bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The activities of daily living partially mediate the relationship between rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and depressive symptoms in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Wang QiuShuang , Zheng ShuangShuang , Jing Bian , Sun Yi , Qian Wei , Zhao ZiXuan , Zhao HuaShuo
Published: July 2024

Objective

A longitudinal study was conducted to investigate whether rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder affect depression in patients with Parkinson's disease through activities of daily living.

Methods

A total of 387 Parkinson's disease patients' six-year follow-up data (one follow-up per year) were obtained from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative. To allow causal effects to manifest, this study increased the lag period and divided the data from the six follow-ups into two groups: wave 1 (wave refers to time points), wave 3, and wave 5 as one group, and wave 2, wave 4, and wave6 as the other group. The time interval between two time points in each group was two years. To comprehensively and deeply analyze the dynamic relationships between variables, accurately infer causal relationships, control for individual differences, and detect the stability of these relationships, this study constructed the fixed effects cross-lagged panel model (CLPM), the random effects CLPM (RE-CLPM) model, and the Equating CLPM and Equating RE-CLPM models with applied restriction conditions. Additionally, a reverse path was added to verify the reverse prediction effect. The most suitable data analysis model was selected to explore the relationships between the study variables. Furthermore, the longitudinal mediating effect of daily living activities between rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and depression was investigated.

Results

In the models, Equating cross-lagged panel model was the best. The lag effect was positive and significant. In wave 1, 3, 5, activities of daily living mediated 11.82% on the path from rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder to depression; in wave 2, 4, 6, it mediated 13.13%. Therefore, attention should be paid to the treatment of activities of daily living.

Conclusion

Longitudinal changes in activities of daily living have indirect effects on the relationship between rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and depression, which highlights the importance of changes in activities of daily living ability in Parkinson's disease patients with rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder.
Analysis of visual evoked potentials in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1: new concepts
Authors: Jancic Jasna , Zarkovic Nikola , Nikolic Blazo , Ivancevic Nikola , Rovcanin Branislav , Nesic Dejan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF type 1) is an autosomal dominant disease with typical clinical manifestations, such as skin lesions, Lisch nodules, optic pathway gliomas, and neurofibromas, caused by the mutation of the NF1 gene. Visual evoked potentials (VEP) present a measure of the electrophysiological response of visual cortex to a visual stimulus. The role of VEP in the pathophysiology of NF type 1 is very complex and requires additional research.

The Aim

We examined the differences between NF type 1 patients with normal and altered VEP and analyzed the correlation between the prolongation of P100 latency and disease severity.

Materials and methods

Two groups were formed: a control group and a study group with NF type 1 patients. Based on the control group analysis, a threshold value for a normal VEP finding of 116 ms was obtained, and it was used to divide the study group into subgroups with normal and altered VEP. We proceeded with examining the differences in clinical manifestations of the disease between the subgroups, after which we checked if there is a correlation between the prolongation of the P100 latency and the severity of the clinical picture according to the Riccardi scale. Statistical analysis was performed using the Pearson chi-square test and the Spearman correlation test in the program SPSS 28.0, with levels of statistical significance p = 0.05 and p = 0.001.

Results

In the group with the abnormal VEP we found a statistically significant more frequent occurrence of optic tract glioma (p = 0.008), tumors (p = 0.032), epilepsy (p = 0.043), and cognitive disorders (p = 0.028), while the other clinical signs had an equal prevalence in both groups. A moderately strong correlation (rs = 0.665) was observed between the prolongation of P100 latency and the severity of the clinical picture.

Conclusion

Our results showed the important role of VEP in the description of clinical phenotypes of NF type 1. The authors of the study propose VEP to be included in the diagnostic algorithms designed for patients with NF type 1.
Quantifying ocular microcirculation in hypertension patients with carotid artery stenosis
Authors: Ma Jinlan , Gelie NanJia , Zhu Mingjuan , Ma Xiaolu , Han Changjing
Published: July 2024

Background

Carotid artery stenosis (CAS) is one of the most common macrovascular complications of hypertension. The ophthalmic artery springs from the internal carotid artery; however, the effect of CAS on ocular microcirculation has not been quantified in hypertension patients. This study aimed to quantify ocular microcirculation metrics in hypertension with CAS (HCAS) patients and to explore the relationship between micro- and macroangiopathy in hypertension.

Methods

All participants (community-based) underwent detailed assessments, including carotid ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and enhanced depth imaging (EDI)-OCT. CAS was diagnosed using carotid ultrasonography. Retinal microcirculation metrics, including vessel density (VD), skeleton density (SD), fractal dimension (FD), and foveal avascular zone (FAZ), were quantified using OCTA and ImageJ software. Choroidal microcirculation metrics, including subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), luminal area (LA), and choroidal vascularity index (CVI), were quantified using EDI-OCT and ImageJ. Retinal vessel caliber metrics, including central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE), central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE), and artery/vein ratio (AVR), were calculated using revised formulas. The above metrics were compared among the HCAS group, hypertension with no CAS (HNCAS) group, and healthy control group. The mutual effects between ocular metrics and CAS were evaluated using regression analyses.

Results

In a comparison of the HCAS vs. HNCAS groups, retinal metrics including VD, SD, FD, and choroidal metrics including CVI and LA were significantly decreased in the HCAS group (all p < 0.05); however, FAZ, SFCT, and retinal vessel caliber metrics including CRAE, CRVE, and AVR were comparable between groups (all p > 0.05). In a comparison of HNCAS and the healthy control group, VD, SD, and CRAE showed that AVR was significantly decreased in the HNCAS group (all p < 0.05); meanwhile, choroidal metrics were comparable between groups (all p > 0.05). Linear regression analyses showed that intima-media thickness (IMT) (p = 0.01) and peak systolic velocity (PSV) (p = 0.002) were negatively related to retinal VD in hypertension patients. Logistic regression analyses disclosed that older age (p < 0.001), smoking history (p = 0.002), lower VD (p = 0.04), SD (p = 0.02), and CVI (p < 0.001) were related to the presence of CAS in hypertension patients.

Conclusion

CAS in hypertension-induced hypoperfusion in retinal and choroidal microcirculation and the decreased retinal VD and choroidal CVI were significantly associated with the presence of CAS in patients with hypertension, suggesting that hypertension macro- and microangiopathy were mutually affected and share the common pathophysiology. Furthermore, OCT could be a useful tool to assess hypertension patient’s CAS risk profiles in a non-invasive way.
Efficacy of 5 and 10 mg donepezil in improving cognitive function in patients with dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sheikh Mehak , Ammar Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare donepezil at 5 mg and 10 mg/day against a placebo to systematically evaluate its effectiveness in improving cognitive function among patients suffering from dementia at any stage.

Method

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, we looked up Medline, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library for articles on the efficacy of donepezil in dementia published in the past 20 years and summarized the placebo and intervention data. Initially, a total of 2,272 articles were extracted using our search query and after the inclusion and exclusion criteria set for extraction of data, 18 studies were included in this review using PRISMA flowchart. The ADAS-cog and MMSE assessment scales were used for measuring the outcomes using IBM SPSS 29.0 for the meta-analysis.

Result

The meta-analysis comprised a total of 18 RCTs (randomized controlled trials) that were randomized to receive either donepezil 5 mg/day (n = 1,556), 10 mg/day (n = 2050) or placebo (n = 2,342). Meta-analysis concerning efficacy showed that donepezil at 10 mg/day significantly improved the MMSE score (g: 2.27, 95%CI: 1.25–3.29) but could not substantially reduce the ADAS-cog. At 5 mg/day donepezil, an overall slight improvement in MMSE score (Hedges’ g: 2.09, 95%CI: 0.88–3.30) was observed.

Conclusion

Both donepezil 5 mg/day and 10 mg/day doses demonstrated improved cognitive functions for patients with dementia, however results indicated that the 10 mg/day dose was more efficacious.
Unraveling stroke gait deviations with movement analytics, more than meets the eye: a case control study
Authors: Pan Jing Wen , Sidarta Ananda , Wu Tsung-Lin , Kwong Wai Hang Patrick , Ong Poo Lee , Tay Matthew Rong Jie , Phua Min Wee , Chong Wei Binh , Ang Wei Tech , Chua Karen Sui Geok
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to identify and quantify the kinematic and kinetic gait deviations in post-stroke hemiplegic patients with matched healthy controls using Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM).

Methods

Fifteen chronic stroke patients [4 females, 11 males; age 53.7 (standard deviation 12.2) years; body mass 65.4 (10.4) kg; standing height 168.5 (9.6) cm] and 15 matched healthy controls [4 females, 11 males; age 52.9 (11.7) years; body weight 66.5 (10.7) years; standing height 168.3 (8.8) cm] were recruited. In a 10-m walking task, joint angles, ground reaction forces (GRF), and joint moments were collected, analyzed, and compared using SPM for an entire gait cycle.

Results

Generally, when comparing the stroke patients’ affected (hemiplegic) and less-affected (contralateral) limbs with the control group, SPM identified significant differences in the late stance phase and early swing phase in the joint angles and moments in bilateral limbs (all p < 0.005). In addition, the vertical and anteroposterior components of GRF were significantly different in various periods of the stance phase (all p < 0.005), while the mediolateral component showed no differences between the two groups.

Conclusion

SPM was able to detect abnormal gait patterns in both the affected and less-affected limbs of stroke patients with significant differences when compared with matched controls. The findings draw attention to significant quantifiable gait deviations in the less-affected post-stroke limb with the potential impact to inform gait retraining strategies for clinicians and physiotherapists.
No evidence of genetic causation between iron and infertility: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Guo Liangliang , Yin Shengnan , Wei Hongkui , Peng Jian
Published: July 2024

Background

Observational studies have explored the impact of iron homeostasis on infertility; however, establishing definitive causal relationships remains challenging. This study utilized a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach to investigate the potential causal relationship between iron status and infertility.

Materials and methods

Four indicators of iron status-serum iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation, and total iron binding capacity, were considered as exposure factors. Infertility was the outcome variable for both men and women. Robust causality was assessed using the primary inverse-variance-weighted method, complemented by three supplementary Mendelian randomization approaches. Sensitivity analyses were performed to enhance the precision and reliability of the results.

Results

No statistically significant associations were identified between the four indicators of iron status and infertility. These results remained consistent across multiple Mendelian randomization methodologies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no evidence of a genetic causal relationship between iron status and infertility. Nevertheless, this does not preclude the possibility of a connection between iron status and infertility at different mechanistic levels.
The interaction between polyphenol intake and genes (MC4R, Cav-1, and Cry1) related to body homeostasis and cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight and obese women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Roumi Zahra , Mirzababaei Atieh , Abaj Faezeh , Davaneghi Soheila , Aali Yasaman , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: July 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is an important global health challenge, is expanding. One of the main factors in the occurrence of CVD is a high genetic risk. The interaction between genetic risk in CVD and nutrition is debatable. Polyphenols are one of the important dietary components that may have a protective role in people who have a high genetic risk score (GRS) for cardiometabolic risk factors. This study, conducted in overweight and obese women, examines the interaction between polyphenol intake and specific genes (MC4r, Cav-1, and Cry1) related to maintaining body balance and their interaction with cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 391 women who were overweight or obese, aged 18 to 48 years, with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 40 kg/m2. Body composition was measured using the InBody 770 scanner. Total dietary polyphenol intake (TDPI) was assessed with a validated 147-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and polyphenol intakes were determined using the Phenol-Explorer database. Serum samples underwent biochemical tests. The Genetic Risk Score (GRS) was calculated based on the risk alleles of three genes: MC4r, Cav-1, and Cry1.

Results

The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age and BMI of women were 36.67 (9.1) years and 30.98 (3.9) kg/m2, respectively. The high GRS and high TDPI group had a significant negative interaction with fasting blood glucose (FBS) (p = 0.01). Individuals who had a high GRS and a high phenolic acid intake were found to have a significant negative interaction with Triglyceride (p = 0.04). Similarly, individuals with high GRS and a high intake of flavonoids had a significant negative interaction with TG (p < 0.01) and a significant positive interaction with High-density lipoprotein (HDL) (p = 0.01) in the adjusted model.

Conclusion

According to our findings, those with a high GRS may have a protective effect on cardiometabolic risk factors by consuming high amounts of polyphenols. Further studies will be necessary in the future to validate this association.
Global, regional, and national analyses of the burden of colorectal cancer attributable to diet low in milk from 1990 to 2019: longitudinal observational study
Authors: Zhang Xingxing , Zhang Xinru , Li Ruihua , Lin Meiyan , Ou Tongyin , Zhou Hu , Chen Zhiming , Zhen Li
Published: July 2024

Background

Globally, diet low in milk is the third greatest risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there has been a lack of detailed worldwide analysis of the burden and trends of CRC attributable to diet low in milk.

Objective

We aim to assess the spatiotemporal trends of CRC-related mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) attributable to diet low in milk at the global, regional, and national levels from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Data of mortality, DALYs, age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age-standardized DALY rate (ASDR) of CRC attributable to diet low in milk were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 study. The burden of CRC attributable to diet low in milk was estimated using the ASMR and ASDR, while accounting for sex, age, country, and socio-demographic index (SDI). From 1990 to 2019, the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was calculated to clarify the temporal trends in the ASMR and ASDR attributable to diet low in milk.

Results

In 2019, there were 166,456 (95% UI = 107,221–226,027) deaths and 3,799,297 (95% UI = 2,457,768–5,124,453) DALYs attributable to diet low in milk, accounting for 15.3 and 15.6% of CRC-related deaths and DALYs in 2019. CRC-related deaths and DALYs attributed to diet low in milk increased by 130.5 and 115.4%, from 1990 to 2019. The burden of CRC attributable to diet low in milk varied notably among regions and nations. High-middle SDI regions had the highest ASDR and ASMR of CRC linked to diet low in milk, while there was a slight downward trend high SDI regions. Among geographical regions, East Asia had the highest number of CRC-related deaths and DALYs attributable to diet low in milk. Notably, the burden of CRC was highest in males and the elderly. With coefficients of −0.36 and −0.36, the EAPC in ASMR and ASDR was significantly inversely correlated with the Human Development Index in 2019.

Conclusion

Globally, the number of CRC deaths attributable to diet low in milk has continued to increase over the last 30 years. Therefore, government and authorities should conduct education campaigns to encourage individuals to increase daily milk intake.
Appendectomy and appendicitis do not increase colorectal cancer risk: evidence from Mendelian randomization
Authors: Wei Wei , Wang Juanhong , Yu Daihua , Liu Wei , Zong Lei
Published: July 2024

Background

Acute appendicitis (AA) is one of the most prevalent acute abdominal diseases and appendectomy is the definitive treatment of appendicitis. However, whether appendicitis and appendectomy cause colorectal cancer (CRC) is controversial. The results of observational studies are contradictory, but randomized controlled trials (RCT) cannot be conducted.

Methods

Data of appendectomy, AA, and CRC were obtained from the IEU Open GWAS project. We selected several Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics for CRC: statistics for colon cancer (CC) were obtained from MRC-IEU and Neale lab, respectively; statistics for rectum cancer (RC) were obtained from MRC-IEU and FinnGen, respectively; statistics for CRC were provided by Sakaue S et al. Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to evaluate the causal relationships between exposure and outcomes. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was the most important analysis method. Meta-analysis was used to summarize the results of IVW to increase the reliability and sensitivity analysis was used to evaluate the robustness of the results.

Results

According to the results of IVW, appendectomy did not increase risk of CC: MRC-IEU (OR:1.009, 95%CI:0.984-1.035, P=0.494), Neale lab (OR:1.016, 95%CI:0.993-1.040, P=0.174); Appendectomy also did not increase risk of RC: MRC-IEU(OR:0.994, 95%CI:0.974-1.014, P=0.538), FinnGen(OR:2.791, 95%CI:0.013-580.763, P=0.706); Appendectomy also did not increase risk of CRC: Sakaue S(OR:1.382, 95%CI:0.301-6.352, P=0.678). Appendicitis did not increase risk of CC: MRC-IEU(OR:1.000, 95%CI:0.999-1.001, P=0.641), Neale lab(OR:1.000, 95%CI:1.000-1.001, P=0.319); Appendicitis also did not increase risk of RC: MRC-IEU(OR:1.000, 95%CI:0.999-1.000, P=0.361), FinnGen(OR:0.903, 95%CI:0.737-1.105, P=0.321); Appendicitis also did not increase risk of CRC: Sakaue S (OR:1.018, 95%CI:0.950-1.091, P=0.609). The results of Meta-analysis also showed appendectomy (P=0.459) and appendicitis (P=0.999) did not increase the risk of CRC.

Conclusions

Appendectomy and appendicitis do not increase the risk of colorectal cancer. More clinical trials are needed in the future to verify the causal relationships.
The case of the neonate vs. LMIC medical academia—a jury-style systematic review of 32 years of literature without significant mortality reduction
Authors: Amadi Hippolite O. , Abioye Ifeoluwa O. , Ugbolue Ukadike C. , Ekpenyong Rhoda-Dara , Ekwem Nnamdi F. , Nwaneri Ogechi J. , Dike Chidiebere
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The high neonatal mortality rate in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Nigeria has lasted for more than 30 years to date with associated nursing fatigue. Despite prominent hard work, technological improvements, and many publications released from the country since 1990, the problem has persisted, perhaps due to a lack of intervention scale-up. Could there be neglected discoveries unwittingly abandoned by Nigerian policymakers over the years, perhaps locked up in previous publications? A careful review may reveal these insights to alert policymakers, inspire researchers, and refocus in-country research efforts towards impactful directions for improving neonatal survival rates. The focus was to determine the prevailed effectiveness of LMIC medical academia in creating solutions to end the high neonatal mortality rate.

Methods

An unconventional systematic review protocol structure following the PRISMA 2020 checklist was designed and registered at INPLASY (registration number: INPLASY202380096, doi: 10.37766/inplasy2023.8.0096). A jury of paediatricians was assembled and observed by a team of legal professionals. The jury searched the literature from 1990 to the end of 2022, extracted newborn-related articles about Nigeria, and assessed and debated them against expected criteria for solution creation, translation, scale-up, sustainability, and national coverage. Each juror used preset criteria to produce a verdict on the possibility of a published novel idea being a potential game-changer for improving the survival rate of Nigerian neonates.

Results

A summation of the results showed that 19 out of 4,286 publications were assessed to possess potential strategies or interventions to reduce neonatal mortality. Fourteen were fully developed but not appropriately scaled up across the country, hence denying neonates proper access to these interventions.

Conclusion

Nigeria may already have the required game-changing ideas to strategically scale up across the nation to accelerate neonatal survival. Therefore, LMIC healthcare systems may have to look inward to strengthen what they already possess.

Systematic Review Registration

https://inplasy.com/, identifier (INPLASY202380096).
Influence of fecal fermentation on the anthelmintic activity of proanthocyanidins and ellagitannins against human intestinal nematodes and Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Jato Jonathan , Orman Emmanuel , Boakye Yaw Duah , Belga François Ngnodandi , Ndjonka Dieudonné , Oppong Bekoe Emelia , Liebau Eva , Spiegler Verena , Hensel Andreas , Agyare Christian
Published: July 2024

Some tannin-rich plants such as Combretum mucronatum and Phyllanthus urinaria are widely used in Africa for the control of parasitic nematodes in both humans and livestock. Tannins have been recognized as an alternative source of anthelmintic therapies, and hence, recent studies have focused on both the hydrolyzable and condensed tannins. These groups of compounds, however, have poor oral bioavailability and are metabolized by gut microbiota into lower molecular weight compounds. The role of these metabolites in the anthelmintic activities of tannins has not been explored yet. This study investigated the effects of fecal metabolism on the anthelmintic potential of procyanidin C1 (PC1) and geraniin and the tannin-enriched extracts of C. mucronatum (CML) and P. urinaria (PUH), which contain these compounds, respectively. Metabolites were formed by anaerobic fermentation of the test compounds and extracts in a fresh human fecal suspension for 0 h, 4 h, and 24 h. Lyophilized samples were tested in vitro against hookworm larvae and whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) larvae obtained from naturally infected human populations in Pru West District, Bono East Region, Ghana, and against the wildtype strain of Caenorhabditis elegans (L4). Both extracts and compounds in the undegraded state exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition of the three nematodes. Their activity, however, significantly decreased upon fecal metabolism. Without fermentation, the proanthocyanidin-rich CML extract was lethal against hookworm L3 (LC50 = 343.5 μg/mL, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 267.5–445.4), T. trichiura L1 (LC50 = 230.1 μg/mL, CI = 198.9–271.2), and C. elegans (LC50 = 1468.1 μg/mL, CI = 990.3–1946.5). PUH, from which the ellagitannin geraniin was isolated, exhibited anthelmintic effects in the unfermented form with LC50 of 300.8 μg/mL (CI = 245.1–374.8) against hookworm L3 and LC50 of 331.6 μg/mL (CI = 290.3–382.5) against T. trichiura L1, but it showed no significant activity against C. elegans L4 larvae at the tested concentrations. Similarly, both compounds, procyanidin C1 and geraniin, lost their activity when metabolized in fecal matter. The activity of geraniin at a concentration of 170 μg/mL against C. elegans significantly declined from 30.4% ± 1.8% to 14.5% ± 1.5% when metabolized for 4 h, whereas that of PC1 decreased from 32.4% ± 2.3% to 8.9% ± 0.9% with similar treatment. There was no significant difference between the anthelmintic actions of metabolites from the structurally different tannin groups. The outcome of this study revealed that the intact bulky structure of tannins (hydrolyzable or condensed) may be required for their anthelmintic action. The fermented products from the gut may not directly contribute toward the inhibition of the larvae of soil-transmitted helminths.
Integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics provides insights into the Nicotiana tabacum response to heat stress
Authors: Chen Hao , Qiu Shaoxin , Chen Yuanping , Li Jiqin , Xu Tingyu , Zhong Pingzhan , Shao Xiuhong , Xu Shihuan , Ma Zhuwen , Huang Zhenrui , Pan Xiaoying
Published: July 2024

Heat stress is a prevalent factor that significantly damages crops, especially with the ongoing global warming and increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Tobacco is particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, experiencing reduced yield and quality under high temperatures. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of heat resistance in tobacco remain poorly understood. This study comprehensively analyzed biochemical, transcriptomic, and metabolomic responses to heat stress on the root and shoot of the tobacco cultivar K326 compared to control conditions. Heat stress significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, POD, and SOD) and levels of osmotic mediators (soluble sugars, sucrose, and proline) in the shoot. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis identified 13,176 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the root (6,129 up-regulated and 7,047 down-regulated) and 12,283 DEGs (6,621 up-regulated and 5,662 down-regulated) in the shoot. The root had 24 enriched KEGG pathways, including phenylpropanoid metabolism, while the shoot had 32 significant pathways, such as galactose metabolism and MAPK signaling. The metabolomic data identified 647 metabolites in the root and 932 in the shoot, with carbohydrates and amino acids being the main categories. The root had 116 differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs) (107 up-regulated and 9 down-regulated), and the shoot contained 256 DAMs (251 up-regulated and 5 down-regulated). Joint transcriptome and metabolome analysis showed that galactose metabolism and starch and sucrose metabolism were co-enriched in both tissues. In contrast, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism was enriched in the root, and purine metabolism in the shoot. The purine metabolic pathway in the shoot can modulate the expression of MYB transcription factors by influencing ABA synthesis and signaling, thereby controlling the accumulation of HSPs, raffinose, sucrose, and trehalose to enhance heat tolerance. Furthermore, NtMYB78, an MYB transcription factor, enhances tolerance for heat stress in tobacco. This research offers a foundational framework for investigating and implementing heat-resistant genes and metabolic pathways in the root and shoot of tobacco seedlings.
Examining the clinical validity of the global psychotrauma screen in refugees
Authors: Pinto Janaina V. , Hoeboer Christopher , Hunt Caroline , O’Toole Brian , Olff Miranda
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The Global Psychotrauma Screen (GPS) is a brief transdiagnostic screener that covers a broad range of trauma-related disorders as well as risk factors known to influence the course of symptoms.

Methods

We analyzed data from African war refugees in Australia (n = 70), including the GPS, the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Disorders (SCID-5), the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5), and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS).

Results

Using the Youden’s J Index to examine the clinical validity of the GPS subscales measuring PTSD, dissociation, depression, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), we found that a PTSD subscale score of 3 or higher, and a depression and dissociation subscale score of 1 or higher, was optimally efficient for detecting a probable diagnosis (Youden’s J = 0.76, J = 0.72, and J = 0.90, respectively) with high sensitivity and specificity. We were unable to test the GPS clinical validity for GAD due to the low GAD occurrence. The GPS resilience item was not related to the total score (r = 0.02), indicating low convergent validity for resilience. Risk factors, including current stressors and childhood trauma history, were related to more severe GPS symptom scores, while lack of resilience, social support, and history of mental illness were not.

Conclusion

We conclude that the GPS may be a useful screening tool for PTSD, depression, and the dissociative subtype in refugees.
Uric acid mediates the relationship between mixed heavy metal exposure and renal function in older adult people
Authors: Pan Sai , Niu Yue , Duan Shuwei , Zhao Delong , Wang Qian , Dong Zheyi , Cai Guangyan , Chen Xiangmei
Published: July 2024

Background

Population aging is a pivotal trend observed globally, and the exposure to heavy metals can exacerbate the aging process and lead to kidney damage. However, the impact of combined heavy metal exposure on renal function among older individuals remains elusive. Our study employs machine learning techniques to delve into the effects and underlying mechanisms of mixed exposure to heavy metals on the renal function of the aging population.

Methods

This study extracted comprehensive data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2015 and 2020. A total of 3,175 participants aged 60 years and above, with complete information on six metals – lead, cadmium, manganese, cobalt, mercury, and selenium, along with relevant covariates, were included in the study. To assess the impact of single or mixed metal exposure on the renal function of older adult individuals, various statistical techniques were employed: multiple logistic regression, weighted quantitative sum (WQS) regression, Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), and mediation effects analysis.

Results

Multiple logistic regression revealed that selenium and manganese were protective factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Cobalt was a risk factor for CKD. High concentrations of lead, cadmium, and cobalt were risk factors for urinary albumin creatinine ratio (ACR). WQS analyses revealed that mixed metal exposure was positively correlated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) but negatively correlated with CKD. Selenium and manganese can neutralize the effects of other metals on eGFR. Mixed metal exposure was positively correlated with ACR, with lead and cadmium having a substantial effect. Mediation analysis showed that uric acid (UA) had a mediating effect of 9.7% and −19.7% in the association between mixed metals exposure and proteinuria and CKD, respectively.

Conclusion

The impact of heavy metals on renal function in the older adult differs from that of adolescents and adults. This study suggests that elevated levels of mixed metals exposure are linked to proteinuria and CKD, with UA serving as a mediating factor.
What public health challenges and unmet medical needs would benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration in the EU? A survey and multi-stakeholder debate
Authors: Pistollato Francesca , Burkhart Gregor , Deceuninck Pierre , Bernasconi Camilla , Di Virgilio Sergio , Emili Luca , Fauvel Anne-Charlotte , Ferreira Bastos Luisa , Gastaldello Annalisa , Gerardi Chiara , Habermann Jens K. , Hanes Ioan , Kyriakopoulou Christina , Lanka Uma , Lauriola Paolo , Laverty Hugh , Maisonneuve Benoit G. C. , Mennecozzi Milena , Pappalardo Francesco , Pastorino Roberta , Radvilaite Vilma , Roggen Erwin L. , Constantino Helder
Published: July 2024

In the past decade, significant European calls for research proposals have supported translational collaborative research on non-communicable and infectious diseases within the biomedical life sciences by bringing together interdisciplinary and multinational consortia. This research has advanced our understanding of disease pathophysiology, marking considerable scientific progress. Yet, it is crucial to retrospectively evaluate these efforts’ societal impact. Research proposals should be thoughtfully designed to ensure that the research findings can be effectively translated into actionable policies. In addition, the choice of scientific methods plays a pivotal role in shaping the societal impact of research discoveries. Understanding the factors responsible for current unmet public health issues and medical needs is crucial for crafting innovative strategies for research policy interventions. A multistakeholder survey and a roundtable helped identify potential needs for consideration in the EU research and policy agenda. Based on survey findings, mental health disorders, metabolic syndrome, cancer, antimicrobial resistance, environmental pollution, and cardiovascular diseases were considered the public health challenges deserving prioritisation. In addition, early diagnosis, primary prevention, the impact of environmental pollution on disease onset and personalised medicine approaches were the most selected unmet medical needs. Survey findings enabled the formulation of some research-policies interventions (RPIs), which were further discussed during a multistakeholder online roundtable. The discussion underscored recent EU-level activities aligned with the survey-derived RPIs and facilitated an exchange of perspectives on public health and biomedical research topics ripe for interdisciplinary collaboration and warranting attention within the EU’s research and policy agenda. Actionable recommendations aimed at facilitating the translation of knowledge into transformative, science-based policies are also provided.
A mentally healthy framework to guide employers and policy makers
Authors: Deady Mark , Sanatkar Samineh , Tan Leona , Glozier Nick , Gayed Aimee , Petrie Katherine , Dalgaard Vita Ligaya , Stratton Elizabeth , LaMontagne Anthony D. , Harvey Samuel B.
Published: July 2024

Mental health problems among the working population represent a growing concern with huge impacts on individuals, organizations, compensation authorities, and social welfare systems. The workplace presents both psychosocial risks and unique opportunities for intervention. Although there has been rapid expansion of workplace mental health interventions over recent decades, clear direction around appropriate, evidence-based action remains limited. While numerous workplace mental health models have been proposed to guide intervention, general models often fail to adequately consider both the evidence base and where best-practice principles alone inform action. Further, recommendations need to be updated as new discoveries occur. We seek to update the Framework for Mentally Healthy Workplaces based on new evidence of intervention effectiveness while also incorporating evidence-based principles. The updated model also integrates concepts from existing alternate models to present a comprehensive overview of strategies designed to enhance wellbeing, minimize harm, and facilitate recovery. Examples of available evidence and obstacles to implementation are discussed. The Framework is designed to support employers and managers in determining which strategies to apply and to guide future avenues of research.
The distribution of Apis laboriosa revisited: range extensions, biogeographic affinities, and species distribution modelling
Authors: Otis Gard W. , Huang Man-Juan , Kitnya Nyaton , Sheikh Umer Ayyaz Aslam , Faiz Abu ul Hassan , Phung Chinh H. , Warrit Natapot , Peng Yan-Qiong , Zhou Xin , Oo Hlaing Min , Acharya Namoona , Devkota Kedar
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Apis laboriosa, the Himalayan giant honeybee, inhabits the foothills of Himalaya and neighboring mountainous regions. Here we revise its distribution in light of recent reports and discoveries, review the ecozones it inhabits, and reassess its likely distribution through species distribution modeling.

Methods

We revised the range map for A. laboriosa by mapping locality records from various sources: refereed research publications, museum specimens, records with identifiable images of bees in publicly available databases, personal observations of the authors, and photos/videos and their coordinates submitted to the authors by honey-hunters, beekeepers, and extension workers. We then used that map to determine the ecozones in which the species occurs. The geographical coordinates of the data localities were used to estimate the potential suitable areas for the bee with MaxEnt modeling.

Results

Our research filled in several previously identified gaps in the distribution of A. laboriosa: in western Nepal; mountainous regions of Myanmar, northwestern Thailand, and northern Laos; several river valleys in Xizang and Yunnan, China; and northeastern Pakistan. Over most of its range this bee species primarily occupies subtropical broadleaf forests with strong Himalayan affinities. However, in the western part of its range it extends into zones dominated by conifers. The sites where A. laboriosa has been recorded closely match the predicted range of the species. Two variables, mean temperature of the coldest quarter and temperature seasonality, contributed most (76%) to the species distribution model.

Discussion

Apis laboriosa has a more extensive distribution in the foothills of the Himalaya and neighboring mountainous regions than has been previously recognized. The range now extends from longitude 74.4°–105.9°E, a linear distance of 3300 km, and from latitude 19.2°N–34.8°N. We have documented nesting on tree branches in northern Vietnam. Future research is warranted on its elevational migrations along river valleys, population differentiation, and ecological role as a pollinator in the different ecological zones it inhabits.
Targeting the bone marrow niche, moving towards leukemia eradication
Authors: Semedo Carla , Caroço Raquel , Almeida António , Cardoso Bruno António
Published: July 2024

Hematopoiesis is a complex and tightly regulated process that drives the formation of mature blood cells from a single hematopoietic stem cell. This complex process occurs within the bone marrow, which, once disrupted or deregulated, subverts normal hematopoietic development, allowing leukemic cells to emerge, proliferate, and thrive. Notably, several cellular populations and paracrine factors within the bone marrow fuel leukemia expansion and progression. This review presents an overview of the main microenvironmental components that promote myeloid leukemia progression, discussing the emerging therapeutical strategies that target both leukemic cells and the supportive bone marrow microenvironment – targeting both the seed and the soil.
The short-term effect of nitrogen on freshwater cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins
Authors: Le Kim Thien Nguyen , Maldonado Juan Francisco Guerra , Nguyen Thanh-Luan , Goitom Eyerusalem , Trigui Hana , Ndiaye Ndèye Adiara , Terrat Yves , Shapiro B. Jesse , Husk Barry , Zamyadi Arash , Sauvé Sébastien , Prévost Michèle , Dorner Sarah
Published: July 2024

Toxic cyanobacterial blooms are a worldwide concern. Nutrients are among the numerous factors that trigger cyanobacterial blooms and the production of cyanotoxins. This study aimed to assess the effect of nitrogen on cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins through a short-term mesocosm experiment. To achieve this, mesocosms were installed in situ in two lakes (the Missisquoi Bay of Lake Champlain and Petit-Lac-St-François) and received 700 μg/L of ammonium or 500 μg/L of nitrate. A shift to Microcystis in the mesocosms with nitrogen addition was observed 2 days after the addition in Missisquoi Bay, where nitrogen was more limited than Petit-Lac-St-François based on nutrient ratios. There was a significant increase of extracellular ΣMCs and MC-LR in mesocosms with the addition of ammonium or nitrate after 48 h compared to control mesocosms. Intracellular and extracellular microcystin concentrations were associated with Microcystis. Microcystis presence was associated with ammonium 48 h after N was added at both sites. Therefore, toxin production following sudden nitrogen addition can occur on short time scales relevant to drinking water treatment plant operations. This information will help treatment plant operators better anticipate the arrival of potentially higher concentrations of cyanotoxins.
Plasma proteomic analysis reveals key pathways associated with divergent residual body weight gain phenotype in beef steers
Authors: Idowu Modoluwamu , Taiwo Godstime , Sidney Taylor , Adewoye Anjola , Ogunade Ibukun M.
Published: July 2024

We utilized plasma proteomics profiling to explore metabolic pathways and key proteins associated with divergent residual body weight gain (RADG) phenotype in crossbred (Angus × Hereford) beef steers. A group of 108 crossbred growing beef steers (average BW = 282.87 ± 30 kg; age = 253 ± 28 days) were fed a high-forage total mixed ration for 49 days in five dry lot pens (20–22 beef steers per pen), each equipped with two GrowSafe8000 intake nodes to determine their RADG phenotype. After RADG identification, blood samples were collected from the beef steers with the highest RADG (most efficient; n = 15; 0.76 kg/d) and lowest RADG (least efficient; n = 15; −0.65 kg/d). Plasma proteomics analysis was conducted on all plasma samples using a nano LC–MS/MS platform. Proteins with FC ≥ 1.2 and false-discovery rate-adjusted p-values (FDR) ≤ 0.05 were considered significantly differentially abundant. The analysis identified 435 proteins, with 59 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) between positive and negative-RADG beef steers. Plasma abundance of 38 proteins, such as macrophage stimulating 1 and peptidase D was upregulated (FC ≥ 1.2, FDR ≤ 0.05) in positive-RADG beef steers, while 21 proteins, including fibronectin and ALB protein were greater (FC < 1.2, FDR ≤ 0.05) in negative-RADG beef steers. The results of the Gene Ontology (GO) analysis of all the DAPs showed enrichment of pathways such as metabolic processes, biological regulation, and catalytic activity in positive-RADG beef steers. Results of the EuKaryotic Orthologous Groups (KOG) analysis revealed increased abundance of DAPs involved in energy production and conversion, amino acid transport and metabolism, and lipid transport and metabolism in positive-RADG beef steers. The results of this study revealed key metabolic pathways and proteins associated with divergent RADG phenotype in beef cattle which give more insight into the biological basis of feed efficiency in crossbred beef cattle.
Research on Spatial Developable Mechanism Considering Revolute Clearance Joints with Irregular Rough Surfaces
Authors: Wang Junyu , Zhang Huibo , Wang Wenyu , Qi Chaoqun , Xu Jianan , Zhao Yang , Ma Chao , Tian Jian
Published: July 2024

Due to assembling, manufacturing errors, and wear, irregular rough surfaces inevitably exist in joints, which will increase the contact stiffness nonlinearity at the joint of the spatial developable mechanism, and the traditional contact force model is difficult to accurately predict the contact force change of irregular rough surface clearance. Aiming at the difficulty of accurately predicting the dynamic behavior of the spatial developable mechanism caused by rough joint clearance, an improved clearance contact force modeling method based on an uncoordinated contact model is proposed in this paper. The influence of rough peak distribution on the contact area is analyzed. The stiffness of the traditional Hertz model is modified based on the probability distribution density function of the rough peak, and an improved contact force model based on dynamic contact stiffness is established. Based on the Lagrange multiplier method, the dynamics model of spatial developable mechanism is constructed. Based on the model, the dynamic analysis of the spatial expansion mechanism is carried out, and the influence of the roughness of the contact surface and the size of the clearance on the dynamic characteristics of the system are explored; as well, the influence of different clearance parameters on the dynamic characteristics of the development mechanism is revealed. Through the analysis, this paper provides a theoretical basis for predicting the effect of a spatial revolute clearance joint on the dynamic characteristics of the mechanism and lays a good foundation for the manufacture and application of the mechanism.
Optimization Study of Steady-State Aerial-Towed Cable Circling Strategy Based on BP Neural Network Prediction
Authors: Feng Luqi , Liu Xueqiang , Nio Zi Feng
Published: July 2024

This paper presents models for UAV aerial-towed cables in free-end and fixed-end configurations, crucial for tasks like communication and aerial charging. By establishing a quasi steady-state model, computational results on cable shapes are obtained. To accelerate computations, a backpropagation (BP) neural network prediction model is trained, significantly reducing the computation time. An evaluation function has been developed that integrates both aircraft performance and cable shape considerations to evaluate circling parameters across various states. This function integrates techniques such as BP neural networks and particle swarm optimization (PSO) to refine parameters such as velocities and bank angles for both free-end and fixed-end cables. The results show that the BP neural network accurately predicts cable shapes, achieving a maximum error of 5% in towing force and verticality. Additionally, PSO efficiently optimizes circling parameters, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the evaluation function in identifying optimal solutions. This approach significantly improves the efficiency of determining optimal circling parameters for UAV aerial-towed cables, thereby contributing to their operational efficacy.