bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Memories and mimics: unveiling the potential of FDG-PET in guiding therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative cognitive disorders
Authors: Huang Brendan , Sawicki Sara , Habiger Carolyn , Mattis Paul J. , Gordon Marc L. , Franceschi Ana M. , Giliberto Luca
Published: November 2024

Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging can help clinicians pursue the differential diagnosis of various neurodegenerative diseases. It has become an invaluable diagnostic tool in routine clinical practice in conjunction with computed tomography (CT) imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and biomarker studies. We present a single-institution case series and systematic literature review, showing how FDG-PET imaging has helped physicians diagnose neurodegenerative diseases and their mimickers and how patient care was amended. A single institution analysis and comprehensive literature search were completed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. These medical subjects’ headings (MeSH) terms were used: “FDG-PET” AND “dementia” OR “Alzheimer’s” OR “neurodegeneration” OR “frontotemporal dementia” OR “atypical parkinsonian syndrome” OR “primary progressive aphasia” OR “lewy body dementia.” The inclusion criteria included studies with uncertain diagnoses of neurocognitive disease resolved with FDG-PET, PET/MRI, or PET/CT hybrid imaging. A literature search resulted in 3,976 articles. After considering inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 case reports and 1 case series were selected, representing 19 patients. The average age of patients was 70.8 years (range: 54–83 years). Five of the 19 patients were females. Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) had the highest propensity for being misidentified as another neurodegenerative disease, followed by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Without accurate molecular imaging, neurodegenerative diseases may be missed or misdiagnosed. Our single-institution case series and literature review demonstrate how FDG-PET brain imaging can be used to correct and clarify preexisting clinical diagnoses of neurodegenerative disease.
The H-reflex study of the flexor carpi radialis muscle in healthy individuals
Authors: Mercan Metin , Kuruoğlu Reha
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the physiological and anatomical factors influencing the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) H-reflex and to establish reference values for FCR H-reflex parameters in relation to these factors.

Methods

The FCR H-reflexes, elicited by median nerve stimulation, were assessed in 80 healthy individuals both at rest and during isometric voluntary contraction (IVC). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed with H-reflex parameters as the dependent variables, while age, gender, height, arm length, and weight were included as independent variables.

Results

The FCR H-reflex was recorded bilaterally in nearly all healthy individuals (76 out of 80) during IVC, while it could be obtained in only 35% (28 out of 80) of these individuals at rest. During IVC, the maximum H-reflex amplitude (Hmax) and its ratio to the maximum M-response amplitude (Hmax/Mmax ratio) were significantly increased (p < 0.001). However, there were no changes in H-reflex latency, latency difference, conduction velocity (HRCV), or amplitude ratio (p > 0.05). In both conditions, age and arm length were the most important factors affecting H-reflex latency (p < 0.001), while HRCV was influenced only by age (p < 0.01). Women exhibited shorter H-reflex latencies (p < 0.01), and both Hmax amplitude and Hmax/Mmax ratio were higher in women during IVC (p < 0.05). The H-reflex amplitude ratio during IVC showed a tendency to decrease with age (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that FCR H-reflexes are more reliably elicited during IVC, and that both physiological and anatomical factors should be considered when assessing H-reflex abnormalities.
Role of Rho-associated kinases and their inhibitor fasudil in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Ye Qiuyan , Li Xue , Gao Wei , Gao Jiayue , Zheng Liping , Zhang Miaomiao , Yang Fengge , Li Honglin
Published: November 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are prevalent in the elderly. The pathogenesis of NDDs is complex, and currently, there is no cure available. With the increase in aging population, over 20 million people are affected by common NDDs alone (Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease). Therefore, NDDs have profound negative impacts on patients, their families, and society, making them a major global health concern. Rho-associated kinases (ROCKs) belong to the serine/threonine protein kinases family, which modulate diverse cellular processes (e.g., apoptosis). ROCKs may elevate the risk of various NDDs (including Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease) by disrupting synaptic plasticity and promoting inflammatory responses. Therefore, ROCK inhibitors have been regarded as ideal therapies for NDDs in recent years. Fasudil, one of the classic ROCK inhibitor, is a potential drug for treating NDDs, as it repairs nerve damage and promotes axonal regeneration. Thus, the current review summarizes the relationship between ROCKs and NDDs and the mechanism by which fasudil inhibits ROCKs to provide new ideas for the treatment of NDDs.
SMART-PET: a Self-SiMilARiTy-aware generative adversarial framework for reconstructing low-count [18F]-FDG-PET brain imaging
Authors: Raymond Confidence , Zhang Dong , Cabello Jorge , Liu Linshan , Moyaert Paulien , Burneo Jorge G. , Dada Michael O. , Hicks Justin W. , Finger Elizabeth , Soddu Andrea , Andrade Andrea , Jurkiewicz Michael T. , Anazodo Udunna C.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging, the use of tracers increases radioactive exposure for longitudinal evaluations and in radiosensitive populations such as pediatrics. However, reducing injected PET activity potentially leads to an unfavorable compromise between radiation exposure and image quality, causing lower signal-to-noise ratios and degraded images. Deep learning-based denoising approaches can be employed to recover low count PET image signals: nonetheless, most of these methods rely on structural or anatomic guidance from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and fails to effectively preserve global spatial features in denoised PET images, without impacting signal-to-noise ratios.

Methods

In this study, we developed a novel PET only deep learning framework, the Self-SiMilARiTy-Aware Generative Adversarial Framework (SMART), which leverages Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and a self-similarity-aware attention mechanism for denoising [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET images. This study employs a combination of prospective and retrospective datasets in its design. In total, 114 subjects were included in the study, comprising 34 patients who underwent 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose PET (FDG) PET imaging for drug-resistant epilepsy, 10 patients for frontotemporal dementia indications, and 70 healthy volunteers. To effectively denoise PET images without anatomical details from MRI, a self-similarity attention mechanism (SSAB) was devised. which learned the distinctive structural and pathological features. These SSAB-enhanced features were subsequently applied to the SMART GAN algorithm and trained to denoise the low-count PET images using the standard dose PET image acquired from each individual participant as reference. The trained GAN algorithm was evaluated using image quality measures including structural similarity index measure (SSIM), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), normalized root mean square (NRMSE), Fréchet inception distance (FID), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR).

Results

In comparison to the standard-dose, SMART-PET had on average a SSIM of 0.984 ± 0.007, PSNR of 38.126 ± 2.631 dB, NRMSE of 0.091 ± 0.028, FID of 0.455 ± 0.065, SNR of 0.002 ± 0.001, and CNR of 0.011 ± 0.011. Regions of interest measurements obtained with datasets decimated down to 10% of the original counts, showed a deviation of less than 1.4% when compared to the ground-truth values.

Discussion

In general, SMART-PET shows promise in reducing noise in PET images and can synthesize diagnostic quality images with a 90% reduction in standard of care injected activity. These results make it a potential candidate for clinical applications in radiosensitive populations and for longitudinal neurological studies.
Effects of polyphenol-rich seed foods on lipid and inflammatory markers in patients with coronary heart disease: a systematic review
Authors: Jia Yatian , Wang Hui , Fan Wen , Lv Jie , Niu Qingmei , Zhu Ruifang , Zhang Qian
Published: November 2024

Background

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a prevalent cardiovascular condition, with its incidence and mortality rates steadily rising over time, posing a significant threat to human health. Studies have indicated that polyphenols exhibit a certain degree of protective effect against coronary heart disease. However, the findings regarding the impact of polyphenol-rich seed foods on patients with CHD have yielded inconsistent results.

Objective

This study investigated the effects of polyphenol-rich seed foods on blood lipids and inflammatory markers in patients with coronary heart disease.

Methods

The China National Knowledge Network, China Science and Technology Journal Database, China Biomedical Literature Database, Wanfang Database, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for articles from the self-built database until March 16, 2024. The quality of the included studies was assessed using Edition 2 of the Cochrane Randomized Trials Risk Bias Tool, and data analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4.

Results

The study encompassed seven articles, with a total participation of 324 patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease. The study incorporated three seed foods abundant in polyphenols: Brazil nut, almond, and flaxseed. The meta-analysis findings revealed a significant reduction in triglyceride levels [MD = −20.03, 95% CI (−32.25, −17.44), p < 0.00001] among patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease who incorporated seed-based foods abundant in polyphenols into their diet regimen. Furthermore, a notable enhancement was observed in HDL cholesterol levels [MD = 3.14, 95% CI (1.55, 4.72), p = 0.0001]. Moreover, the type of intervention substance influenced the observed effects. The consumption of almonds has been demonstrated to significantly reduce total cholesterol [MD = −15.53, 95% CI (−21.97, −9.1), p < 0.00001] and LDL cholesterol [MD = −14.62, 95% CI (−20.92, −8.33), p < 0.00001] in patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease. Additionally, the incorporation of flaxseed into the diet has shown an enhanced effect on reducing C-reactive protein levels.

Conclusion

The consumption of polyphenol-rich seed foods can moderately improve TG and HDL-C levels in patients with coronary heart disease, while incorporating flaxseed into their diet can effectively improve inflammatory markers.
Gut microbiome’s causal role in head and neck cancer: findings from mendelian randomization
Authors: Lian Meng , Sun Minghong , Han Boxuan , Baranova Ancha , Cao Hongbao , Zhang Fuquan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The gut microbiome (GM) has been implicated in cancer pathogenesis and treatment, including head and neck cancers (HNC). However, the specific microbial compositions influencing HNC and the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown.

Methods

This study utilized published genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary data-based two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) to uncover the GM compositions that exert significant causal effects on HNC. Functional annotation and enrichment analysis were conducted to better understand the significant genetic variables and their connection with HNC. The HNC dataset included 2,281 cases and 314,193 controls. The GM GWAS data of 211 gut taxa (35 families, 20 orders, 16 classes, 9 phyla, and 131 genera) were obtained from the MibioGen consortium, involving 18,340 participants.

Results

MR analysis revealed four GM compositions exerting causal effects on HNC. Specifically, family Peptococcaceae.id.2024 was significantly associated with a 35% reduced risk of HNC (OR=0.65; 95%CI=0.48-0.90; P=0.0080). In contrast, genus DefluviitaleaceaeUCG-011.id.11287 (OR=1.54; 95%CI=1.13-2.09; P=0.0060), genus Gordonibacter.id.821 (OR=1.23; 95%CI=1.05-1.45; P=0.012), and genus Methanobrevibacter.id.123 (OR=1.28; 95%CI=1.01-1.62; P=0.040) showed a significant association with an increased risk of HNC. These GMs interact with genes and genetic variants involved in signaling pathways, such as GTPase regulation, influencing tumor progression and disease prognosis.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates, for the first time, the causal influence of specific gut microbiome compositions on HNC, offering significant insights for advancing clinical research and personalized treatments. The identified GMs may serve as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets, paving the way for innovative approaches in HNC diagnosis, prevention, and therapy.
Socioeconomic inequalities in COVID-19 infection and vaccine uptake among children and adolescents in Catalonia, Spain: a population-based cohort study
Authors: López-Sánchez Irene , Perramon-Malavez Aida , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Prats Clara , Duarte-Salles Talita , Raventós Berta , Roel Elena
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study aims to investigate the relationship between deprivation, as measured by a socioeconomic deprivation index (SDI) score for census tract urban areas, and COVID-19 infections and vaccine uptake among children and adolescents before and after the vaccination rollout in Catalonia, Spain.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cohort study using primary care records. Individuals were followed 3 months before the start of the vaccination campaign in Spain and 3 months after. Children (5–11 years) and adolescents (12–15 years) with at least 1 year of prior history observation available and without missing deprivation data. For each outcome, we estimated cumulative incidence and crude Cox proportional-hazard models by SDI quintiles, and hazard ratios (HRs) of COVID-19 infection and vaccine uptake relative to the least deprived quintile, Q1.

Results

Before COVID-19 vaccination rollout, 290,625 children and 179,685 adolescents were analyzed. Increased HR of deprivation was associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 infection in both children [Q5: 1.55 (95% CI, 1.47–1.63)] and adolescents [Q5: 1.36 (95% CI, 1.29–1.43)]. After the rollout, this pattern changed among children, with lower risk of infection in more deprived areas [Q5: 0.62 (95% CI, 0.61–0.64)]. Vaccine uptake was higher among adolescents than children, but in both age groups, non-vaccination was more common among those living in more deprived areas (39.3% and 74.6% in Q1 vs. 26.5% and 66.9% in Q5 among children and adolescents, respectively).

Conclusions

Children and adolescents living in deprived areas were at higher risk of COVID-19 non-vaccination. Socioeconomic disparities in COVID-19 infection were also evident before vaccine rollout, with a higher infection risk in deprived areas across age groups. Our findings suggest that changes in the association between deprivation and infections among children after the vaccine rollout were likely due to testing disparities.
Clinical and non-clinical aspects of reimbursement policy for orphan drugs in selected European countries
Authors: Jakubowski Szczepan , Holko Przemysław , Nowak Rafał , Warmuth Marisa , Dooms Marc , Salminen Outi , Cortial Lucas , Selke Gisbert W. , Georgi Christina , Magnússon Einar , Crisafulli Salvatore , Strijbosch Fons , Mueller Tanja , Grieve Eleanor , Danés Immaculada , Kawalec Paweł
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the reimbursement policy for orphan drugs (ODs) in selected European countries in relation to the availability and impact of clinical evidence, health technology assessment (HTA) procedures and reimbursement decision-making.

Materials and Methods

A list of authorized ODs was extracted from a web-based registry of the European Medicines Agency, including information on active substance, Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification code, and therapeutic area. A country-based questionnaire survey was conducted between September 2022 and September 2023 among selected experts from 12 European countries. A descriptive and statistical analysis was performed to identify correlations between country characteristic, HTA procedures, drug indication and positive recommendations or reimbursement decisions for ODs.

Results

Safety assessment for ODs was mandatory in 10 countries, while it was optional in one country (Italy) and not required in one country (Iceland). Efficacy assessment for ODs was mandatory in 11 countries and not required in one country (Iceland). The impact of safety and efficacy assessment on reimbursement decisions was rated as high in 10 countries and as low in one country (Germany). Dedicated OD legislation and policies were reported in seven countries. In two countries (Belgium, Iceland), the HTA was not mandatory, and in one country (Germany), it only had an informative function. A positive recommendation (from an HTA agency or advisory body) guaranteed reimbursement in four countries, while a negative recommendation excluded reimbursement only in one country (Iceland). The proportion of reimbursed ODs ranged from 23.5% in Iceland to 86% in Germany (p < 0.001). ODs with ATC code L represented the largest group of medicines (n = 49). They were also very frequently reimbursed ODs in the countries studied, with a mean of 61.8% (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

European countries differ in terms of the impact of clinical issues and additional clinical aspects on the reimbursement policy for ODs. Reimbursement decisions were affected by OD-specific legislation, policies, and EMA authorization status. HTA dossiers and procedures significantly influenced reimbursement decisions, although some ODs were reimbursed regardless of the positive or negative recommendations. ATC codes were significantly correlated with reimbursement status and positive recommendation.
Epidemiology, clinical characteristics and potential mechanism of ibrutinib-induced ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Pan Yilin , Zhao Yanan , Ren Hangyu , Wang Xintong , Liu Caixia , Du Beibei , Nanthakumar Kumaraswamy , Yang Ping
Published: November 2024

The Bruton’s Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, ibrutinib, has been widely employed due to its significant efficacy in B-cell lymphoma. However, the subsequent cardiac complications, notably atrial fibrillation (AF) and ventricular arrhythmias (VAs),associated with ibrutinib treatment have emerged as a major concern in cardio-oncology and hematology. Ibrutinib-induced AF has been well described, whereas mechanisms of ibrutinib-induced VAs are still under-investigation. The incidence of ibrutinib-induced VAs can vary vastly due to under-recognition and limitations of the retrospective studies. Recent investigations, including our previous work, have proposed several potential mechanisms contributing to this adverse event, necessitating further validation. The development of effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of ibrutinib-induced VAs still requires in-depth exploration. This review aims to establish a comprehensive framework encompassing the epidemiology, mechanistic insights, and clinical considerations related to ibrutinib-induced VAs. This article outlines potential strategies for the clinical management of patients undergoing ibrutinib therapy based on suggested mechanisms.
Drought stimulates root exudation of organic nitrogen in cotton (Gossypium hirsutem)
Authors: Coker Harrison R. , Lin Heng-An , Shackelford Caleb E. B. , Tfaily Malak M. , Smith A. Peyton , Howe Julie A.
Published: November 2024

Root exudation of N is a plant input to the soil environment and may be differentially regulated by the plant during drought. Organic N released by root systems has important implications in rhizosphere biogeochemical cycling considering the intimate coupling of C and N dynamics by microbial communities. Besides amino acids, diverse molecules exuded by root systems constitute a significant fraction of root exudate organic N but have yet to receive a metabolomic and quantitative investigation during drought. To observe root exudation of N during drought, mature cotton plants received progressive drought and recovery treatments in an aeroponic system throughout their reproductive stage and were compared to control plants receiving full irrigation. Root exudates were nondestructively sampled from the same plants at 9 timepoints over 18 days. Total organic C and N were quantified by combustion, inorganic N with spectrophotometric methods, free amino acids by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and untargeted metabolomics by Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance-mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS). Results indicate that organic N molecules in root exudates were by far the greatest component of root exudate total N, which accounted for 20-30% of root exudate mass. Drought increased root exudation of organic N (62%), organic C (6%), and free amino acid-N (562%), yet free amino acids were <5% of the N balance. Drought stress significantly increased root exudation of serine, aspartic acid, asparagine, glutamic acid, tryptophan, glutamine, phenylalanine, and lysine compared to the control. There was a total of 3,985 molecules detected across root exudate samples, of which 41% contained N in their molecular formula. There were additionally 349 N-containing molecules unique to drought treatment and 172 unique to control. Drought increased the relative abundance and redistributed the molecular weights of low molecular weight N-containing molecules. Time-series analysis revealed root exudation of organic N was stimulated by drought and was sensitive to the degree of drought stress.
Leaf nutrient traits exhibit greater environmental plasticity compared to resource utilization traits along an elevational gradient
Authors: Zhang Xing , Duan Jie , Ji Yuhui , Liu Weiguo , Gao Jie
Published: November 2024

Studying key leaf functional traits is crucial for understanding plant resource utilization strategies and growth. To explore the patterns and driving factors of key leaf functional traits in forests along elevational gradients under global change, we collected survey data from 697 forests across China from 2008 to 2020. This study examined the elevational patterns of Specific Leaf Area (SLA, m²/kg), Leaf Dry Matter Content (LDMC, g/g), Leaf Nitrogen (LN, mg/g), and Leaf Phosphorus (LP, mg/g), and their responses to climate, soil nutrients, and stand factors. The results showed distinct differences in these key leaf traits at different elevational gradients. Generally, as elevation increased, SLA decreased, while LDMC significantly increased (P < 0.001), and LN first increase and then decreased (P < 0.001). The direct influence of elevation on the spatial variation of key leaf traits was greater than its indirect effects (through environmental and stand factors). The elevational patterns of leaf traits related to resource utilization strategies (SLA and LDMC) were mainly influenced by climate (temperature and precipitation) and soil nutrient factors, showing opposite trends in response to environmental changes. The patterns of leaf nutrient traits (LN and LP) along elevational gradients were primarily influenced by climatic factors, with LN exhibiting greater environmental plasticity. Compared to other stand factors, forest age predominantly influenced the spatial variation of key leaf traits, especially SLA. These findings have significant theoretical implications for revealing how plants adapt to global change.
Humic substances increase tomato tolerance to osmotic stress while modulating vertically transmitted endophytic bacterial communities
Authors: Lengrand Salomé , Dubois Benjamin , Pesenti Lena , Debode Frederic , Legrève Anne
Published: November 2024

While humic substances (HS) are recognized for their role in enhancing plant growth under abiotic stress by modulating hormonal and redox metabolisms, a key question remains: how do HS influence the microbiota associated with plants? This study hypothesizes that the effects of HS extend beyond plant physiology, impacting the plant-associated bacterial community. To explore this, we investigated the combined and individual impacts of HS and osmotic stress on tomato plant physiology and root endophytic communities. Tomatoes were grown within a sterile hydroponic system, which allowed the experiment to focus on seed-transmitted endophytic bacteria. Moreover, sequencing the 16S-ITS-23S region of the rrn operon (~4,500 bp) in a metabarcoding assay using the PNA-chr11 clamp nearly eliminated the reads assigned to Solanum lycopersicum and allowed the species-level identification of these communities. Our findings revealed that HS, osmotic stress, and their combined application induce changes in bacterial endophytic communities. Osmotic stress led to reduced plant growth and a decrease in Bradyrhizobium sp., while the application of HS under osmotic stress resulted in increased tomato growth, accompanied by an increase in Frigoribacterium sp., Roseateles sp., and Hymenobacter sp., along with a decrease in Sphingomonas sp. Finally, HS application under non-stress conditions did not affect plant growth but did alter the endophytic community, increasing Hymenobacter sp. and decreasing Sphingomonas sp. This study enhances the understanding of plant–endophyte interactions under stress and HS application, highlighting the significance of the vertically transmitted core microbiome in tomato roots and suggesting new insights into the mode of action of HS that was used as a biostimulant.
The conserved active site aspartate residue is required for the function of the chloroplast atypical kinase ABC1K1
Authors: Turquand Maud , Justo Da Silva Ana Rita , Pralon Thibaut , Longoni Fiamma , Kessler Felix , Collombat Joy
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The Arabidopsis abc1k1/pgr6 (Activity of BC1 complex/proton regulation 6) mutant is characterized by photosynthetic and conditional developmental phenotypes triggered by stressful red as well as high light. The Arabidopsis ABC1-like kinases belong to the atypical kinase family and contain conserved ATP-binding and hydrolysis motifs, but their physiological requirement has never been investigated.

Methods

By mutation to asparagine, we demonstrate that the highly conserved active site aspartate residue within ATP-binding motif VIIb is required for the physiological functions of ABC1K1.

Results

Complementation of the abc1k1 knock out mutant with ABC1K1 D400N, failed to restore the wildtype phenotype.

Discussion

These results provide in vivo evidence for a critical role of the active site aspartate residue (D400) of ABC1K1.
Effects of public data open on performance of government functions in China: the roles of digital economy and market economic system adopting the perspective of resource- based view
Authors: Zhang Diandian , Mu Zijian , Tan Zhiqian
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The emergence of the digital economy necessitates effective government guidance and regulation of enterprise behavior to ensure fair market competition. Understanding how public data open can enhance the performance of government functions is crucial, particularly in understanding the roles of key factors like the development of the digital economy and the current state of the market economic system. This study explores the effects of public data open on performance of government functions from a resource-based perspective.

Methods

Using a dataset of 237 Chinese cities from 2017 to 2021, we employed a two-way fixed-effects model to investigate the mechanisms. This includes its interaction with the development of the digital economy and the moderating role of the market economic system.

Results

The findings reveal that public data open significantly improves performance of government functions, as validated by a multi-temporal DID model and various robustness checks. Notably, the development of the digital economy mediates this relationship, while the market economic system has a strong positive moderating effect. The effects of public data open on performance of government functions also exhibits significant variability.

Discussion

Recommendations include coordinating regional public data open resource planning and allocation, enhancing public data open rules and objectives by region, and promoting synergy between public data open, development of digital economy and the market economic system.
PsicoCare: a pilot randomized controlled trial testing a psychological intervention combining cognitive-behavioral treatment and positive psychology therapy in acute coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Magán Inés , Jurado-Barba Rosa , Moreno Guillermo , Ayán-Sanz María Paz , Izquierdo-Garcia Juan , Corradi Guido , Tello Rocio , Bueno Héctor
Published: November 2024

Background

Although psychological factors play a significant role in the onset and prognosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), psychological interventions (PIs) are rarely included in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs due to inconclusive evidence regarding specific intervention components and effect sizes. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a PI based on cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) and positive psychology therapy (PPT) in improving psychological and clinical outcomes in patients with ACS.

Methods

This PsicoCare trial was an open-label randomized controlled trial that compared a combined CBT and PPT-based PI (the PsicoCare program) with a standard CR program (control group). We recruited 87 ACS patients, and psychological outcomes, functional capacity, biochemical and anthropometric measures, and clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline, 2 months, and 9 months after the ACS event.

Results

The PsicoCare group showed significant improvements in depression, anger traits, anger-in, and anger control-out compared to the control group. Additionally, the PsicoCare intervention was associated with the improved maintenance of cognitive function, social support, and spiritual coping styles, while the control group showed deterioration in these areas. Patients experiencing severe ACS showed significant improvement in personal strength and meaning as a result of the PsicoCare intervention. However, no significant effects were observed on anxiety, anger-out, emotion regulation skills, dispositional optimism, other personal strengths, or quality of life. Both groups demonstrated similar improvements in functional capacity and clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

The study suggests that CBT and PPT-based PIs may offer additional benefits for ACS patients, particularly regarding their psychological health. Further larger trials are required to confirm these findings.

Clinical trial registration

identifier, NCT05287061.
The effects of a dual task on gaze behavior examined during a simulated flight in low-time pilots
Authors: Ayala Naila , Kearns Suzanne , Irving Elizabeth , Cao Shi , Niechwiej-Szwedo Ewa
Published: November 2024

Cognitive load can impair an operator’s ability to optimally scan and process relevant information that is critical to the safe and successful operation of an aircraft. Since the cognitive demands experienced by pilots fluctuate throughout a given flight due to changes in task demands that range from high to low cognitive load, it has become increasingly important to objectively track and quantify these changes accordingly. The analysis of eye movements has been shown to be a promising method to understand information acquisition, processing efficiency, and how these aspects of cognition impact pilot performance. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to assess the impact of a dual task paradigm on low-time pilot flight performance and gaze behavior during two phases of flight with varying levels of cognitive load. Twenty-two licensed pilots (<350 h) completed simulated flight circuits alongside an auditory oddball task under visual flight rules conditions. Self-reported situation awareness scores and auditory task performance revealed the dual task was more demanding than the single tasks. Flight performance and gaze behavior indicated that primary task performance and information processing remained unaffected. These results suggest that the recruited pilots attained a level of skill proficiency that enabled the efficient deployment of cognitive resources to successfully complete the flying task under states of increased cognitive load. Combined with previous research findings, the results suggest that the effect of secondary tasks depends on the type of tasks used (i.e., simple/choice response tasks, memory recall, etc.). The utility of using a dual task and gaze behavior to probe flight proficiency and information processing efficiency throughout training are discussed.
The therapeutic potential of low-intensity focused ultrasound for treating substance use disorder
Authors: Olaitan Greatness O. , Lynch Wendy J. , Venton B. Jill
Published: November 2024

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a persistent public health issue that necessitates the exploration of novel therapeutic interventions. Low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) is a promising modality for precise and invasive modulation of brain activity, capable of redefining the landscape of SUD treatment. The review overviews effective LIFU neuromodulatory parameters and molecular mechanisms, focusing on the modulation of reward pathways in key brain regions in animal and human models. Integration of LIFU with established therapeutics holds promise for augmenting treatment outcomes in SUD. The current research examines LIFU’s efficacy in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. LIFU shows promise for reducing cravings, modulating reward circuitry, and addressing interoceptive dysregulation and emotional distress. Selecting optimal parameters, encompassing frequency, burst patterns, and intensity, is pivotal for balancing therapeutic efficacy and safety. However, inconsistencies in empirical findings warrant further research on optimal treatment parameters, physiological action mechanisms, and long-term effects. Collaborative interdisciplinary investigations are imperative to fully realize LIFU’s potential in revolutionizing SUD treatment paradigms and enhancing patient outcomes.
Multilevel associations of peer cognitive factors and adolescent cannabis use in a legal recreational cannabis region
Authors: Kenyon Emily A. , Yang Manshu , Chung Tammy , Wilson Anna C. , Feldstein Ewing Sarah W.
Published: November 2024

Background

Cannabis use can have unintended, harmful consequences for adolescents, a developmental group that struggles with heightened pressure to align with peer attitudes and behaviors. The role of social-cognitive factors in shifting cannabis use dynamics remains under explored, particularly in states where recreational cannabis use is legal.

Objectives

The present study examined multilevel longitudinal associations between resistance to peer influence, peer norms, and adolescent cannabis use over the course of 12 months.

Method

Participants were N=204 adolescents ages 15-19 (Mage = 18.68; 67% female) recruited via community outreach after the legalization of adult (age 21+) recreational cannabis use in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan region. Eligible participants endorsed 1+ heavy episodic drinking (HED) episode in the prior two months. Data were collected across four timepoints over 12 months. Multilevel latent growth curve modeling investigated associations between time-varying cognitive factors (resistance to peer influence, peer norms) and two cannabis outcomes (hazardous use, past-month use).

Results

Findings showed individual increases in hazardous cannabis use over time were significantly associated with adolescents reporting higher peer norms (i.e., higher perceived prevalence and frequency of peer cannabis use) and lower resistance to peer influence. When assessing between-adolescent differences, hazardous cannabis use was only associated with peer norms. Individual variation over time and between-adolescent differences on past-month cannabis use was associated with peer norms, but not resistance to peer influence.

Conclusions

Evolving cognitive factors like resistance to peer influence and peer norms may enhance understanding of longitudinal changes in hazardous cannabis use among adolescents and implicate helpful targets for prevention and intervention. It is a public health priority to identify factors that contribute to adolescent use trajectories in this period of growing cannabis legislation in order to guide the development of impactful prevention and intervention strategies.
Facilitators of medication adherence in patients with hypertension: a qualitative study
Authors: Ghaderi Nasab Zahra , Sharifi Hamid , Mangolian Shahrbabaki Parvin
Published: November 2024

Hypertension has been identified as the most important risk factor for disability and premature death worldwide. This study aimed to explain the factors that facilitate medication adherence from the perspective of patients with hypertension in southeastern Iran. This qualitative study used conventional content analysis and purposive sampling methods to achieve data saturation, involving 25 participants. Facilitating factors were categorized into two main categories: individual and family factors and organizational support. Individual factors included motivational fears, disease acceptance, healthy lifestyle, disease monitoring, and follow-up. Family factors included family support, while organizational support included governmental support to provide inexpensive medicines, comprehensive healthcare team support, health insurance access, and media training. These factors were identified as essential facilitators that significantly influence appropriate adherence to hypertensive drugs. This study revealed that various factors affected medication adherence in these patients, and efforts should be made to improve hypertension treatment and increase medication adherence. Measures taken to control hypertension are cost-effective to reduce the burden associated with this disease. The findings of this study can be valuable in formulating policies for the treatment and care of hypertension.
Dual assurance for healthcare and future education development: normalized assistance for low-income population in rural areas—evidence from the population identification
Authors: Peng Xiaoyan , Zeng Yanzhao , Chen Yanrui , Wang Huaxing
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study aims to explore the relationship between healthcare and future education among the rural low-income population, using J City in Guangdong Province as the focal area. Addressing both healthcare and educational concerns, this research seeks to provide insights that can guide policy and support for this demographic.

Methods

Utilizing big data analysis and deep learning algorithms, a targeted intelligent identification classification model was developed to accurately detect and classify rural low-income individuals. Additionally, a questionnaire survey methodology was employed to separately investigate healthcare and future education dimensions among the identified population.

Results

The proposed model achieved a population identification accuracy of 91.93%, surpassing other baseline neural network algorithms by at least 2.65%. Survey results indicated low satisfaction levels in healthcare areas, including medical resource distribution, medication costs, and access to basic medical facilities, with satisfaction rates below 50%. Regarding future education, issues such as tuition burdens, educational opportunity disparities, and accessibility challenges highlighted the concerns of rural low-income families.

Discussion

The high accuracy of the model demonstrates its potential for precise identification and classification of low-income populations. Insights derived from healthcare and education surveys reveal systemic issues affecting satisfaction and accessibility. This research thus provides a valuable foundation for future studies and policy development targeting rural low-income populations in healthcare and education.
The reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and deliberate self-harm among Chinese rural adolescents: a cross-lagged panel analysis
Authors: Liu Qijiao , Xu Xiaohe , Jiang Jianjun , Peng Wei , Ji Yuanyi , Yang Ruixi , Zhang Ming , Li Shiying , Li Yuchen , Liu Qiaolan
Published: November 2024

Background

While the association between depressive symptoms and deliberate self-harm in adolescence is extensively documented, the nature, bi-directionality, and longitudinal dynamics of this relationship remain underexplored. This study aims to investigate the causal and reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and deliberate self-harm among rural adolescents in western China.

Methods

A 2-year panel study was conducted among 1,840 adolescents aged 10–18 attending rural junior and senior high schools in Sichuan Province, China. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D) and a global measure of self-reported deliberate self-harm were utilized to examine the relationship between depressive symptoms and deliberate self-harm using both classic and random intercept cross-lagged panel models. Multi-group comparisons were carried out for the gender, pubertal stage, and academic performance subgroups.

Results

Positive and statistically significant correlations were found between depressive symptoms and deliberate self-harm both within and across the three waves of the panel survey, after adjusting for covariates, among rural adolescents in western China (Range: 0.05–0.28, p < 0.05). As anticipated, depressive symptoms positively predicted later deliberate self-harm, which in turn reciprocally predicted subsequent depressive symptoms, both between and within individuals. While the cross-lagged effects were invariant by gender and academic performance, the effect of baseline depressive symptoms on later deliberate self-harm was stronger for adolescents in the early pubertal stage (β = 0.19, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.08 to 0.30) than for those in the middle-to-late pubertal stage (β = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.19).

Conclusion

There is a causal and reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and deliberate self-harm among rural adolescents in China. Not only does this finding lend further credence to a growing body of research on adolescents’ self-harming behaviors but also informs early intervention strategies aimed at improving behavioral health of rural adolescents in western China.
Evaluation of wastewater surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 in a prison population: a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Jones Gethin , Nelson Andrew , Chadwick David R. , Cobley Steve , Jones Davey L. , Perrett Stephanie , Perry William Bernard , Weightman Andrew J. , Williams Rachel C. , Thomas Daniel Rhys
Published: November 2024

Background

Prisons are high-risk settings for the transmission of communicable disease. Robust surveillance systems are required to identify and control outbreaks. Wastewater surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 was introduced in four prisons in Wales in March 2022. We investigated its contribution to the COVID-19 surveillance programme.

Methods

We evaluated prison wastewater surveillance against eight system attributes using a mixed-methods approach. Semi-structured interviews were completed with key stakeholders to assess usefulness, flexibility and acceptability. Quantitative analyses were completed to assess data quality, sensitivity, positive-predictive value, representativeness and timeliness. To assess sensitivity of the system to detect changes in incidence we carried out a time-series analysis comparing levels of virus in wastewater with trends in confirmed COVID-19 cases from clinical surveillance.

Results

Interviews with stakeholders indicated that wastewater surveillance is a useful adjunct to existing case-based surveillance. However, it had limited influence on action taken within the prison, often lagging behind existing surveillance and not specific enough to target interventions. The novelty of wastewater surveillance meant stakeholders lacked confidence in interpreting the data. Despite these limitations, wastewater surveillance detected changes in SARS-CoV-2 activity in Welsh prison populations which corroborated trends in case surveillance.

Conclusion

Prison wastewater surveillance, implemented in Wales for a period during the COVID-19 pandemic, was useful and should be considered as part of a wider surveillance programme in response to future SARS-CoV-2 waves, or in response to future pandemics. It is particularly beneficial in the absence of comprehensive clinical testing. We identified several limitations to address should this surveillance be re-started.
Knowledge, attitude, practice and associated factors about voluntary blood donation among regular undergraduate students of Wachemo University, Southcentral Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mussema Abdulhakim , Nigussie Bethelhem , Anmaw Biruk , Abera Habtamu , Nageso Habib , Gebre Bawore Solomon , Shemsu Amina , Woldesenbet Dagmawi , Mohammed Kemal , Seid Abdurezak Mohammed , Admasu Dawit
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Human blood plays a crucial role in transporting metabolic waste and essential minerals, including oxygen, to cells. Blood transfusions are a critical intervention in various situations such as trauma, inherited bleeding disorders, childbirth, and numerous medical and surgical procedures, often being the only means to prevent death. A significant challenge, particularly in developing nations, is maintaining a sufficient supply of safe blood. An individual’s mindset, beliefs, and familiarity with blood donation significantly affect their willingness to donate. This research aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and related factors concerning voluntary blood donation among undergraduate regular students at Wachemo University in Southcentral Ethiopia.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 19 to November 10, 2023, using a stratified random sampling method to select participants. Data were gathered through self-administered structured and semi-structured questionnaires. The responses regarding knowledge, attitudes, and practices were analyzed using SPSS version 24 and presented through text, figures, and tables.

Result

A total of 393 respondents participated in the study (97.76% response rate), comprising 59% males and 41% females. Of the participants, 77.6% demonstrated adequate knowledge, 79.6% exhibited positive attitudes, while only 19.3% had engaged in blood donation. Factors influencing these outcomes included knowledge, previous residence, and college background. Reluctance to donate blood was primarily linked to fear and concerns about time constraint.

Conclusion and recommendations

The findings indicate that while a majority of students possess good knowledge (77.6%) and favorable attitudes (79.6%) toward blood donation, only a small fraction (19.3%) actively participates in the practice. It is recommended that the institution collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address the factors affecting voluntary blood donation among students. In addition, incorporating topics on blood donation and its significance into the university curriculum can foster a culture of generosity among students. This strategy is essential for improving blood donation rates in this region.