there is an urgent need to develop novel remedies to improve ovarian function and protect fertility. The ameliorative effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) and exosomes derived from them in POI treatment could be a new hope for patients. Herein, we identified exosomes from hUCMSCs (hUCMSC-Exos). Then, systematic infusion of hUCMSC-Exos was accomplished via tail intravenous injection to investigate the feasibility of the treatment of rats with chemotherapy-induced POI by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (CTX) and busulfan (BUS). Ovarian functions in the indicated group were evaluated, including oestrous cycle, serum sex hormone levels, follicle counts, ovarian pathological changes, proliferation and apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs), and reproductive ability testing. Furthermore, the potential influence of hUCMSC-Exos on ovarian tissues was illuminated by conducting RNA-seq and multifaceted bioinformatics analyses. POI rats with hUCMSC-Exos transplantation exhibited a decrease in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and apoptosis of GCs but an increase in oestradiol (E2), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and the number of ovarian follicles and foetuses in the uterus. And the immunomodulation- and cellular vitality-associated gene sets in rats had also undergone moderate changes. Our data indicated the feasibility of hUCMSC-Exos in improving ovarian function and protecting fertility in chemotherapy-induced POI rats. HUCMSC-Exos can improve the local microenvironment of ovarian tissue in POI rats by participating in immune regulation, cellular viability, inflammation regulation, fibrosis and metabolism, and other related signal pathways.
What are NLRP3-ASC specks? an experimental progress of 22 years of inflammasome research
Authors: Nagar Abhinit , Bharadwaj Ravi , Shaikh Mohammad Omar Faruk , Roy Abhishek
Published: July 2023

Speck assembly is the hallmark of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. The 1µm structure comprising of NLRP3 and ASC is the first observable phenotype of NLRP3 activation. While the common consensus is that the specks are the site of inflammasome activity, no direct experimental evidence exists to support this notion. In these 22 years, since the inflammasome discovery, several research studies have been published which directly or indirectly support or refute the idea of speck being the inflammasome. This review compiles the data from two decades of research to answer a long-standing question: “What are NLRP3-ASC specks?”
Unveiling the veil of lactate in tumor-associated macrophages: a successful strategy for immunometabolic therapy
Authors: Tao Hongxia , Zhong Xuansheng , Zeng Anqi , Song Linjiang
Published: July 2023

Lactate, traditionally regarded as a metabolic waste product at the terminal of the glycolysis process, has recently been found to have multifaceted functional roles in metabolism and beyond. A metabolic reprogramming phenomenon commonly seen in tumor cells, known as the “Warburg effect,” sees high levels of aerobic glycolysis result in an excessive production of lactate. This lactate serves as a substrate that sustains not only the survival of cancer cells but also immune cells. However, it also inhibits the function of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), a group of innate immune cells ubiquitously present in solid tumors, thereby facilitating the immune evasion of malignant tumor cells. Characterized by their high plasticity, TAMs are generally divided into the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype and the pro-tumour M2 phenotype. Through a process of ‘education’ by lactate, TAMs tend to adopt an immunosuppressive phenotype and collaborate with tumor cells to promote angiogenesis. Additionally, there is growing evidence linking metabolic reprogramming with epigenetic modifications, suggesting the participation of histone modification in diverse cellular events within the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, we delve into recent discoveries concerning lactate metabolism in tumors, with a particular focus on the impact of lactate on the function of TAMs. We aim to consolidate the molecular mechanisms underlying lactate-induced TAM polarization and angiogenesis and explore the lactate-mediated crosstalk between TAMs and tumor cells. Finally, we also touch upon the latest progress in immunometabolic therapies and drug delivery strategies targeting glycolysis and lactate production, offering new perspectives for future therapeutic approaches.
Rhizosphere-dwelling halophilic archaea: a potential candidate for alleviating salinity-associated stress in agriculture
Authors: Naitam Mayur G. , Ramakrishnan B. , Grover Monendra , Kaushik Rajeev
Published: July 2023

Salinity is a serious environmental factor that impedes crop growth and drastically reduces yield. This study aimed to investigate the potential of halophilic archaea isolated from the Rann of Kutch to alleviate the negative impact of salinity on crop growth and yield. The halophilic archaea, which demonstrated high tolerance to salinity levels up to 4.5 M, were evaluated for their ability to promote plant growth in both salt-tolerant and salt-susceptible wheat cultivars. Our assessment focused on their capacity to solubilize essential nutrients, including phosphorus (14-61 mg L−1), potassium (37-78 mg L−1), and zinc (8-17 mg L−1), as well as their production of the phytohormone IAA (17.30 to 49.3 μg ml−1). To conduct the experiments, five wheat cultivars (two salt-tolerant and three salt-susceptible) were grown in triplicates using soft MS agar tubes (50 ml) and pots containing 10 kg of soil with an electrical conductivity (EC) of 8 dSm−1. Data were collected at specific time points: 21 days after sowing (DAS) for the MS agar experiment, 45 DAS for the pot experiment, and at the time of harvest. In the presence of haloarchaea, the inoculated treatments exhibited significant increases in total protein (46%), sugar (27%), and chlorophyll (31%) levels compared to the un-inoculated control. Furthermore, the inoculation led to an elevated accumulation of osmolyte proline (31.51%) and total carbohydrates (27.85%) while substantially reducing the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, catalase, and peroxidase by 57–76%, respectively. Notably, the inoculated treatments also showed improved plant vegetative growth parameters compared to the un-inoculated treatments. Interestingly, the positive effects of the halophilic archaea were more pronounced in the susceptible wheat cultivars than in the tolerant cultivars. These findings highlight the growth-promoting abilities of the halophilic archaeon Halolamina pelagica CDK2 and its potential to mitigate the detrimental effects of salinity. Consequently, further evaluation of this halophilic archaeon under field conditions is warranted to explore its potential use in the development of microbial inoculants.
Early development of olfactory circuit function
Authors: Maier Joost X. , Zhang Zihao
Published: July 2023

During early development, brains undergo profound changes in structure at the molecular, synaptic, cellular and circuit level. At the same time, brains need to perform adaptive function. How do structurally immature brains process information? How do brains perform stable and reliable function despite massive changes in structure? The rodent olfactory system presents an ideal model for approaching these poorly understood questions. Rodents are born deaf and blind, and rely completely on their sense of smell to acquire resources essential for survival during the first 2 weeks of life, such as food and warmth. Here, we review decades of work mapping structural changes in olfactory circuits during early development, as well as more recent studies performing in vivo electrophysiological recordings to characterize functional activity patterns generated by these circuits. The findings demonstrate that neonatal olfactory processing relies on an interacting network of brain areas including the olfactory bulb and piriform cortex. Circuits in these brain regions exhibit varying degrees of structural maturity in neonatal animals. However, despite substantial ongoing structural maturation of circuit elements, the neonatal olfactory system produces dynamic network-level activity patterns that are highly stable over protracted periods during development. We discuss how these findings inform future work aimed at elucidating the circuit-level mechanisms underlying information processing in the neonatal olfactory system, how they support unique neonatal behaviors, and how they transition between developmental stages.
Addressing gross motor function by functional repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation targeting to the gluteal muscles in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy: benefits of functional repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation targeting the gluteal muscles
Authors: Grosse Leonie , Späh Malina A. , Börner Corinna , Schnabel Julian F. , Meuche Anne C. , Parzefall Barbara , Breuer Ute , Warken Birgit , Sitzberger Alexandra , Hösl Matthias , Heinen Florian , Berweck Steffen , Schröder Sebastian A. , Bonfert Michaela V.
Published: July 2023

Background

Impaired selective motor control, weakness and spasticity represent the key characteristics of motor disability in the context of bilateral spastic cerebral palsy. Independent walking ability is an important goal and training of the gluteal muscles can improve endurance and gait stability. Combining conventional physical excercises with a neuromodulatory, non-invasive technique like repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation probably enhances effects of the treatment. This prospective study aimed to assess the clinical effects of repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation in combination with a personalized functional physical training offered to children and adolescents with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy.

Methods

Eight participants Gross Motor Function Classification System level II and III (10.4 ± 2y5m; 50% Gross Motor Function Classification System level II) received a personalized intervention applying functional repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation (12 sessions within 3 weeks; 12,600 total stimuli during each session). At baseline and follow up the following assessments were performed: 10-m-walking-test, 6-min-walking-test, GMFM-66. Six weeks after the end of treatment the patient-reported outcome measure Gait Outcome Assessment List was completed.

Results

GMFM-66 total score improved by 1.4% (p = 0.002), as did scoring in domain D for standing (1.9%,p = 0.109) and domain E for walking, jumping and running (2.6%,p = 0.021). Gait speed or distance walked during 6 min did not improve from baseline to follow up. Patient-reported outcome showed improvement in 4 patients in altogether 14 ratings. Caregiver-reported outcome reported benefits in 3 participants in altogether 10 ratings.

Conclusion

Repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation promises to be a meaningful, non-invasive treatment approach for children and adolescents with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy that could be offered in a resource-efficient manner to a broad number of patients. To further investigate the promising effects of repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation and its mechanisms of action, larger-scaled, controlled trials are needed as well as comprehensive neurophysiological investigations.
Motor function improvement and acceptability of non-invasive brain stimulation in patients with Parkinson's disease: a Bayesian network analysis
Authors: Qiu Youjia , Yin Ziqian , Wang Menghan , Duan Aojie , Xie Minjia , Wu Jiang , Wang Zhong , Chen Gang
Published: July 2023

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder defined by progressive motor and non-motor symptoms. Currently, the pro-cognitive effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) are well-supported in previous literatures. However, controversy surrounding the optimal therapeutic target for motor symptom improvement remains.

Objective

This network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted to comprehensively evaluate the optimal strategy to use rTMS and tDCS to improve motor symptoms in PD.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane electronic databases for eligible randomized controlled studies (RCTs). The primary outcome was the changes of Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) part III score, the secondary outcomes were Time Up and Go Test (TUGT) time, and Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (FOGQ) score. The safety outcome was indicated by device-related adverse events (AEs).

Result

We enrolled 28 studies that investigated various strategies, including high-frequency rTMS (HFrTMS), low-frequency rTMS (LFrTMS), anodal tDCS (AtDCS), AtDCS_ cathode tDCS (CtDCS), HFrTMS_LFrTMS, and Sham control groups. Both HFrTMS (short-term: mean difference (MD) −5.21, 95% credible interval (CrI) −9.26 to −1.23, long-term: MD −4.74, 95% CrI −6.45 to −3.05), and LFrTMS (long-term: MD −4.83, 95% CrI −6.42 to −3.26) were effective in improving UPDRS-III score compared with Sham stimulation. For TUGT time, HFrTMS (short-term: MD −2.04, 95% CrI −3.26 to −0.8, long-term: MD −2.66, 95% CrI −3.55 to −1.77), and AtDCS (short-term: MD −0.8, 95% CrI −1.26 to −0.34, long-term: MD −0.69, 95% CrI −1.31 to −0.08) produced a significant difference compared to Sham stimulation. However, no statistical difference was found in FOGQ score among the various groups. According to the surface under curve ranking area, HFrTMS ranked first in short-term UPDRS-III score (0.77), short-term (0.82), and long-term (0.84) TUGT time, and short-term FOGQ score (0.73). With respect to the safety outcomes, all strategies indicated few and self-limiting AEs.

Conclusion

HFrTMS may be the optimal non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) intervention to improve motor function in patients with PD while NIBS has generally been well tolerated. However, further studies focusing on the clinical outcomes resulting from the different combined schedules of tDCS and rTMS are required.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2023-4-0087/, identifier: 202340087.
Burden and trends of stroke attributable to dietary risk factors from 1990 to 2019 in the Belt and Road Initiative countries: an analysis from the global burden of disease study 2019
Authors: Zhang Yue , Luo Zheng , Yi Juan , Zhu Junjie , Qiu Yun , Xu Xiaoyun , Xie Wanying , Wu Jinyi , Lv Huihui , Mou Changhua , Zhang Wei , Li Xiaopan
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the burden and trends of stroke attributed to dietary risk factors in the Belt and Road (“B&R”) countries from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

The 2019 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study was used to gather information on the burden of stroke attributable to dietary risk factors. Numbers and age-standardized rates (ASRs) of deaths, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were determined in 1990 and 2019 among the “B&R” countries. The average annual percent change (AAPC) was used to analyze the temporal trends of diet-induced stroke DALYs from 1990 to 2019 and in the final decade (2010–2019) by Joinpoint regression analysis.

Results

In 2019, the absolute number of stroke deaths and DALYs attributable to dietary risk factors were 671,872 cases (95% UI 436,354–937,093) and 1.67 million cases (95% UI 1.15–2.24) in China. We found geographical differences in mortality and DALYs of diet-attributable stroke among member countries, with Bulgaria, Hungary and Serbia being the three highest countries in 1990, Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Montenegro in Central Asia in 2019. The ASRs of diet-induced stroke mortality and DALYs were generally declining in most member states from 1990 to 2019, however, the corresponding metrics in Mongolia remained high. The fastest decline in ASR of mortality and DALYs for diet-induced stroke was seen in Estonia, Eastern Europe, with AAPC values of −7.09% (95%CI: −7.72, −6.46%) and − 6.62% (95%CI: −7.20, −6.03%), respectively. We noted a substantial downward trend in ASR of mortality and DALYs from diet-induced stroke changes in the final decade (2010–2019) for most member states. The ASR of DALYs for diet-induced stroke decreased greater in females than in males. For those aged 50–74, the DALYs for stroke due to dietary risk factors in all other member countries of the “B&R” showed a decreasing trend, except for the Philippines, which rose (AAPC = 2.13, 95%CI: 1.40–2.87%) and Turkmenistan, which remained stable (AAPC = 0.05, 95%CI: −0.43–0.33%).

Conclusion

The burden of diet-induced stroke varies substantially across “B&R” countries and threaten public health, relevant evidence-based policies and interventions should be adopted to address the future burden of stroke in “B&R” countries through extensive collaboration.
Therapeutic hyperthermia for the treatment of infection—a narrative review
Authors: Markota Andrej , Kalamar Žiga , Fluher Jure , Pirkmajer Sergej
Published: July 2023

Modulating body temperature, mostly through the use of antipyretics, is a commonly employed therapeutic intervention in medical practice. However, emerging evidence suggests that hyperthermia could serve as an adjuvant therapy for patients with infection. We performed a narrative review to explore the application of therapeutic hyperthermia in the treatment of infection. A number of studies have been performed in the pre-antibiotic era, enrolling patients with neurosyphilis and gonococcal infections, with reported cure rates at around 60%–80%. We have outlined the potential molecular and immunological mechanisms explaining the possible beneficial effects of therapeutic hyperthermia. For some pathogens increased temperature exerts a direct negative effect on virulence; however, it is presumed that temperature driven activation of the immune system is probably the most important factor affecting microbial viability. Lastly, we performed a review of modern-era studies where modulation of body temperature has been used as a treatment strategy. In trials of therapeutic hypothermia in patients with infection worse outcomes have been observed in the hypothermia group. Use of antipyretics has not been associated with any improvement in clinical outcomes. In modern-era therapeutic hyperthermia achieved by physical warming has been studied in one pilot trial, and better survival was observed in the hyperthermia group. To conclude, currently there is not enough data to support the use of therapeutic hyperthermia outside clinical trials; however, available studies are in favor of at least a temperature tolerance strategy for non-neurocritical patients.
Transcriptomic analysis of humic acid in relieving the inhibitory effect of high nitrogen on soybean nodulation
Authors: Zhang Wenhua , Li Jia , Li Hongya , Zhang Dongdong , Zhu Baocheng , Yuan Hongli , Gao Tongguo
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Nitrogen fertilizer intake promotes soybean growth before the formation of nodules, but excess nitrogen has an inhibitory effect on soybean nodulation. It is important to balance nitrogen levels to meet both growth and nodulation needs.

Methods

the nitrogen level suitable for soybean growth and nodulation was studied, the role of humic acid (HA) in alleviating the inhibition of high nitrogen on soybean nodulation was analyzed, and transcriptomic analysis was performed to understand its mechanism.

Results

The results showed that a lower level of nitrogen with 36.4 mg urea per pot could increase the number of nodules of soybean, and a higher level of nitrogen with 145.9 mg urea per pot (U4 group) had the best growth indicators but inhibited nodulation significantly. HA relieved the inhibitory effect at high nitrogen level, and the number of nodules increased by 122.1% when 1.29 g HA was added (H2 group) compared with the U4 group. The transcriptome analysis was subsequently performed on the H2 and U4 groups, showing that there were 2995 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) on the 25th day, accounting for 6.678% of the total annotated genes (44,848) under the test conditions. These DEGs were enriched in mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway-plant, flavonoid biosynthesis, and plant hormone signal transduction based on the –log10 (Padjusted) value in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway (KEGG).

Discussion

HA balanced the nitrogen level through the above pathways in soybean planting to control the number of nodules.
Climate anxiety, coping strategies and planning for the future in environmental degree students in the UK
Authors: Daeninck Cami , Kioupi Vasiliki , Vercammen Ans
Published: July 2023

Introduction

There is increasing recognition of the mental health burden of climate change and the effects on general well-being, even in those who have not (yet) experienced direct impacts. Climate anxiety, which is prominent among young people in particular, describes a state of heightened distress about the (future) effects of climate change. Despite evidence of a link between engagement in climate change issues and heightened climate anxiety, there is a dearth of knowledge on how this affects emerging professionals preparing for careers in the environmental sector. Furthermore, there is a paucity of literature regarding the extent to which young adults are coping with their thoughts and feelings about climate change, and the extent to which they consider climate change in making future plans.

Methods

The aim of this study was to understand the occurrence and personal management of climate anxiety in UK university students through an online questionnaire. This study was the first to investigate the association between climate anxiety, coping strategies and future planning in university students.

Results and discussion:

Environmental degree students (n = 249) reported greater levels of climate anxiety, more frequent employment of all three examined coping strategies and in particular considered climate change as a factor in their career plans, as compared to their non-environmental degree counterparts (n = 224). Problem-focused coping was the most commonly endorsed strategy, although the prior literature on coping suggests that this may not be sustainable for individually intractable problems. Highly climate-anxious students were more likely to consider climate change in all five decision-making domains, including family planning, long-term habitation, career, financial and travel decisions. This study has identified a need to communicate effective climate anxiety coping strategies to environmental practitioners, university students and educators. Additional research is required to validate the study findings and investigate what motivates students to incorporate climate change into future plans.
Utility-value change and the role of emotional cost in video-based learning: a matter of student teachers’ interpretation of experience
Authors: Dehne Mathias , Gröschner Alexander
Published: July 2023

Motivational and emotional characteristics influence teachers’ reflections on video clips from their own teaching. However, utility values and the role of emotional cost have not been considered yet in video-based research in teacher education. In the present study, 102 student teachers were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) with video-based documentation of a lesson and systematic writing assignment or to a control group (CG) with protocol-based documentation of a lesson and writing assignment. Multigroup latent change score analysis indicated that IG participants, on average, showed a 0.52 SDs higher increase in utility values than the CG three months after the teaching practicum. Emotional cost was negatively related to baseline utility-value scores but predicted latent change scores positively after the writing assignment. The study adds to the current repertoire of video-based learning opportunities by providing a systematic writing assignment targeting student teachers’ interpretation of experiences to leverage motivation.
Decision making and executive functions in problematic pornography use
Authors: Müller Silke M. , Antons Stephanie
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Previous research on cognitive functions in Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) and problematic pornography use (PPU) reported inconsistent findings and mostly included sexual pictures in the used tasks. The role of general executive functions and cognitive competences (without the presence of appetitive stimuli) in the context of PPU is largely unexplored.

Methods

This study investigated differences between individuals with high versus low problem severity of PPU regarding decision making and executive functions. The sample of the laboratory study consisted of N = 102 male adults. Besides measures of trait impulsivity, we used standard neuropsychological tests (Trail Making Test and three-back working memory task) and an intertemporal risky choice paradigm, the Cards & Lottery Task (CLT).

Results

The results show heightened impulsivity (urgency and deficits in perseverance) in individuals with high PPU, but no differences regarding performance in the CLT and executive function tasks.

Discussion

The findings indicate that PPU might be associated with impulsive behavior when experiencing strong emotions (urgency) and deficient cognitive performance especially in the presence of sexual stimuli but not in general.
Public health palliative care interventions that enable communities to support people who are dying and their carers: a scoping review of studies that assess person-centered outcomes
Authors: Peeler Anna , Doran Alexandra , Winter-Dean Lee , Ijaz Mueed , Brittain Molly , Hansford Lorraine , Wyatt Katrina , Sallnow Libby , Harding Richard
Published: July 2023

Background

Public health palliative care views communities as an integral part of care delivery at the end of life. This community-provider partnership approach has the potential to improve end-of-life care for people who are dying and their carers.

Objective

To identify and appraise the current literature related to public health interventions that enable communities to support people who are dying and their carers.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted, applying Arksey and O'Malley's methods. Data was extracted and synthesized using narrative techniques, and results are reported using PRISMA guidelines.

Results

The search yielded 2,902 results. Eighteen met inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Interventions were categorized according to their target population: people with life-limiting illness (ex. facilitated social interaction, helplines and guided discussions about death and dying); carers (ex. social support mapping, psychoeducation, and community resource identification and facilitation); or dyads (ex. reminiscence activities, practical and emotional support from volunteers, online modules to bolster coping mechanisms). Public health palliative care approaches were delivered by key community stakeholders such as community health workers, volunteers, peer mentors, and pre-established support groups. Despite reported challenges in identifying appropriate tools to measure effectiveness, studies report improvement in quality of life, loneliness, social support, stress and self-efficacy.

Conclusion

We found that community-engaged palliative care interventions can lead to appreciable changes in various outcomes, though it was difficult to determine in which contexts this approach works best because of the dearth of contextual information reported. Based on the varied design and implementation strategies, it is clear that no one method for enhancing end of life care will benefit all communities and it is crucial to engage community members at all stages of the design and implementation process. Future research should be grounded in appropriate theory, describe contextual differences in these communities, and should specifically examine how demographics, resource availability, and social capital might impact the design, implementation, and results of public health palliative care interventions.