bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acupoint catgut embedding alleviates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by modulating neuroinflammation and potentially inhibiting glia activation through JNK and ERK pathways
Authors: Liu Xiaofang , Yang Liansheng , Su Zhumin , Ma Xueying , Liu Yingying , Ma Lili , Ma Xiaomeng , Ma Mingxia , Liu Xiaoyun , Zhang Kun , Chen Xiaohong
Published: January 2025

Background

Acupoint catgut embedding (ACE) is a traditional Chinese medicine technique commonly used for managing various disorders, including chronic inflammatory pain and allergic asthma. Despite its growing use, the neuroimmunological mechanisms underlying ACE treatment effects remain unclear.

Methods

This study investigated the roles and potential mechanisms of the effects of ACE in treating experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a frequently used animal model of autoimmune neuroinflammation. The effects of ACE treatment were evaluated by monitoring body weight and EAE severity scores. Behavioral tests, histopathological analysis, ELISA, and flow cytometry were conducted to assess the therapeutic efficacy of ACE. RNA sequencing was performed to uncover ACE-associated transcriptional signatures in the spinal cords of EAE mice.

Results

The results were validated through western blotting, qRT-PCR, and immunofluorescence (IF) staining. In ACE-treated mice, EAE disease severity was significantly ameliorated, along with improvements in anxiety-like behaviors and reduced inflammation and demyelination. The ACE treatment restored immune imbalance in the EAE mice by decreasing Th17 and Th1 cells, while increasing Treg cells in peripheral immune organs and reducing serum inflammatory cytokine levels. RNA sequencing revealed significant suppression of the genes and pathways associated with reactive microglial and astrocytic activation, corroborated by IF studies. Additionally, ACE treatment could suppress the ERK and JNK signaling pathways at both RNA and protein levels.

Conclusion

These findings confirm the protective role of ACE in mitigating EAE symptoms by modulating microglial and astrocytic activity and regulating inflammatory cytokines.
Efficacy and safety of immunotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Jiang Cailing , Wang Shuqin , Zhu Lijun
Published: January 2025

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown favorable therapeutic effects in recurrent or metastatic or locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M/LA HNSCC). However, the effects of immunotherapy in HNSCC are still inconsistent because of complicating factors. This meta-analysis tries to provide a more precise assessment of the efficacy and safety of this integrated approach in HNSCC.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. The outcomes were overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs). A total of 8 out of 2445 articles were analyzed, including 5067 HNSCC patients, including 823 and 4244 patients with LA HNSCC and R/M HNSCC.

Results

The combined data revealed that immunotherapy has an apparent difference in OS (HR 0.86 95% CI 0.77-0.98) compared with standard of care (Soc, like fluoropyrimidine, methotrexate, docetaxel, or cetuximab) but was equal with the other treatment in PFS (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.85-1.37). Furthermore, the occurrence of grade 3 or higher adverse events related to the drugs was lower than systematic therapy (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.17-0.73).

Conclusions

The study has provided compelling evidence that immunotherapy is a significant benefit in OS for HNSCC patients, either R/M HNSCC or LA HNSCC, immunochemotherapy may benefit more for these patients, but double-agent immunotherapy showed no more benefit for R/M HNSCC patients.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, identifier CRD42023471570.
Repurposing the prostaglandin analogue treprostinil and the calcium-sensing receptor modulator cinacalcet to revive cord blood as an alternate source of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells for transplantation
Authors: Prchal-Murphy Michaela , Zehenter Julia , Fischer Marlene , Pirabe Anita , Themanns Madeleine , Afrashteh Behnaz , Putz Eva Maria , Kollmann Karoline , Basílio José , Salzmann Manuel , Strohmaier Wolfgang , Krumpl Günther , Farr Alex , Sexl Veronika , Freissmuth Michael , Zebedin-Brandl Eva
Published: January 2025

Objective

The expanding field of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for non-malignant diseases, including those amenable to gene therapy or gene editing, faces challenges due to limited donor availability and the toxicity associated with cell collection methods. Umbilical cord blood (CB) represents a readily accessible source of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs); however, the cell dose obtainable from a single cord blood unit is frequently insufficient. This limitation can be addressed by enhancing the potency of HSPCs, specifically their capacity to reconstitute hematopoiesis. In our study, we investigated the combined effects of treprostinil, a prostaglandin analog, and cinacalcet, a calcium-sensing receptor modulator, on the reconstitution of hematopoiesis.

Methods

A Lineage Cell Depletion Kit was employed to isolate lineage-negative (lin−) HSPCs from mouse bone marrow. A Human CB CD34 Positive Selection Kit was utilized to isolate CD34+ cells from the CB of healthy donors. In vitro, the effects of treprostinil, cinacalcet, and their combination on the migration, adhesion, and differentiation of HSPCs were assessed. In vivo, homing and engraftment were examined. Eight-week-old female and male C57BL/6J, BALB/c, or female NSG mice served as recipient models.

Results

When administered concomitantly, treprostinil and cinacalcet exhibited mutual antagonism: the survival of recipient animals was lower when both drugs were administered together compared to either agent alone. Conversely, a sequential regimen involving priming with treprostinil/forskolin followed by cinacalcet treatment in vivo enhanced survival, irrespective of whether hematopoiesis was reconstituted by human or murine HSPCs. In vitro assays demonstrated enhanced migration and adhesion in response to the presence of treprostinil and cinacalcet, suggesting potential synergistic effects. Colony formation confirmed synergism.

Conclusion

Augmenting the bone marrow reconstitution potential of HSPCs with treprostinil and cinacalcet shows promise for rescuing patients undergoing HCT. This approach is particularly beneficial for those patients at high risk of transplant failure due to limited numbers of available HSPCs. Furthermore, enhancing the potency of HSPCs has the potential to alleviate the burden and risks associated with HSPC donation, as it would reduce the number of cells needed for collection.
Multi-omics approaches to deciphering complex pathological mechanisms of migraine: a systematic review
Authors: Liu Jiaojiao , Ren Qiaosheng , Du Boxuan , Liu Xian , An Yuqiu , Zhang Peichi , Li Lexi , Liu Zhenhong , Cao Kegang
Published: January 2025

Background

Migraine represents a chronic neurological disorder characterized by high prevalence, substantial disability rates, and significant economic burden. Its pathogenesis is complex, and there is currently no cure. The rapid progress in multi-omics technologies has provided new tools to uncover the intricate pathological mechanisms underlying migraine. This systematic review aims to synthesize the findings of multi-omics studies on migraine to further elucidate the complex mechanisms of disease onset, thereby laying a scientific foundation for identifying new therapeutic targets.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive systematic review, specifically focusing on clinical observational studies that investigate various aspects of migraine through the integration of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Our search encompassed multiple databases including PubMed, EMBASE, the Web of Science Core Collection, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database, the Wanfang database, and the China Biology Medicine Database to cover studies from database inception until 20 March 2024., The scope of our review included various aspects of migraine such as ictal and interictal phases; episodic or chronic migraine; menstrual-related migraine; and migraine with or without aura (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024470268).

Results

A total of 38 studies were ultimately included, highlighting a range of genetic variations, transcriptional abnormalities, protein function alterations, and disruptions in metabolic pathways associated with migraine.These multi-omics findings underscore the pivotal roles played by mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of migraine.

Conclusion

Multi-omics approaches provide novel perspectives and tools for comprehending the intricate pathophysiology of migraine, facilitating the identification of potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=470268, identifier CRD42024470268.
Safety assessment of tolvaptan: real-world adverse event analysis using the FAERS database
Authors: Cao Peiyang , Wang Qian , Wang Yan , Qiao Qing , Yan Liyuan
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to analyze the adverse drug events (ADEs) associated with tolvaptan in the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database from the fourth quarter of 2009 to the second quarter of 2024.

Methods

After standardizing the data, various signal detection techniques, including Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network, and Multi-Item Gamma Poisson Shrinker, were employed for analysis.

Results

Among the 7,486 ADE reports where tolvaptan was the primary suspected drug, a total of 196 preferred terms were identified, spanning 24 different system organ classes. Specifically, hepatobiliary disorders, renal and urinary disorders, and metabolic and nutritional disorders were found to be characteristic adverse reactions associated with tolvaptan. Additionally, uncommon but notable ADE signals were observed, such as renal cyst rupture, renal cyst infection, polycystic liver disease, and renal cyst hemorrhage. These several ADEs have not been referred to in the previous literature. Notably, strong ADE signals were detected for decreased urine osmolality [n = 5, ROR 149.74, PRR 149.7, IC (Information Component) 7.13, EBGM (Empirical Bayes Geometric Mean) 139.79], osmotic demyelination syndrome (n = 38, ROR 128.47, PRR 128.25, IC 6.92, EBGM 120.91), and pulmonary-related tumors such as bronchial metastatic carcinoma, bronchial carcinoma, metastatic small cell lung carcinoma, and small cell lung carcinoma. In the concomitant medication analysis of 7,486 suspected adverse drug reaction reports related to tolvaptan, the top three drugs most commonly used in combination with tolvaptan were furosemide, spironolactone, and amlodipine.

Conclusion

While tolvaptan provides therapeutic benefits, it poses a risk of significant adverse reactions. Clinicians should closely monitor the occurrence of events related to hepatobiliary disorders, renal and urinary disorders, metabolic and nutritional disorders, as well as benign, malignant, and indeterminate tumors during its clinical use.
Balancing act: optimizing blue light for melanogenesis while minimizing cellular damage in primary human skin cells
Authors: Barolet Augustin C. , Magne Brice , Ferland Karel , Uzunbajakava Natallia E. , Barolet Daniel , Germain Lucie
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Recent findings show that visible light, particularly blue light, stimulates melanogenesis in human skin, though the underlying mechanisms remain debated. This study aimed to determine the cell damage threshold of non-ionizing blue light on keratinocytes while preserving their ability to stimulate melanogenesis.

Methods

Human keratinocytes (N = 3) and melanocytes (N = 3) were isolated from skin samples of varying Fitzpatrick skin phototypes and irradiated with blue light (λpeak = 457 nm) and UVA light (λpeak = 385 nm). Cellular metabolic activity was assessed using the AlamarBlue HS assay, α-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH) production by keratinocytes was quantified using ELISA, and Western blotting was used to assess pro-melanogenic factor expression in melanocytes.

Results

High blue light intensity (50 mW/cm2, 50 J/cm2) and UVA light (15 mW/cm2, 20 J/cm2) significantly reduced cellular metabolic activity, with a 0.86 ± 0.055 and 0.60 ± 0.031 (mean ± SD) fold decrease compared to their respective sham by day 7. In contrast, moderate blue light intensities (5–15 mW/cm2, 10–20 J/cm2) preserved cellular metabolic activity while stimulating α-MSH production, with an optimal balance achieved at 10 mW/cm2, 15 J/cm2 (1.14 ± 0.046 fold increase relative to sham on day 7). Co-culture experiments confirmed that irradiated keratinocytes enhanced melanogenesis in melanocytes via paracrine signaling, increasing the expression of Tyrosinase and Dopachrome Tautomerase (DCT). Direct blue light irradiation on melanocytes also increased pigmentation without significant cellular damage.

Discussion

Moderate-intensity blue light at 10 mW/cm2, 15 J/cm2 effectively stimulates melanogenesis while maintaining cellular metabolic activity in both keratinocytes and melanocytes, offering a promising, safe approach for blue light therapies targeting pigmentation disorders.
Integrated systems improve soil microclimate, soybean photosynthesis and growth
Authors: da Silva Luciana Maria , Habermann Eduardo , Costa Kátia Aparecida de Pinho , Costa Adriano Carvalho , Silva João Antônio Gonçalves e , Severiano Eduardo da Costa , Vilela Lourival , Silva Fabiano Guimarães , da Silva Alessandro Guerra , Marques Bruno de Souza , Rodrigues Fabrício , Martinez Carlos Alberto
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to compare the conventional soybean (Glycine max L.) cultivation method with integrated systems in an Latossolo Vermelho Acriférrico típico and how these systems affect soil cover biomass production, initial nutrient concentration in plant residues, soil respiration and microclimate, as well as soybean growth, physiology and productivity. A comparative analysis of microclimate and soil respiration, plant physiology, and growth was conducted between a conventional soybean monoculture (soybean grown without plant residues on the soil from the previous crop) and soybean grown in soil containing maize residues. Additionally, experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of monocultures and previous integration between maize, three cultivars of Panicum maximum (Zuri, Tamani, and Quênia guinea grass) and Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan cv. BRS Mandarim) on soil health, physiological aspects, and soybean production. Our results indicated that all cultivars of Panicum maximum can be used in integrated systems. The triple consortium resulted in greater production of ground cover biomass and a higher concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur, which contributed to lower soil temperature and greater humidity, without a concomitant increase in soil respiration. Consequently, soybeans grown in the resulting integrated systems cover biomass showed a higher net photosynthesis rate and increased leaf chlorophyll index, resulting in taller plants, with higher above-ground biomass production and 21.0% and a 36.8% increase in grain yield when compared to soybean cultivated on maize biomass and on soil without cover residue, respectively. The data presented in this study demonstrated that integrated systems, with the presence of grasses and legumes, improve soil climatic conditions and nutrient availability, enhancing soybean physiology and productivity characteristics, thus contributing to the sustainability of agricultural production, even in the short term. Further long-term research is strongly recommended.
Development of a vegetation canopy reflectance sensor and its diurnal applicability under clear sky conditions
Authors: Liu Naisen , Guo Jingyu , Liu Fuxia , Zha Xuedong , Cao Jing , Chen Yuezhen , Yan Haixia , Du Chenggong , Wang Xuqi , Li Jiping , Zhao Yongzhen
Published: January 2025

The spectral reflectance provides valuable information regarding vegetation growth and plays an important role in agriculture, forestry, and grassland management. In this study, a small, portable vegetation canopy reflectance (VCR) sensor that can operate throughout the day was developed. The sensor includes two optical bands at 710 nm and 870 nm, with the light separated by filters, and has a field of view of 28°. It is powered by two 14500 rechargeable batteries and uses Wi-Fi for data transmission. The calibration of the sensor was performed using an integrating sphere, and a solar altitude correction model was constructed. The sensor’s accuracy was validated using a standard reflectance gray scale board. The results indicate that the root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) at 710 nm were 1.07% and 0.63%, respectively, while those at 870 nm were 0.94% and 0.50%, respectively. Vegetation at 14 sites was measured using both the VCR sensor and an Analytical Spectral Devices (ASD) spectroradiometer at nearly the same time for each site. The results show that the reflectance values measured by both devices were closely aligned. Measurements of Bermuda grass vegetation on clear days revealed that the intra-day reflectance range at 710 nm narrowed from 12.3–19.2% before solar altitude correction to 11.1–13.4% after correction, and the coefficient of variation (CV) decreased from 10.86% to 2.93%. Similarly, at 870 nm, the intra-day reflectance range decreased from 41.6–60.3% to 39.0–42.0%, and the CV decreased from 9.69% to 1.53%. In summary, this study offers a fundamental tool for monitoring vegetation canopy reflectance in the field, which is crucial for advancing high-quality agricultural, grassland, and forest management practices.
Prediction of the potentially suitable areas of Paeonia lactiflora in China based on Maxent and Marxan models
Authors: Wang Yongji , Huo Wentao , Wu Kefan , Cao Jiaying , Zhao Guanghua , Zhang Fenguo
Published: January 2025

Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (P. lactiflora) is an important medicinal plant in China with high ornamental value. Predicting the potential habitat of P. lactiflora is crucial for identifying its geographic distribution characteristics and ensuring its ecological and economic importance. Therefore, we aimed to predict the potential geographic distribution of P. lactiflora in China under future climate change scenarios. To this end, we used an optimized Maxent model and ArcGIS software to analyze the influence of 12 environmental variables on P. lactiflora potential distribution in China based on 291 effective distribution records. The key factors limiting the potential geographic distribution of P. lactiflora were evaluated by combining the contribution rates of the environmental variables with the significance of their replacement. The jackknife method was employed to assess the importance of these factors. Response curves were used to determine the appropriate intervals for the environmental factor variables and to analyze the changes in spatial patterns. The Maxent model exhibited a low degree of overfitting and good prediction accuracy. The main variables influencing P. lactiflora distribution were precipitation in the wettest month and hottest quarter, lowest temperature in the coldest month, and highest temperature in the warmest month. Under current climatic conditions, P. lactiflora could theoretically grow across and area of 231.1 × 104 km2 in China. Under the six future climate change scenarios, the potential geographic distribution area was reduced compared with the current distribution area, and the potentially suitable areas shifted southwestward. The majority of priority conservation sites for P. lactiflora are located in northern and northeastern China, which align with the highly favorable areas predicted by the Maxent model. The findings of this investigation can guide the selection of future introductions as well as artificial cultivation and preservation of P. lactiflora resources.
Perezhivanie as a source of children’s development: case of emotional development intervention through visual arts
Authors: Gavrilova Margarita , Kornienko Dmitry
Published: January 2025

Recent theoretical ideas emphasise the non-direct environmental influences on child development. Environmental factors affect child development by the principle of refraction rather than by the principle of reflection: any environmental condition is refracted in a child’s mind in unique ways depending on his or her actual abilities and personal attitude to the situation. Complexity and multidimensionality of the relationship between environment and psychological prosseses poses a great challenge to the researchers. This paper provides a theoretical analysis and justification of the prospective use of the concept of ‘perezhivanie’, as a tool for theoretical analyses of child development and a practical phenomenon that allows to explore how a child interprets and emotionally relates to certain events or moments in the environment. Perezhivanie is considered as the unit of analysis of consciousness in cultural-historical theory. A case study of an intervention in emotional development through visual arts is presented as an illustration of using the concept of ‘perezhivanie’ to design practical sessions with children and to analyse the way in which their minds work in learning processes. The findings suggest that the study of perezhivanie for theoretical and practical purposes is promising, as this phenomenon can provide rich data on how a child interprets and relates to a particular event or moment in the environment.
Association of parental rearing styles with suicidal ideation in Chinese adolescent patients with depression: a large-scale cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Jiacheng , Cheng Chang , Edeleva Kamila , Zhao Zhen , Yang Liying , Kang Chuanyi , Wang Xiaohong , Zhao Na , Hu Jian
Published: January 2025

Background

Suicide is the first cause of death among adolescents globally and has a severe impact on socioeconomic development. Several studies have found that suicide attempts and suicidal ideation (SI) are more likely to occur in adolescents with depression. Previous studies have found that stressful events in early childhood, especially family stress, can influence the occurrence of SI. Chinese parents tend to be more strict and less able to express their emotions, owing to unique national conditions, which may result in more parenting problems. Therefore, our study investigates the risk factors for SI in a large sample of Chinese adolescents with depression.

Methods

A total of 1604 adolescent patients with depression were recruited in this study. A self-administered questionnaire collected the clinical and demographic data. SI was assessed by interview. The Egna Minnen Beträffande Uppfostran (EMBU) scale was used to evaluate parental rearing style.

Results

The study showed that female (OR=1.886, 95%CI:1.502–2.368), sleep (OR=0.798, 95%CI:0.637–0.998), school management (OR=1.179, 95%CI:1.041–1.336), alcohol consumption (OR=1.798, 95%CI:1.304–2.479), child life (OR=1.797, 95%CI:1.457–2.216), maternal interference (OR=1.032, 95%CI:1.015–1.048), paternal emotional warmth (OR=0.975, 95%CI:0.966–0.983) and paternal rejection (OR=1.102, 95%CI:1.063–1.142) were significantly associated with SI.

Conclusions

To recognize SI earlier, physicians and nurses need to pay more attention to those female adolescent depression populations that are experiencing an unhappy childhood, non-democratic school management, alcohol consumption, excessive maternal interference, lack of paternal emotional warmth, and paternal rejection.
Profile and development of adaptive behavior in adults with autism spectrum disorder and severe intellectual disability
Authors: Adrien Jean-Louis , Blanc Romuald , Thiébaut Eric
Published: January 2025

Background

This study examined the profiles of adaptive behavior development in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and severe intellectual disability (ID), and the relationships between the levels of the different domains and subdomains of adaptive development and the intensity of autistic symptomatology.

Participants

This study involved 71 adults (44 men and 27 women with average ages of 39 years 7 months and 36 years 2 months, respectively) living in medico-social institutions and having a level of adaptive development corresponding to age below 3 years 4 months and a level of cognitive development corresponding to ages between 12 and 24 months.

Methods

ASD was diagnosed using Pervasive Development Disorder-Mental Retardation Scale (PDD-MRS) and Childhood Autistic Rating Scale (CARS), ID and its severity were determined based on the Diagnostic Statistical Manual-5 (DSM-5) criteria, and the very low cognitive developmental level was assessed using the Socio-emotional Cognitive Evaluation Battery (Adrien, Pearson-ECPA, 2007), adapted for adults (SCEB-A). Adaptive development was assessed using the Vineland-II tool.

Results

The adaptive developmental profile was heterogeneous: the median levels of the three domains of socio-adaptive development differed significantly from each other, and the domain of Daily Living was the most developed. Among the nine subdomains, the weakest developmental levels corresponded to Expressive Language, Interpersonal Relationships, and Play/Leisure. By contrast, the highest levels corresponded to Writing and Personal and Domestic Autonomy. Significant and negative relationships were noted between the intensity of autism severity and the levels of development in Communication and Daily Living but not Socialization. These results are discussed to highlight the best-developed adaptive domains and those to be improved.
Automated classification of stress and relaxation responses in major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and healthy participants via heart rate variability
Authors: Byun Sangwon , Kim Ah Young , Shin Min-Sup , Jeon Hong Jin , Cho Chul-Hyun
Published: January 2025

Background

Stress is a significant risk factor for psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD) and panic disorder (PD). This highlights the need for advanced stress-monitoring technologies to improve treatment. Stress affects the autonomic nervous system, which can be evaluated via heart rate variability (HRV). While machine learning has enabled automated stress detection via HRV in healthy individuals, its application in psychiatric patients remains underexplored. This study evaluated the feasibility of using machine-learning algorithms to detect stress automatically in MDD and PD patients, as well as healthy controls (HCs), based on HRV features.

Methods

The study included 147 participants (MDD: 41, PD: 47, HC: 59) who visited the laboratory up to five times over 12 weeks. HRV data were collected during stress and relaxation tasks, with 20 HRV features extracted. Random forest and multilayer perceptron classifiers were applied to distinguish between the stress and relaxation tasks. Feature importance was analyzed using SHapley Additive exPlanations, and differences in HRV between the tasks (ΔHRV) were compared across groups. The impact of personalized longitudinal scaling on classification accuracy was also assessed.

Results

Random forest classification accuracies were 0.67 for MDD, 0.69 for PD, and 0.73 for HCs, indicating higher accuracy in the HC group. Longitudinal scaling improved accuracies to 0.94 for MDD, 0.90 for PD, and 0.96 for HCs, suggesting its potential in monitoring patients’ conditions using HRV. The HC group demonstrated greater ΔHRV fluctuation in a larger number of and more significant features than the patient groups, potentially contributing to higher accuracy. Multilayer perceptron models provided consistent results with random forest, confirming the robustness of the findings.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that differentiating between stress and relaxation was more challenging in the PD and MDD groups than in the HC group, underscoring the potential of HRV metrics as stress biomarkers. Psychiatric patients exhibited altered autonomic responses, which may influence their stress reactivity. This indicates the need for a tailored approach to stress monitoring in these patient groups. Additionally, we emphasized the significance of longitudinal scaling in enhancing classification accuracy, which can be utilized to develop personalized monitoring technologies for psychiatric patients.
From air to mind: unraveling the impact of indoor pollutants on psychiatric disorders
Authors: Torres German , Subbaiah Ryia T. , Sood Riya A. , Leheste Joerg R.
Published: January 2025

Epidemiological evidence from the past 20 years indicates that environmental chemicals brought into the air by the vaporization of volatile organic compounds and other anthropogenic pollutants might be involved, at least in part, in the development or progression of psychiatric disorders. This evidence comes primarily from occupational work studies in humans, with indoor occupations being the most important sources of airborne pollutants affecting neural circuits implicated in mood disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder). The current mini review brings together recent findings of indoor airborne pollution from different fields of research, including genetics, neuropathology, and neuroimaging, for gauging underlying physiological mechanisms leading to emotional disturbances that impact nearly all aspects of human behavior. A better understanding of how indoor airborne pollutants affect brain neurons to augment clinical symptoms associated with psychiatric disorders will undoubtedly be useful in the subsequent treatment of patients with major depressive and/or bipolar disorders. This article is part of the themed issue, “Understanding the Link Between Environmental Pollutants, Brain & Behavior.”
A health security-based framework for prioritizing regions for digital learning in complex health emergencies
Authors: D’Andrea Shawn M. , Fadul Nada , Struminger Bruce
Published: January 2025

Digital health and learning have expanded significantly in recent decades though their use in settings of acute health emergencies has only recently begun. Growing experience among organizations working in the digital health and learning space suggest that virtual communities of practice in these areas may have value in response to health emergencies. Evaluation of recent virtual programs applied in acute health emergencies suggest that a pre-established digital learning network can serve as a valuable resource when an acute health emergency strikes. This paper introduces the concept, and explores the potential value of developing a prioritization framework, informed by health security assessments, to identify countries most vulnerable to future health crises. By using an anticipatory approach and framework to identify high risk regions, digital learning programs can be developed proactively, building networks that can be activated during emergencies. Creating and prioritizing virtual learning networks in regions at high risk of health emergencies can improve response capacities. Developing a framework to identify countries and regions of greatest risk can help policy makers, educators, and donors, focus limited resources on high need areas.
Health literacy status and associated factors among residents in Anhui Province, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fu Yuansheng , Xie Jianrong , Xu De , Xia Yuanrui , Wang Zhimin , Fan Yinguang
Published: January 2025

Background

Health literacy (HL) is a critical determinant of health outcomes. Improving HL stands as one of the most essential, cost-effective, and efficacious strategies for enhancing the overall health of the population. This study aims to analyze the status of HL among urban and rural residents in Anhui Province, explore the associated factors, and provide a scientific basis for the formulation of targeted health education and promotion strategies.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 16,080 non-collective residents in Anhui Province from July to September 2022. Participants were selected using a multi-stage stratified random sampling method. HL was measured using the Chinese Citizen Health Literacy Questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with adequate HL.

Results

Overall, 29.60% of residents in Anhui Province had adequate HL. The proportion of adequate HL in the different cities ranged from 22.42 to 38.73%. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the proportion of individuals with adequate HL was higher for males than for females (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.200; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.086–1.326); married was higher than unmarried (aOR = 1.195, 95% CI: 1.021–1.398). Compared with illiterate/less literate, the aOR values for primary school, junior high school, senior high school, and college or above were 1.690 (1.326–2.155), 3.467 (2.760–4.356), 7.033 (5.516–8.968), and 17.895 (13.948–22.959), respectively; compared with the age group of 65–69 years, the aOR values for the age groups 15–24, 25–34, 35–44, 45–54 and 55–64 years were 2.384 (1.774–3.202), 2.598 (2.049–3.294), 2.862 (2.267–3.615), 2.135 (1.697–2.685), and 1.468 (1.157–1.863), respectively; compared with farmers, the aOR values were 1.244 (95% CI, 1.081–1.432) for technical/professional, 1.121 (95% CI, 1.003–1.254) for commercial/service, and 1.329 (95% CI, 1.163–1.518) for other occupations.

Conclusion

Residents of Anhui Province exhibit relatively low levels of HL, with notable disparities observed among different education levels, age groups, genders, and marital statuses. It is essential for health policymakers and public health practitioners to develop targeted health education and promotion strategies tailored to distinct subpopulations of residents.
The economic burden of atopic dermatitis in Romania: a broad perspective
Authors: Nicolescu Alin Codruț , Strilciuc Stefan , Lăpădatu Rozalina , Grad Diana-Alecsandra , Vlădescu Cristian , Olteanu Rodica
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a common dermatological condition, is often associated with significant economic and social burdens. Despite extensive studies globally, there is a gap in understanding the impact of this condition in Romania. This study evaluated the economic burden of AD in Romania, considering both direct and indirect costs.

Materials and methods

A cost of illness study, conducted from a broad perspective, considering 2022 as a reference, using top-down and bottom-up approaches and retrospective and prospective data sources was used to assess direct medical costs (treatments, medical services, hospitalizations), direct non-medical costs (associated costs due to transportation, accommodation), and indirect costs (productivity losses) across four costing scenarios.

Results

In 2022, the total cost of atopic dermatitis in Romania was €29,810,077.2 for adult patients and €133,635,535.2 for pediatric patients, based on a prevalence-based approach, and €5,529,867.8 for adults and €53,175,049.1 for pediatric AD patients when using an incidence-based approach. Medical costs had the highest attributable share of the AD cost for adult patients while productivity costs (inquired by caregivers) had the highest share for pediatric AD patients in both approaches. The overall average annual cost per patient ranged, depending on the scenarios, between €284.72 and €1,045 for adult AD patients and between €293.73 and €9,558.52 for pediatric AD patients.

Discussion

Our results show the increased burden among pediatric AD patients emphasizing the need that future policy interventions should be tailored according the patients’ age.
Periodontal pathogens and obesity in the context of cardiovascular risks across age groups
Authors: Leonov Georgy , Varaeva Yurgita , Livantsova Elena , Vasilyev Andrey , Vladimirskaya Olga , Korotkova Tatyana , Nikityuk Dmitry , Starodubova Antonina
Published: January 2025

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity among noncommunicable diseases. Over the past decade, there has been a notable increase in the prevalence of CVDs among young individuals. Obesity, a well-known risk factor for CVDs, is also associated with various comorbidities that may contribute to cardiovascular risk. The relationship between periodontal pathogens and CVD risk factors, including obesity, smoking, lipid metabolism disorders, and inflammatory markers, remains underexplored.

Methods

This study examined the relationship between six periodontal pathogens (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Treponema denticola, Tannerella forsythia, Prevotella intermedia, and Fusobacterium nucleatum) and CVD risk factors among 189 subjects stratified by age and body mass index (BMI). Body composition was assessed via bioimpedance analysis, and blood samples were analyzed for lipid profiles, glucose, and proinflammatory cytokines. Oral samples were collected for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis to identify periodontal pathogens. Cardiovascular and diabetes risk scores were calculated using the SCORE and FINDRISC scales.

Results

The prevalence of periodontal pathogens in the population was 33.0% for P. gingivalis, 47.8% for P. intermedia, 63.4% for A. actinomycetemcomitans, 46.6% for T. forsythia, 46.6% for T. denticola, and 89.2% for F. nucleatum. Significant age- and BMI-related differences were observed in pathogen prevalence, particularly with P. gingivalis, P. intermedia, and T. denticola. Young obese individuals exhibited a higher prevalence of P. intermedia and T. forsythia. P. gingivalis was found to be associated with hypertension and dyslipidemia, while P. intermedia was linked to hypertension and obesity. T. denticola was associated with obesity, dyslipidemia and smoking, whereas T. forsythia was linked to dyslipidemia alone.

Conclusions

This study highlights the potential connection between periodontal pathogens and risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease, including smoking, elevated BMI, increased adipose tissue, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Further research is required to determine the causal relationships between oral microbiome dysbiosis, obesity and, systemic diseases and to develop an effective strategy for preventing oral health-related CVD risk factors in young adults.
Forecasting the development of antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus
Authors: Shemetov Oleh , Faustova Mariia , Perepelova Tetiana , Balia Hennadii , Pavlish Ihor , Loban' Galina
Published: January 2025

Today, about 15.0% of odontogenic pathology is caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The aim of the study was to predict the development of antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus based on retrospective data.

Methods

A total of 425 patients undergoing treatment for odontogenic infectious diseases of the facial area during 2019–2023 were involved in the study. The object of the study was 106 clinical isolates of S. aureus that were isolated and identified from patients. Determining the sensitivity of the obtained isolates to antimicrobial drugs was carried out using Vitek antimicrobial susceptibility testing (Biomerioux, France) and analyzed according to the breackpoint tables of the EUCAST. Prediction of the development of antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus to various antibiotics was carried out on the basis of the received sensitivity data of the studied isolates in 2019–2023 using the exponential smoothing method.

Results

The antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus isolates to various antibiotics changed annually during 2019–2023. The level of resistance of S. aureus isolates to benzylpenicillin wavered between 40%–50% from 2019 to 2023 with the trend of an 18.0% increase over the next five years. A uniform plateau of antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus to cefoxitin is predicted at the level of 32.0% during 2024–2028. We recorded the highest portions of S. aureus resistant to norfloxacin (33.3%) and ciprofloxacin (16.7%) in 2023 with prediction of its increasing in the next five years within the range of 20.0%. It was established that S. aureus may reach 100.0% resistance to gentamicin in 2027. According to exponential smoothing, the level of S. aureus resistance to amikacin will increase by 22.7% over the next five-year period. Moreover, representatives of this species of bacteria can develop complete (100.0%) resistance to tetracycline as early as 2027.

Conclusions

Mathematical prediction of the development of antimicrobial sensitivity of S. aureus isolates showed a high probability of its development to antibiotics of all groups in the next five years.
How do intermediary organizations affect cultivated land conservation in China: the mediating role of land tenure stability
Authors: Cai Jian , Chen Jiating , Wu Runmin , Omar Rosmini , Ning Binyao
Published: January 2025

Economic pressure frequently prompts farmers in developing regions to prioritize immediate financial returns over long-term land conservation. This study examines how land intermediary organizations affect Chinese farmers’ willingness to conserve cultivated land. Using bounded rationality and property rights theories, we conducted quantitative research involving 564 farmers across five provinces in mainland China. The results show that intermediary organizations improve farmers’ willingness to conserve land, mediated by land tenure stability. Notably, both human capital (education level) and social capital (village cadre status) negatively moderated the impact of intermediary organizations’ involvement in farmers’ willingness to conserve cultivated land. The results of this study indicate the necessity of improving land conservation practices, considering the role of institutional support and individual characteristics of farmers. In terms of policy implications, there is a need to adapt intermediary services to align with the capital levels of farmers, enhance the security of land-use rights by streamlining registration procedures, and implement targeted information systems and incentive schemes. Limitations of this study include its cross-sectional design and potential regional variations.
Novel introductions of human-origin H3N2 influenza viruses in swine, Chile
Authors: Agüero Belen Monserrat , Ariyama Naomi , Berrios Felipe , Enciso Nikita , Quezada Barbara , Medina Rafael A. , Neira Victor
Published: January 2025

Influenza A virus (IAV) continuously threatens animal and public health globally, with swine serving as a crucial reservoir for viral reassortment and evolution. In Chile, H1N2 and H3N2 subtypes were introduced in the swine population before the H1N1 2009 pandemic, and the H1N1 was introduced from the H1N1pdm09 by successive reverse zoonotic events. Here, we report two novel introductions of IAV H3N2 human-origin in Chilean swine during 2023. Our study reveals a closer relationship between recent human seasonal H3N2 and novel swine strains. Interestingly, one strain maintains all the genes from the original human virus, but the other strain is already a reassortment of human H3N2 and an H1N2 previously observed on the farm. Observing global IAV sequences, a similar pattern was identified in the USA confirming the reverse zoonotic potential of current seasonal human H3N2 strains. These results highlight the importance of ongoing surveillance and reinforcing biosecurity in swine farms. These findings raise questions about their potential impact on viral dynamics in the swine population and public health, underscoring the need for further investigation into the origin and evolutionary dynamics of this emerging swine H3N2 reassortant virus.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and Sensor-Based Technologies: A Systematic Review of Methodologies in Autism Spectrum Disorder Detection
Authors: Bouchouras Georgios , Kotis Konstantinos
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a systematic review of the emerging applications of artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and sensor-based technologies in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The integration of these technologies has led to promising advances in identifying unique behavioral, physiological, and neuroanatomical markers associated with ASD. Through an examination of recent studies, we explore how technologies such as wearable sensors, eye-tracking systems, virtual reality environments, neuroimaging, and microbiome analysis contribute to a holistic approach to ASD diagnostics. The analysis reveals how these technologies facilitate non-invasive, real-time assessments across diverse settings, enhancing both diagnostic accuracy and accessibility. The findings underscore the transformative potential of AI, IoT, and sensor-based driven tools in providing personalized and continuous ASD detection, advocating for data-driven approaches that extend beyond traditional methodologies. Ultimately, this review emphasizes the role of technology in improving ASD diagnostic processes, paving the way for targeted and individualized assessments.
Design of a New Energy Microgrid Optimization Scheduling Algorithm Based on Improved Grey Relational Theory
Authors: Mo Dong , Li Qiuwen , Sun Yan , Zhuo Yixin , Deng Fangming
Published: January 2025

In order to solve the problem of the large-scale integration of new energy into power grid output fluctuations, this paper proposes a new energy microgrid optimization scheduling algorithm based on a two-stage robust optimization and improved grey correlation theory. This article simulates the fluctuation of the outputs of wind turbines and distributed photovoltaic power plants by changing their robustness indicators, generates economic operating cost data for microgrids in multiple scenarios, and uses an improved grey correlation theory algorithm to analyze the correlation between new energy and various scheduling costs. Subsequently, a weighted analysis is performed on each correlation degree to obtain the correlation degree between new energy and total scheduling operating costs. The experimental results show that the improved grey correlation theory optimization scheduling algorithm for new energy microgrids proposed obtains weighted correlation degrees of 0.730 and 0.798 for photovoltaic power stations and wind turbines, respectively, which are 3.1% and 4.6% higher than traditional grey correlation theory. In addition, the equipment maintenance costs of this method are 0.413 and 0.527, respectively, which are 25.1% and 5.4% lower compared to the traditional method, respectively, indicating that the method effectively improves the accuracy of quantitative analysis.