bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Carnosine on Oxidative Damage to the Kidneys in Experinental Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zharikov A. Yu. , Filinova S. O. , Mazko O. N. , Bobrov I. P. , Makarova O. G. , Kalnitsky A. S.
Published: April 2024

The article presents the results of a study into the effect of carnosine on oxidative damage to the kidneys in experimental diabetes mellitus. The experiment was carried out using two groups of Wistar rats: control (n=8) and experimental (n=11). In both groups, streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus was simulated for eight weeks. Experimental animals were intragastrically injected with carnosine (15 mg/kg) from weeks 4 to 8. The concentration of glucose, protein and creatinine excretion in urine were determined. At the end of eight weeks, the kidneys were removed from the rats to determine the indicators of oxidative stress severity (concentration of thiobarbiturate-reactive products, total antioxidant activity, activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase) and to conduct morphometry of the size of the renal glomeruli, the area of the vascular bed, capillaries and mesangium in the glomeruli, the number of podocytes. A comparison with the control showed the use of carnosine led to a 1.5-fold decrease in the concentration of thiobarbiturate-reactive products (p<0.001), a 2.2-fold increase in the total antioxidant activity (p<0.001), and a 1.2-fold increase in catalase activity (p=0.039). The area of the renal glomeruli and the mesangium in this group decreased by 1.6 times (p<0.001 and p=0.04, respectively). The total area of blood flow increased by 2.4 times (p<0.001), the area of one capillary, and the number of podocytes in the glomerulus increased by 1.9 times (p<0.001 and p=0.001). A 3.5-fold decrease in protein concentration in urine was also noted (p=0.007). Therefore, inhibition of the formation of advanced glycation end products by carnosine in experimental diabetes mellitus attenuates oxidative damage to the kidneys. This is evidenced by a decrease in proteinuria, an increase in the number of podocytes, a decrease in the area of the renal glomeruli, and an improvement in the condition of the glomerular vascular system.
Immigrant Colombian Women in the USA: Examining Adversity, Resilience, and Social Networks
Authors: Madrigal Cándida , Madrigal José L.
Published: April 2024

Immigration, involving departing from one's homeland and arriving in a host country, can profoundly influence an individual's psychosocial well-being. It encompasses phases marked by substantial changes, stress, family disintegration, and subsequent reintegration. This journey may lead to family breakdown and frequently involves adversity. Adapting to a fresh life in a new nation presents numerous challenges and necessitates sacrifices [1,2]. As a result, immigrants are highly susceptible to mental health issues [3-5]. Understanding immigration requires examining adaptation, integration modes, influencing circumstances, and shaping factors. Multiple theories contribute to exploring this complex phenomenon. Resilience, a trait inherent in individuals that enables them to effectively navigate psychosocial challenges in the face of adversity [6,7], is a vital concept to investigate concerning immigrants' adjustment to their new environment.
Serum albumin levels and risk of atrial fibrillation: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Bohang , Wang Chuqiao , Li Wenjie
Published: April 2024

Objective

Although several observational studies have linked serum albumin to cardiovascular disease and considered it as an important biomarker, little is known about whether increasing or maintaining serum albumin levels can effectively improve the prognosis of patients with atrial fibrillation. Therefore, this study aims to further explore the causal relationship between serum albumin and atrial fibrillation and its potential mechanism.

Method

Using data from large-scale genome-wide association studies, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and a mediation MR analysis, using serum albumin as the exposure variable and atrial fibrillation as the outcome variable. We included 486 serum metabolites as potential mediating factors. To increase the robustness of the analysis, we applied five statistical methods, including inverse variance weighted, weighted median, MR-Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode. Validate the MR results using Bayesian weighted Mendelian randomization method.

Result

The results of the MR analysis indicate a significant inverse association between genetically predicted serum albumin concentration (g/L) and the risk of atrial fibrillation (Beta = −0.172, OR = 0.842, 95% CI: 0.753–0.941, p = 0.002). Further mediation MR analysis revealed that serum albumin may mediate the causal relationship with atrial fibrillation by affecting two serum metabolites, docosatrienoate and oleate/vaccenate, and the mediating effect was significant. In addition, all our instrumental variables showed no heterogeneity and level-multiplicity in the MR analysis. To verify the stability of the results, we also conducted a sensitivity analysis using the leave-one-out method, and the results further confirmed that our findings were robust and reliable. Finally, we conducted a validation using the Bayesian weighted Mendelian randomization method, which demonstrated the reliability of our causal inference results.

Conclusion

This study strongly demonstrates the causal relationship between serum albumin and reduced risk of atrial fibrillation through genetic methods, and reveals the key mediating role of two serum metabolites in this relationship. These findings not only provide a new perspective for our understanding of the role of serum albumin in atrial fibrillation, but also provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment strategies of atrial fibrillation.
Research on the rebound rule of a pit bottom caused by excavation of typical strata
Authors: Yang Qingyuan , Lu Yaobo , Wang Shilu , Wang Ming , Chen Song , Wang Xiaoming
Published: April 2024

In practical engineering, the magnitude of soil unloading rebound is closely related to the physical and mechanical properties of the soil. Therefore, there are significant differences in geological conditions among the different regions. As such, targeted research on the rebound law and calculation methods of foundation pits is needed. This article reports indoor experiments and numerical simulation methods which are used to study the trends and calculation methods of foundation pit rebound based on typical geological conditions in South China. Our findings are as follows. 1) At maximum consolidation stress ranging from 100 kPa to 400kPa, the maximum rebound rate of plain fill soil in typical soil layers is 0.0539–0.0704, the rebound rate of silty clay is 0.0373–0.0528, the rebound rate of coarse sand is 0.0296–0.0343, the rebound rate of gravelly cohesive soil is 0.0159–0.0305, the rebound rate of fully weathered granite is 0.0175–0.0344, and the rebound rate of strongly weathered granite is 0.0170–0.0379. 2) The rebound indices do not change with changes in the unloading ratio or initial consolidation stress. The rebound indices of the soil layer from top to bottom are 0.0143, 0.0119, 0.0077, 0.0096, 0.0083, and 0.0076, respectively, and a formula for calculating the rebound modulus of typical soil layers in South China was proposed. 3) The pore ratio of the soil after the end of the recompression process is lower than that which occurs after the first compression. The difference between the compression porosity ratio of the soil layer from top to bottom and the compression porosity ratio is 0.1, 0.08, 0.02, 0.06, 0.02, and 0.03, respectively. 4) The calculation of the depth of influence by the self-weight stress offset method is based on the theory of eliminating self-weight stress and unloading stress. The calculation depth is not affected by geological conditions, the formula for calculating the rebound modulus is consistent with the formula obtained from experimental research, and the calculation results are in good agreement with the numerical values.
Study on load-bearing behaviors of prestressed post-grouting tubular piles in the karst region of northern Fujian Province, China
Authors: Huang Lingjun , Gao Rui , Chi Jingou , Yan Xiaocai
Published: April 2024

The karst that is dominated by medium-weathered limestone and caves with various spatial features is widely distributed in the northern Fujian Province. This paper discusses the load-bearing behaviors of post-grouting tubular piles in karst region of north Fujian Province with reference to the prestressed tubular piles adopted in the residential buildings of Haixi Comprehensive Trade City Phase II Project in Sanming City. The load-settlement curve, pile side friction resistance, and pile end resistance of tubular piles are analyzed by finite element numerical simulations and field static load tests. The load-bearing behaviors of prestressed tubular piles under karst geological conditions with two different spatial features are comparatively investigated, and the effectiveness of tubular pile reinforcement is verified by field settlement observation. The results reveal that the finite element numerical model can effectively simulate the tubular pile-soil interaction. The use of pile end post-grouting of prestressed tubular piles in the karst region can significantly increase their load-bearing capacities. The top settlements of grouted tubular piles under the maximum test load can be reduced by 16.8%–22.3% compared with these of ungrouted test piles, and the theoretical simulated ultimate load-bearing capacity can be increased by 27.3%. The adoption of pile end post-grouting technique can reduce the pile end displacement of tubular piles and improve the proportion of pile end resistance. Plastic-hard plastic breccia silty clay can be used as a bearing stratum for post-grouting to achieve excellent grouting performance. The bead-shaped karst caves are more unfavorable to the exertion of load-bearing capacity of the tubular piles than the karst caves filled with plastic-hard plastic breccia silty clay to which the piles have direct access. The field monitored average settlements of the 19# and 17# buildings under karst geological conditions with two different spatial features are −12.88 mm and −8.98 mm, respectively, both of which do not exceed the warning value, indicating that it is feasible for the project to adopt the pile end post-grouting technique of the tubular piles. The achievements of this study help to further reveal the load-bearing mechanism of this type of pile, which can provide a basis for its engineering design and construction optimization.
Including neurodiversity in computational thinking
Authors: Asbell-Clarke Jodi , Dahlstrom-Hakki Ibrahim , Voiklis John , Attaway Bennett , Barchas-Lichtenstein Jena , Edwards Teon , Bardar Erin , Robillard Tara , Paulson Kelly , Grover Shuchi , Israel Maya , Ke Fengfeng , Weintrop David
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The foundational practices of Computational Thinking (CT) present an interesting overlap with neurodiversity, specifically with differences in executive function (EF). An analysis of CT teaching and learning materials designed for differentiation and support of EF show promise to reveal problem-solving strengths of neurodivergent learners.

Methods

To examine this potential, studies were conducted using a computer-supported, inclusive, and highly interactive learning program named INFACT that was designed with the hypothesis that all students, including neurodivergent learners, will excel in problem solving when it is structured through a variety of CT activities (including games, puzzles, robotics, coding, and physical activities) and supported with EF scaffolds. The INFACT materials were used in 12 treatment classrooms in grades 3–5 for at least 10  h of implementation. Pre-post assessments of CT were administered to treatment classes as well as 12 comparison classes that used 10  h of other CT teaching and learning materials. EF screeners were also used with all classes to disaggregate student results by quartile of EF.

Findings

Students using INFACT materials showed a significant improvement in CT learning as compared to comparison classes. Students with EF scores in the lower third of the sample showed the greatest improvement.

Discussion

This study shows promising evidence that differentiated activities with EF scaffolds situated across several contexts (e.g., games, puzzles, physical activities, robotics, coding) promote effective CT learning in grades 3–5.
Demographic characteristics and prevalence of asymptomatic Leishmania donovani infection in migrant workers working in an endemic area in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yimer Mulat , Takele Yegnasew , Yizengaw Endalew , Nibret Endalkachew , Sumova Petra , Volf Petr , Yismaw Gizachew , Alehegn Michael , Rowan Aileen , Müller Ingrid , Cotton James A. , Chapman Lloyd A. C. , Kropf Pascale
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a neglected tropical disease that causes substantial morbidity and mortality, is a serious health problem in Ethiopia. Infections are caused by Leishmania (L.) donovani parasites. Most individuals remain asymptomatic, but some develop VL, which is generally fatal if not treated. We identified the area of Metema-Humera in Northwest Ethiopia as a setting in which we could follow migrant workers when they arrived in an endemic area. The demographic characteristics of this population and factors associated with their risk of asymptomatic infection are poorly characterised.

Methods

We divided our cohort into individuals who visited this area for the first time (first comers, FC) and those who had already been in this area (repeat comers, RC). We followed them from the beginning (Time 1, T1) to the end of the agricultural season (Time 2, T2), performing tests for sand fly bite exposure (anti-sand fly saliva antibody ELISA) and serology for Leishmania infection (rK39 rapid diagnostic test and the direct agglutination test) at each time point and collecting information on risk factors for infection.

Results

Our results show that most migrant workers come from non-endemic areas, are male, young (median age of 20 years) and are farmers or students. At T1, >80% of them had been already exposed to sand fly bites, as shown by the presence of anti-saliva antibodies. However, due to seasonality of sand flies there was no difference in exposure between FC and RC, or between T1 and T2. The serology data showed that at T1, but not at T2, a significantly higher proportion of RC were asymptomatic. Furthermore, 28.6% of FC became asymptomatic between T1 and T2. Over the duration of this study, one FC and one RC developed VL. In multivariable logistic regression of asymptomatic infection at T1, only age and the number of visits to Metema/Humera were significantly associated with asymptomatic infection.

Conclusion

A better understanding of the dynamics of parasite transmission and the risk factors associated with the development of asymptomatic infections and potentially VL will be essential for the development of new strategies to prevent leishmaniasis.
LINC01614 is a promising diagnostic and prognostic marker in HNSC linked to the tumor microenvironment and oncogenic function
Authors: Tian Xiong , Hu Dali , Wang Na , Zhang Lele , Wang Xuequan
Published: April 2024

Background

Tumor initiation and metastasis influence tumor immune exclusion and immunosuppression. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) LINC01614 is associated with the prognosis and metastasis of several cancers. However, the relationship between LINC01614 and cancer immune infiltration and the biofunction of LINC01614 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) remain unclear.

Methods

The Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets were used to analyze the expression difference and diagnostic value of LINC01614 in normal and tumor tissues. The correlation of pan-cancer prognosis and tumor stage of LINC01614 was analyzed based on the TCGA database. The pan-cancer association of LINC01614 expression with the tumor microenvironment (TME) including immune infiltration, expression of immune-related genes, and genomic instability parameters, was analyzed using the Spearman correlation method. The correlation between LINC01614 and tumor stemness evaluation indicators, RNA methylation-related genes, and drug resistance was also analyzed. The functional analysis of LINC01614 was performed using the clusterProfiler R package. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and ceRNA network of LINC01614 co-expressed genes and miRNA were constructed and visualized by STRING and Cytoscape, respectively. Finally, the cell location and influence of LINC01614 on cell proliferation and metastasis of HNSC cell lines were evaluated using FISH, CCK-8, wound-healing assay, and transwell assay.

Results

LINC01614 was found to be overexpressed in 23 cancers and showed a highly sensitive prediction value in nine cancers (AUC >0.85). LINC01614 dysregulation was associated with tumor stage in 12 cancers and significantly influenced the survival outcomes of 26 cancer types, with only Lymphoid Neoplasm Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBC), uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC), and bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) showing a benign influence. LINC01614 was also associated with immune cell infiltration, tumor heterogeneity, cancer stemness, RNA methylation modification, and drug resistance. The potential biological function of LINC01614 was verified in HNSC, and it was found to play important roles in proliferation, immune infiltration, immunotherapy response, and metastasis of HNSC.

Conclusion

LINC01614 may serve as a cancer diagnosis and prognosis biomarker and an immunotherapy target for specific cancers.
Tensioned flexible riser vibrations under wave excitation, an investigation on the scale effect
Authors: Feng Yunli , Li Sunwei , Chen Daoyi
Published: April 2024

In order to study the scale effect in wave-structure interactions and the role that structure-related parameters (tension T or bending stiffness EI) plays, riser model tests under regular waves were conducted using the model with multiple geometric scales (1:15, 1:12 and 1:9) in a wave basin. The riser model used is a novel structural design combing the outer polyvinyl chloride pipe with the core steel rod which could be simplified as a cantilever beam. Different initial tension T acting on the riser are tested by adjusting the slotted weight. The results show that the amplitude varies in a cubic fashion with the distance from the fixed end. In addition, the influence of the wave period and top tension T on the amplitude are investigated, which ultimately leads to a dimensionless number π1 = KCd·TL2/EI where KC is the classical Keulegan–Carpenter number (KC), EI shows the bending stiffness of the riser model and L gives the pipe length. With the KC number revised to take the distance from the fixed end into the calculation, this parameter provides a good measure in estimating the amplitudes of the riser vibrations induced by the waves.
In vivo MRI and PET imaging in a translational ILD mouse model expressing non-resolving fibrosis and bronchiectasis-like pathology after repeated systemic exposure to bleomycin
Authors: Mahmutovic Persson Irma , Fransén Petterson Nina , Liu Jian , in ‘t Zandt René , Carvalho Carla , Örbom Anders , Olsson Lars E. , von Wachenfeldt Karin
Published: April 2024

Drug-induced interstitial lung disease (ILD) is crucial to detect early to achieve the best treatment outcome. Optimally, non-invasive imaging biomarkers can be used for early detection of disease progression and treatment follow-up. Therefore, reliable in vivo models are warranted in new imaging biomarker development to accelerate better-targeted treatment options. Single-dose bleomycin models have, for a long time, served as a reference model in fibrosis and lung injury research. Here, we aimed to use a clinically more relevant animal model by systemic exposure to bleomycin and assessing disease progression over time by combined magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice received bleomycin (i.p. 35iU/kg) or saline as control twice per week for 4 weeks. Mice were monitored until 2 weeks after cessation of bleomycin administration (w4 + 1 and w4 + 2), referred to as the resting period. MRI scans were performed in weeks 3 and 4 and during the resting weeks. [18F]FDG-PET was performed at the last week of dosing (w4) and 2 weeks after the last dosing (w4 + 2). Lung tissue sections were stained with Masson’s trichrome and evaluated by modified Ashcroft scoring. Lung volume and lesion volumes were assessed using MRI, as well as 3D mapping of the central airways.

Results and discussion

Bleomycin-challenged mice showed increased lung weights (p < 0.05), while total lung volume was unchanged (w4 and onward). Histology analysis demonstrated fibrotic lesions emanating from the distal parts of the lung. Fibrosis progression was visualized by MRI with significantly increased high signal in bleomycin-exposed lungs compared to controls (p < 0.05). In addition, a significant increase in central airway diameter (p < 0.01) was displayed in bleomycin-exposed animals compared to controls and further continued to dilate as the disease progressed, comparing the bleomycin groups over time (p < 0.05–0.001). Lung [18F]FDG uptake was significantly elevated in bleomycin-exposed mice compared to controls (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Non-invasive imaging displayed progressing lesions in the lungs of bleomycin-exposed mice, using two distinct MRI sequences and [18F]FDG-PET. With observed fibrosis progression emanating from distal lung areas, dilation of the central airways was evident. Taken together, this chronic bleomycin-exposure model is translationally more relevant for studying lung injury in ILD and particularly in the context of DIILD.
Immunomodulatory effects of hydatid antigens on mesenchymal stem cells: gene expression alterations and functional consequences
Authors: Wang Xin , Mijiti Wubulikasimu , Yi Zhifei , Jia Qiyu , Ma Junchao , Xie Zengru
Published: April 2024

Background

Cystic echinococcosis, caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus, remains a global health challenge. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are renowned for their regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. Given the parasite’s mode of establishment, we postulate that MSCs likely play a pivotal role in the interaction between the parasite and the host. This study aims to explore the response of MSCs to antigens derived from Echinococcus granulosus, the etiological agent of hydatid disease, with the hypothesis that exposure to these antigens may alter MSC function and impact the host’s immune response to the parasite.

Methods

MSCs were isolated from mouse bone marrow and co-cultured with ESPs, HCF, or pLL antigens. We conducted high-throughput sequencing to examine changes in the MSCs’ mRNA expression profile. Additionally, cell cycle, migration, and secretory functions were assessed using various assays, including CCK8, flow cytometry, real-time PCR, Western blot, and ELISA.

Results

Our analysis revealed that hydatid antigens significantly modulate the mRNA expression of genes related to cytokine and chemokine activity, impacting MSC proliferation, migration, and cytokine secretion. Specifically, there was a downregulation of chemokines (MCP-1, CXCL1) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, NOS2/NO), alongside an upregulation of anti-inflammatory mediators (COX2/PGE2). Furthermore, all antigens reduced MSC migration, and significant alterations in cellular metabolism-related pathways were observed.

Conclusion

Hydatid disease antigens induce a distinct immunomodulatory response in MSCs, characterized by a shift towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype and reduced cell migration. These changes may contribute to the parasite’s ability to evade host defenses and persist within the host, highlighting the complex interplay between MSCs and hydatid disease antigens. This study provides valuable insights into the pathophysiology of hydatid disease and may inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Associations between benign paroxysmal positional vertigo and seven mental disorders: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Shihan , Zhang Lingli , Deng Dan , Luo Wenlong
Published: April 2024

Background

The association between benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and various mental disorders is still controversial. This study used the Mendelian randomization (MR) method to clarify the correlation between BPPV and seven mental disorders (bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, suicidality, neuroticism, and mood swings) to aid in the exploration of BPPV complications and prevention and early treatment of mental disorders.

Methods

The datasets for BPPV and seven mental disorders were obtained from genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Two-sample MR was used to analyze the correlation between exposure (BPPV) and various outcomes (bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, suicidality, neuroticism, and mood swings). A reverse MR study was also performed. The inverse variance weighting (IVW) method, the MR–Egger method, the simple mode method, the weighted mode method, and the weighted median method were selected.

Results

The MR analysis and the reverse MR analysis results did not reveal significant associations between BPPV and bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, suicidal tendencies, neuroticism, and mood swings. Interestingly, neuroticism (IVW: OR = 1.142, 95% CI: 1.059–1.231, P = 0.001; P-MR-PRESSO adjustment = 0.0002) and mood swings (IVW: OR = 3.119, 95% CI: 1.652–5.884, P = 0.0004) may have a significant association with BPPV. After MR-PRESSO adjustment, there was no horizontal pleiotropy or heterogeneity, and a significant association between neuroticism, mood swings, and BPPV has still been suggested.

Conclusion

We conducted MR analysis on genetic data from European populations and discovered a causal relationship between BPPV and the seven mental disorders. Our research findings suggest that BPPV may not have a significant causal relationship with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, or suicidal tendencies. However, neuroticism and mood swings may be risk factors for BPPV.
Neuroanatomical correlates of gross manual dexterity in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Beani Elena , Barzacchi Veronica , Scaffei Elena , Ceragioli Beatrice , Festante Fabrizia , Filogna Silvia , Cioni Giovanni , Fiori Simona , Sgandurra Giuseppina
Published: April 2024

Unilateral spastic Cerebral Palsy (UCP) results from congenital brain injury, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has a role in understanding the etiology and severity of brain insult. In UCP, functional impairment predominantly occurs in the upper limb (UL) of the more affected side, where manual ability and dexterity are typically reduced. Also, mirror movements (MMs), are often present in UCP, with a further possible negative functional impact. This study aims to investigate the relationships among neuroanatomical characteristics of brain injury at MRI, manual functional impairment and MMs, in children with UCP. Thirty-five children with UCP participated in the study (20, M = 15, F, mean age 9.2 ± 3.5 years). Brain lesions at MRI were categorized according to the Magnetic Resonance Classification System (MRICS) and by using a semi-quantitative MRI (sqMRI) scale. Gross manual performance was assessed through Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) and the Box and Block Test (BBT), and MMs by Woods and Teuber scale, for both hands. Non-parametric correlation analyses were run to determine the relationship between neuroanatomical and functional features. Regression models were run to explore the contribution of neuroanatomical features and MMs to UL function. Correlation analyses revealed moderate to strong associations between sqMRI scores contralateral to the more affected side and UL functional impairment on MACS and BBT, with more severe brain injuries significantly correlating with poorer function in the more affected hand. No association emerged between brain lesion severity scores and MMs. MRICS showed no association with MACS or BBT, while a significant correlation emerged between MRICS category and MMs in the more affected hand, with brain lesion category that are suggestive of presumed earlier injury being associated with more severe MMs. Finally, exploratory regression analyses showed that neuroanatomical characteristics of brain injury and MMs contributed to the variability of UL functional impairment. This study contributes to the understanding of the neuroanatomical and neurological correlates of some aspects of manual functional impairment in UCP by using a simple clinical brain MRI assessment.
A comparative study of stereo-dependent SSVEP targets and their impact on VR-BCI performance
Authors: Liu Haifeng , Wang Zhengyu , Li Ruxue , Zhao Xi , Xu Tianheng , Zhou Ting , Hu Honglin
Published: April 2024

Steady-state visual evoked potential brain-computer interfaces (SSVEP-BCI) have attracted significant attention due to their ease of deployment and high performance in terms of information transfer rate (ITR) and accuracy, making them a promising candidate for integration with consumer electronics devices. However, as SSVEP characteristics are directly associated with visual stimulus attributes, the influence of stereoscopic vision on SSVEP as a critical visual attribute has yet to be fully explored. Meanwhile, the promising combination of virtual reality (VR) devices and BCI applications is hampered by the significant disparity between VR environments and traditional 2D displays. This is not only due to the fact that screen-based SSVEP generally operates under static, stable conditions with simple and unvaried visual stimuli but also because conventional luminance-modulated stimuli can quickly induce visual fatigue. This study attempts to address these research gaps by designing SSVEP paradigms with stereo-related attributes and conducting a comparative analysis with the traditional 2D planar paradigm under the same VR environment. This study proposed two new paradigms: the 3D paradigm and the 3D-Blink paradigm. The 3D paradigm induces SSVEP by modulating the luminance of spherical targets, while the 3D-Blink paradigm employs modulation of the spheres' opacity instead. The results of offline 4-object selection experiments showed that the accuracy of 3D and 2D paradigm was 85.67 and 86.17% with canonical correlation analysis (CCA) and 86.17 and 91.73% with filter bank canonical correlation analysis (FBCCA), which is consistent with the reduction in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of SSVEP harmonics for the 3D paradigm observed in the frequency-domain analysis. The 3D-Blink paradigm achieved 75.00% of detection accuracy and 27.02 bits/min of ITR with 0.8 seconds of stimulus time and task-related component analysis (TRCA) algorithm, demonstrating its effectiveness. These findings demonstrate that the 3D and 3D-Blink paradigms supported by VR can achieve improved user comfort and satisfactory performance, while further algorithmic optimization and feature analysis are required for the stereo-related paradigms. In conclusion, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the impact of binocular stereoscopic vision mechanisms on SSVEP paradigms and promotes the application of SSVEP-BCI in diverse VR environments.
Correlation of DNA load, genotyping, and clinical phenotype of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Lu , Yin Zhaoqing , Zeng Shujuan , Yao Guohua , Liu Yuqiao , Fang Yulian , Ma Cuian , Cui Hualei
Published: April 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP)-DNA load in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of children with MP pneumonia (MPP) and its subtypes, relevant laboratory data, imaging, extrapulmonary complications in infected children, and its clinical significance in evaluating the disease.

Methods

Children hospitalized with MPP at Tianjin Children's Hospital between December 2017 and December 2020 were selected for the study, excluding those with mixed viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. Children were divided into low- and high-load groups according to the MP DNA load in BALF using real-time quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (PCR). After a successful MP culture, positive specimens were subjected to PCR-Restriction fragment length polymorphism and Multiple-locus variable number tandem repeat analysis typing. Basic data, clinical information, laboratory data, and radiological results were collected from all children included in the study.

Results

The PI-I type dominated the different load groups. Children in the low-load group had more wheezing and shortness of breath; however, children in the high-load group had a higher length of hospitalization, maximum fever temperature, higher chills/chilliness, incidence of abdominal pain, and higher C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. Children in the high-load group were more likely to have imaging changes such as pleural effusion, and the incidence of respiratory infections and extrapulmonary complications was higher than that of those in the low-load group. We applied Spearman's correlation analysis to clarify the relationship between MP DNA load and the clinical severity of MPP. We found that MP DNA load was positively correlated with length of hospitalization, maximum fever temperature, CRP, PCT, Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and AST levels, and negatively correlated with fever and cough durations, white blood cell count (WBC), and proportion of monocytes (MONO). The degree of correlation was as follows: length of hospitalization > IL-6 > cough duration > AST > fever duration > PCT > WBC > proportion of MONO > maximum fever temperature > CRP levels.

Conclusions

MP DNA load was not correlated with MP typing but was significantly correlated with the children's clinical phenotype. Therefore, the MP DNA load helps in the early diagnosis of infection and can better predict disease regression.
Antibiotics influence the risk of anti-drug antibody formation during anti-TNF therapy in Chinese inflammatory bowel disease patients
Authors: Sun Meng , Ju Jingyi , Xu Hongzhen , Luo Mengqi , Li Zhaoyang , Wang Yufang
Published: April 2024

Aims: The formation of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) during anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy is reported to lead to reducing serum drug levels, which may bring about a loss of response to treatment. Previous research has suggested an association between specific antibiotic classes and ADA formation during anti-TNF therapy. However, there are few studies specifically examining this association in Chinese inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the possible effect of antibiotic use on ADA formation to anti-TNF therapy in Chinese patients with IBD.

Methods: A total of 166 patients with IBD, including 149 with Crohn’s disease (CD) and 17 with ulcerative colitis (UC), were included in this retrospective analysis. These patients were initially treated with anti-TNF therapy (infliximab or adalimumab) after January 2018 and reviewed with available ADA levels before October 2023. After univariable analysis of all the variables, a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the association between antibiotic use and ADA development.

Results: Among 166 IBD patients treated with infliximab (108/166, 65.1%) or adalimumab (58/166, 34.9%), 31 patients (18.7%) were measured as positive ADA levels. Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated an increased risk of ADA formation in IBD patients who used β-lactam-β-lactamase inhibitor combinations (BL-BLIs) (HR = 5.143, 95%CI 1.136–23.270, p = 0.033), or nitroimidazoles (HR = 4.635, 95%CI 1.641–13.089, p = 0.004) during 12 months before the ADA test. On the contrary, a reduced risk was noted in patients treated with fluoroquinolones (HR = 0.258, 95% CI 0.072–0.924, p = 0.037). Moreover, the median serum infliximab or adalimumab concentration in patients with positive ADA levels was significantly lower than that in patients with negative ADA levels (infliximab: 0.30 vs. 1.85 μg/mL, p < 0.0001; adalimumab: 0.45 vs. 7.55 μg/mL, p = 0.0121).

Conclusion: ADA development is associated with various antibiotic classes. BL-BLIs and nitroimidazoles might increase the risk of ADA formation during anti-TNF therapy in Chinese IBD patients, while the treatment with fluoroquinolones could probably reduce such risk. There were certain limitations in the retrospective analysis of the study, therefore, the results are just for reference, and other studies are needed to further confirm our findings.
Evaluation of stripe rust resistance and genome-wide association study in wheat varieties derived from the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas
Authors: Gao Zhonghao , Wang Xin , Li Yunxiang , Hou Wanwei , Zhang Xiaojuan
Published: April 2024

159 wheat varieties obtained from ICARDA, CYR32, CYR33 and CYR34 were used to evaluate the stripe rust resistance in this study. Seedling resistance was carried out in the green house at the two-leaf stage. Adult-plant resistance was carried out between 2022 and 2023 in Xining and Guide, respectively. A total of 24,151 high-quality SNP loci were obtained from a 55K SNP chip data. Genome-wide association study was carried out between SNP loci and stripe rust resistance. Seedling resistance screening revealed that 91.8% (146) of wheat varieties were resistant to CYR32 and CYR33, while only 49.7% (79) of wheat varieties were resistant to CYR34. Adult-plant resistance showed 153 (96.2%) germplasms represented resistance in 2022, while only 85 (53.4%) showed resistance in 2023. An association study using the 55K SNP chip data results combined with disease ratings of 159 materials at both the seedling and adult stages discovered 593 loci related to stripe rust resistance (P ≤ 0.0001). These loci exhibited contribution rates ranging from 11.1% to 18.7%. Among them, 71 were significantly related to resistance against CYR32 at the seedling stage, with a contribution rate of 12.7%-17.2%. Constituting the vast majority, 518 loci distributed across 21 chromosomes were significantly related to CYR33 at the seedling stage, with a contribution rate of 12.6%-18.7%. Fewer loci were found to be associated with disease resistance in adult plants. In E1 environment, a sole locus was detected on chromosome 2B with a contribution rate of 14.4%. In E2 environment, however, exhibited three loci across chromosomes 2B, 4A, and 7B with contribution rates ranging from 11.1% to 16.9%. A total of 68 multi-effect loci were significantly related to resistance against both CYR32 and CYR33 at the seedling stage, and one stable locus was significantly associated with stripe rust resistance at the adult plant stage.
Healing wounded trees: clinicians’ perspectives on treatment of complex posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Drožđek Boris , Rodenburg Jan
Published: April 2024

While treatment guidelines agree on the first-line interventions for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), there is an ongoing debate between experts regarding the treatment of complex posttraumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). As scientific research is slowly emerging, different treatment approaches are used in clinical practice This article aims to provide a set of treatment options for C-PTSD in adult survivors of repeated exposure to severe violence and abuse, both in childhood and later on in life. The developmental-contextual perspective on mental health forms the basis of this approach. This perspective is elaborated using the tree metaphor. Then, several treatment strategies are suggested. The presented strategies are a combination of the existing evidence-based approaches for the treatment of PTSD and personality disorders. They target psychological damage in survivors while taking their developmental trajectories and ecological environments into consideration. The treatment model presented is based on longstanding clinical practice and it may be a promising framework for treating C-PTSD. However, it still needs to be scientifically examined for acceptability and effectiveness.
Associations between regular physical exercise and physical, emotional, and cognitive health of older adults in China: an 8-year longitudinal study with propensity score matching
Authors: Xu Xiaoyan , Zheng Yawen , Fang Juan , Huang Jiahui , Yang Xudong , Zhu Xianghe , Liu Yanlong , Chen Li , Wu Shaochang
Published: April 2024

Background

The importance of healthy aging is growing in China as it has the largest number of older adults in the world and is one of the fastest-aging countries. This study aimed to examine the predictive value of regular physical exercise in relation to the physical, emotional, and cognitive health among samples of adults aged ≥60 years in China during an 8-year period.

Methods

A total of 10,691 older adults were extracted from two waves of national data from the China Family Panel Studies in 2010 and 2018. To minimize the impact of selection bias on the findings, a longitudinal propensity score matching (LPSM) method was used to examine the relationships between regular physical exercise and emotional health (depression), between regular physical exercise and physical health (instrumental activities of daily living), and between regular physical exercise and cognitive health (cognitive ability) of older adults. After LPSM, 856 older adults were included in the study. In the regular physical exercise group, the average age of participants at baseline year was 65.67 years, with an average age of 65.90 years for 238 men and 65.45 years for 190 women, and in the non-physical exercise group, their average age at baseline year was 65.70 years, with an average age of 65.45 years for 253 men and 65.98 years for 175 women.

Results

LPSM indicated that regular physical exercise has been found to be effective in improving physical function and reducing depressive symptoms in old adults, even after controlling for background differences. However, the sensitivity analysis suggests that the positive association between regular physical exercise and cognitive function may not be sufficiently valid.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that engaging in long-term structured and repetitive physical exercise can have a significant positive effect on reducing depressive symptoms and improving the physical function of older adults. As a result, incorporating regular physical exercise into the lifestyle of older adults is recognized as an effective strategy for promoting healthy aging and reducing the strain on public health resources.
Cancer prevention in people experiencing homelessness: ethical considerations and experiences from the CANCERLESS project
Authors: Coronado-Vázquez María del Valle , Gómez-Trenado Rosa , Benito-Sánchez Beatriz , Barrio-Cortes Jaime , Gil-Salmerón Alejandro , Amengual-Pliego Miguel , Grabovac Igor
Published: April 2024

The incidence of cancer in Europe has been increasing in recent years. Despite this, cancer prevention has remained a low priority in health policies. Cancer is one of the main causes of mortality among people experiencing homelessness, who continue to have difficulties accessing prevention programs. A strategy that has been tested to favor cancer prevention is the health navigator figure. The objective of CANCERLESS project is to implement this model among populations experiencing homelessness in four European countries to foster the prevention and early detection of cancer. In this perspective, a presentation of CANCERLESS project is made, and its ethical aspects are discussed according to the ethics of public health, the ethics of care, solidarity, relational autonomy, and the social recognition of the virtue of just generosity. The ethical foundations of CANCERLESS project are rooted in social justice and in equity in access to health systems in general and cancer screening programs in particular. The ethics of public health guided by utilitarianism are insufficient in serving the interests of the most disadvantaged groups of the population. Hence, it is necessary to resort to relational bioethics that includes the ethics of care and solidarity and that recognizes the moral identity of socially excluded persons, reaffirming their position of equality in society. Relational autonomy therefore provides a broader conception by including the influence of living conditions in decisions. For this reason, the CANCERLESS project opts for a dialogue with those affected to incorporate their preferences and values into decisions about cancer prevention.
Association of two novel systemic inflammatory biomarkers and frailty based on NHANES 2007–2018
Authors: Zhang Huiling , Liu Xinyu , Wang Xiaoling , Jiang Ya
Published: April 2024

Background

Frailty is a significant concern in the field of public health. However, currently, there is a lack of widely recognized and reliable biological markers for frailty. This study aims to investigate the association between systemic inflammatory biomarkers and frailty in the older adult population in the United States.

Methods

This study employed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2007 to 2018 and conducted a rigorous cross-sectional analysis. We constructed weighted logistic regression models to explore the correlation between the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI), and frailty in the population aged 40 to 80 years. Using restricted cubic spline (RCS), we successfully visualized the relationship between SII, SIRI, and frailty. Finally, we presented stratified analyses and interaction tests of covariates in a forest plot.

Results

This study involved 11,234 participants, 45.95% male and 54.05% female, with an average age of 64.75 ± 0.13 years. After adjusting for relevant covariates, the weighted logistic regression model indicated an odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval(CI) for the correlation between frailty and the natural logarithm (ln) transformed lnSII and lnSIRI as 1.38 (1.24–1.54) and 1.69 (1.53–1.88), respectively. Subsequently, we assessed different levels of lnSII and lnSIRI, finding consistent results. In the lnSII group model, the likelihood of frailty significantly increased in the fourth quartile (OR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.55–2.12) compared to the second quartile. In the lnSIRI group model, the likelihood of frailty significantly increased in the third quartile (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.10–1.53) and fourth quartile (OR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.95–2.70) compared to the second quartile. The interaction results indicate that age and income-to-poverty ratio influence the association between lnSIRI and frailty. RCS demonstrated a nonlinear relationship between lnSII, lnSIRI, and frailty.

Conclusion

The results of this cross-sectional study indicate a positive correlation between systemic inflammatory biomarkers (SII, SIRI) and frailty.