bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual-somatosensory integration (VSI) as a novel marker of Alzheimer’s disease: A comprehensive overview of the VSI study
Authors: Mahoney Jeannette R. , Blumen Helena M. , De Sanctis Pierfilippo , Fleysher Roman , Frankini Carolina , Hoang Alexandria , Hoptman Matthew J. , Jin Runqiu , Lipton Michael , Nunez Valerie , Twizer Lital , Uy Naomi , Valdivia Ana , Verghese Tanya , Wang Cuiling , Weiss Erica F. , Zwerling Jessica , Verghese Joe
Published: March 2023

Identification of novel, non-invasive, non-cognitive based markers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias are a global priority. Growing evidence suggests that Alzheimer’s pathology manifests in sensory association areas well before appearing in neural regions involved in higher-order cognitive functions, such as memory. Previous investigations have not comprehensively examined the interplay of sensory, cognitive, and motor dysfunction with relation to AD progression. The ability to successfully integrate multisensory information across multiple sensory modalities is a vital aspect of everyday functioning and mobility. Our research suggests that multisensory integration, specifically visual-somatosensory integration (VSI), could be used as a novel marker for preclinical AD given previously reported associations with important motor (balance, gait, and falls) and cognitive (attention) outcomes in aging. While the adverse effect of dementia and cognitive impairment on the relationship between multisensory functioning and motor outcomes has been highlighted, the underlying functional and neuroanatomical networks are still unknown. In what follows we detail the protocol for our study, named The VSI Study, which is strategically designed to determine whether preclinical AD is associated with neural disruptions in subcortical and cortical areas that concurrently modulate multisensory, cognitive, and motor functions resulting in mobility decline. In this longitudinal observational study, a total of 208 community-dwelling older adults with and without preclinical AD will be recruited and monitored yearly. Our experimental design affords assessment of multisensory integration as a new behavioral marker for preclinical AD; identification of functional neural networks involved in the intersection of sensory, motor, and cognitive functioning; and determination of the impact of early AD on future mobility declines, including incident falls. Results of The VSI Study will guide future development of innovative multisensory-based interventions aimed at preventing disability and optimizing independence in pathological aging.
Theoretical considerations and supporting evidence for the primary role of source geometry on field potential amplitude and spatial extent
Authors: Herreras Oscar , Torres Daniel , Makarov Valeriy A. , Makarova Julia
Published: March 2023

Field potential (FP) recording is an accessible means to capture the shifts in the activity of neuron populations. However, the spatial and composite nature of these signals has largely been ignored, at least until it became technically possible to separate activities from co-activated sources in different structures or those that overlap in a volume. The pathway-specificity of mesoscopic sources has provided an anatomical reference that facilitates transcending from theoretical analysis to the exploration of real brain structures. We review computational and experimental findings that indicate how prioritizing the spatial geometry and density of sources, as opposed to the distance to the recording site, better defines the amplitudes and spatial reach of FPs. The role of geometry is enhanced by considering that zones of the active populations that act as sources or sinks of current may arrange differently with respect to each other, and have different geometry and densities. Thus, observations that seem counterintuitive in the scheme of distance-based logic alone can now be explained. For example, geometric factors explain why some structures produce FPs and others do not, why different FP motifs generated in the same structure extend far while others remain local, why factors like the size of an active population or the strong synchronicity of its neurons may fail to affect FPs, or why the rate of FP decay varies in different directions. These considerations are exemplified in large structures like the cortex and hippocampus, in which the role of geometrical elements and regional activation in shaping well-known FP oscillations generally go unnoticed. Discovering the geometry of the sources in play will decrease the risk of population or pathway misassignments based solely on the FP amplitude or temporal pattern.
Brainstem neural mechanisms controlling locomotion with special reference to basal vertebrates
Authors: Lacroix-Ouellette Philippe , Dubuc Réjean
Published: March 2023

Over the last 60 years, the basic neural circuitry responsible for the supraspinal control of locomotion has progressively been uncovered. Initially, significant progress was made in identifying the different supraspinal structures controlling locomotion in mammals as well as some of the underlying mechanisms. It became clear, however, that the complexity of the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) prevented researchers from characterizing the detailed cellular mechanisms involved and that animal models with a simpler nervous system were needed. Basal vertebrate species such as lampreys, xenopus embryos, and zebrafish became models of choice. More recently, optogenetic approaches have considerably revived interest in mammalian models. The mesencephalic locomotor region (MLR) is an important brainstem region known to control locomotion in all vertebrate species examined to date. It controls locomotion through intermediary cells in the hindbrain, the reticulospinal neurons (RSNs). The MLR comprises populations of cholinergic and glutamatergic neurons and their specific contribution to the control of locomotion is not fully resolved yet. Moreover, the downward projections from the MLR to RSNs is still not fully understood. Reporting on discoveries made in different animal models, this review article focuses on the MLR, its projections to RSNs, and the contribution of these neural elements to the control of locomotion. Excellent and detailed reviews on the brainstem control of locomotion have been recently published with emphasis on mammalian species. The present review article focuses on findings made in basal vertebrates such as the lamprey, to help direct new research in mammals, including humans.
Manual neuronavigation for superior semicircular canal dehiscence surgery
Authors: Altamami Nasser , Khoury Michel , Saliba Issam
Published: March 2023

Background

Intraoperative identification of a superior semicircular canal (SSC) dehiscence via the middle cranial fossa approach (MCFA) remains a difficult endeavor without a neuronavigation system. To address these challenges, we propose a technique to localize the SSC dehiscence intraoperatively using certain anatomical landmarks.

Method

Three anatomical landmarks should be identified on preoperative radiological images: the distance from the squamous part of the temporal bone to the dehiscent SSC, the lower limit of the craniotomy, and the exact location of the craniotomy in relation to the bony external auditory canal. The use of these landmarks intraoperatively can allow the surgeon to correctly identify the position of the SSC. Two instructional videos explaining this technique are presented.

Conclusion

The proposed manual neuronavigation technique seems to be an accurate, safe, and cost-effective alternative technique for use in SSC dehiscence surgery.
The etiology and evolution of magnetic resonance imaging-visible perivascular spaces: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Okar Serhat V. , Hu Fengling , Shinohara Russell T. , Beck Erin S. , Reich Daniel S. , Ineichen Benjamin V.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Perivascular spaces have been involved in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Upon a certain size, these spaces can become visible on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), referred to as enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS) or MRI-visible perivascular spaces (MVPVS). However, the lack of systematic evidence on etiology and temporal dynamics of MVPVS hampers their diagnostic utility as MRI biomarker. Thus, the goal of this systematic review was to summarize potential etiologies and evolution of MVPVS.

Methods

In a comprehensive literature search, out of 1,488 unique publications, 140 records assessing etiopathogenesis and dynamics of MVPVS were eligible for a qualitative summary. 6 records were included in a meta-analysis to assess the association between MVPVS and brain atrophy.

Results

Four overarching and partly overlapping etiologies of MVPVS have been proposed: (1) Impairment of interstitial fluid circulation, (2) Spiral elongation of arteries, (3) Brain atrophy and/or perivascular myelin loss, and (4) Immune cell accumulation in the perivascular space. The meta-analysis in patients with neuroinflammatory diseases did not support an association between MVPVS and brain volume measures [R: −0.15 (95%-CI −0.40–0.11)]. Based on few and mostly small studies in tumefactive MVPVS and in vascular and neuroinflammatory diseases, temporal evolution of MVPVS is slow.

Conclusion

Collectively, this study provides high-grade evidence for MVPVS etiopathogenesis and temporal dynamics. Although several potential etiologies for MVPVS emergence have been proposed, they are only partially supported by data. Advanced MRI methods should be employed to further dissect etiopathogenesis and evolution of MVPVS. This can benefit their implementation as an imaging biomarker.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=346564, identifier CRD42022346564.
Identification of nicotine-seeking and avoiding larval zebrafish using a new three-choice behavioral assay
Authors: Schneider Henning , Pearson Anna , Harris Drew , Krause Sabrina , Tucker Andrew , Gardner Kaitlyn , Chinyanya Kuzivakwashe
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Nicotine dependence is one of the main causes of preventable diseases in the United States. Nicotine-seeking and avoidance behavioral assays in larval zebrafish could be used for identifying potential new pharmacotherapeutics in an early phase of drug discovery and could facilitate the identification of genes and genomic variations associated with nicotine-seeking and avoidance behavior.

Methods

A new three-choice behavioral assay has been developed for the identification of nicotine-seeking and avoiding larval zebrafish. The three choices are represented by three compartments of a gradient maze. Video-recording and subsequent quantitative analysis of the swimming track was carried out using EthovisionXT (Noldus).

Results

Three behavioral phenotypes could be identified. Nicotine-seeking larval zebrafish occupied nicotine compartments for longer periods and entered the nicotine-containing compartments most frequently. Nicotine-avoiders spent most of the cumulative time in the water compartment or entered the water compartment most frequently. Non-seekers remained in the center compartment for most of the time. In the gradient maze, about 20–30% of larval zebrafish had a preference for low nicotine concentrations whereas nicotine avoidance was stronger at higher nicotine concentrations. Lower concentrations of nicotine (0.63 μM, 6.3 μM) resulted in higher percentages of nicotine seekers whereas high nicotine concentrations (63 μM, 630 µM) resulted in higher percentages of nicotine avoiders. Pre-treatment of larval zebrafish with nicotine slightly increased the percentage of nicotine avoiders at lower nicotine concentrations. Treatment with varenicline strongly increased the percentage of nicotine avoiders at lower nicotine concentrations.

Conclusion

The results show that larval zebrafish have individual preferences for nicotine that could change with drug treatment. The three-choice gradient maze assay for larval zebrafish provides a new testing paradigm for studying the molecular and cellular mechanisms of nicotine action and the discovery of potential new pharmacotherapeutics for the treatment of smoking cessation.
Nutrient intakes of pregnant and lactating women in Indonesia and Malaysia: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Agustina Rina , Rianda Davrina , Lasepa Wanda , Birahmatika Fitya S. , Stajic Vladimir , Mufida Rachmi
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Optimizing dietary intake during pregnancy and lactation is crucial to the growth and development of children and their lifelong health. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to describe the nutrient intakes of pregnant and lactating women in Indonesia and Malaysia, countries that are experiencing rapid nutrition transition in Southeast Asia.

Methods

We screened 2,258 studies published between January 1980 and March 2021. The nutrient intakes of pregnant and lactating women were quantitatively analyzed to calculate the percentage of adequacy using national recommended daily allowances or nutrient intakes (RDA/RNI) and estimated average requirements (EAR) for micronutrients. Standardized mean differences (SMD) between dietary intake and RDA/RNI were determined for selected nutrients.

Results

Fifty-three studies were included and showed that energy and macronutrient intakes among pregnant and lactating women in both countries were below the RDA/RNI. In addition, most studies reported that women failed to meet the EAR for vitamin D (<70% EAR), vitamin E (<50% EAR), and water-soluble vitamins (<80% EAR) except for vitamin C and A among Malaysians. Moreover, calcium, potassium, and iron intakes of pregnant women were <60% EAR in Indonesia and <80% EAR in Malaysia. Phosphorus intake among pregnant women in both countries and sodium intake among Malaysian pregnant women exceeded 100% EAR. Indonesian lactating women had <60% EAR for calcium and potassium intakes, while Malaysian women had more than 100% EAR. For 21 studies reporting overall protein intakes, the standard mean difference (SMD) was −2.26 (95% CI; −2.98, −1.54) below the RDA/RNI for pregnant women and −0.67 SMD (95% CI −15.7, −11.5) for lactating women. When the four studies from Malaysia were analyzed separately, protein intakes of pregnant women were above the RNI. Moreover, low intakes of vitamin D, vitamin C, calcium, and iron, but sufficient intakes in vitamin A, zinc, and phosphorus were observed in pregnant women in both countries.

Conclusion

Dietary intakes of energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients (vitamin D, vitamin E, water-soluble vitamins, calcium, and iron) of pregnant and lactating women in Indonesia and Malaysia were below the recommendations. Important heterogeneities were observed even between these two countries for specific essential nutrient intakes. Innovative research and targeted programs to address specific deficiencies should be prioritized.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021252204, identifier: CRD42021252204.
The Metabolic Matrix: Re-engineering ultraprocessed foods to feed the gut, protect the liver, and support the brain
Authors: Harlan Timothy S. , Gow Rachel V. , Kornstädt Andreas , Alderson P. Wolfram , Lustig Robert H.
Published: March 2023

Ultraprocessed food is established as a metabolic disruptor acting to increase adiposity, reduce mitochondrial efficiency, drive insulin resistance, alter growth, and contribute to human morbidity and mortality. Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are beginning to understand the detrimental impact of the food they market, and have employed substitution strategies to reduce salt, sugar, and fat. However, the harms of ultraprocessed foods are far more complex than any single component, and are not ameliorated by such simple substitutions. Over the past 2 years, the authors have worked with the Kuwaiti Danish Dairy Company (KDD) to conduct a comprehensive scientific evaluation of their entire commercial food and beverage portfolio. Assay of the macronutrients, micronutrients, additives, and toxins contained in each of their products was undertaken to determine the precise nature of each product’s ingredients as well as the health impacts of processing. The authors formed a Scientific Advisory Team (SAT) and developed a tiered “Metabolic Matrix” founded in three science-based principles: (1) protect the liver, (2) feed the gut, and (3) support the brain. The Metabolic Matrix categorizes each product and provides the criteria, metrics, and recommendations for improvement or reformulation. Real-time consultation with the KDD Executive and Operations teams was vital to see these procedures through to fruition. This scientific exercise has enabled KDD to lay the groundwork for improving the health, well-being, and sustainability of their entire product line, while maintaining flavor, economic, and fiscal viability. This process is easily transferrable, and we are sharing this effort and its approaches as a proof-of-concept. The key aim of our work is to not only make ultraprocessed food healthier but to urge other food companies to implement similar analysis and reformulation of their product lines to improve the metabolic health and well-being of consumers worldwide.
Single and combined use of the platelet-lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, and systemic immune-inflammation index in gastric cancer diagnosis
Authors: Zhang Jingliang , Zhang Li , Duan Shusheng , Li Zhi , Li Guodong , Yu Haiyan
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) are markers for systemic inflammatory responses and have been shown by numerous studies to correlate with the prognosis of gastric cancer (GC). However, the diagnostic value of these three markers in GC is unclear, and no research has examined them in combination. In this study, we investigated the value of the PLR, NLR, and SII individually or in combination for GC diagnosis and elucidated the connection of these three markers with GC patients’ clinicopathological features.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted on 125 patients diagnosed with GC and 125 healthy individuals, whose peripheral blood samples were obtained for analysis. The preoperative PLR, NLR, and SII values were subsequently calculated.

Results

The results suggest that the PLR, NLR, and SII values of the GC group were considerably higher than those of the healthy group (all P ≤ 0.001); moreover, all three parameters were notably higher in early GC patients (stage I/II) than in the healthy population. The diagnostic value of each index for GC was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and area under the curve (AUC) calculation. The diagnostic efficacy of the SII alone (AUC: 0.831; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.777–0.885) was expressively better than those of the NLR (AUC: 0.821; 95% CI: 0.769–0.873, P = 0.017) and PLR (AUC: 0.783; 95% CI: 0.726–0.840; P = 0.020). The AUC value of the combination of the PLR, NLR, and SII (AUC: 0.843; 95% CI: 0.791–0.885) was significantly higher than that of the combination of the SII and NLR (0.837, 95% CI: 0.785–0.880, P≤0.05), PLR (P = 0.020), NLR (P = 0.017), or SII alone (P ≤ 0.001). The optimal cut-off values were determined for the PLR, NLR, and SII using ROC analysis (SII: 438.7; NLR: 2.1; PLR: 139.5). Additionally, the PLR, NLR, and SII values were all meaningfully connected with the tumor size, TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, and serosa invasion (all P ≤ 0.05). Elevated levels of the NLR and SII were linked to distant metastasis (all P ≤ 0.001).

Discussion

These data suggest that the preoperative PLR, NLR, and SII could thus be utilized as diagnostic markers for GC or even early GC. Among these three indicators, the SII had the best diagnostic efficacy for GC, and the combination of the three could further improve diagnostic efficiency.
A novel scoring system for the quantitative prediction of prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Yu Yang , Wang Hao , Yang Jing-Jing , Fang Shu , Wen Ya-Nan , Jiao Yi-Fan , Qian Kun , Le Ning , Shan Ruo-Qi , Gao Wen-Jing , Hua Bao-Lai , Li Fei
Published: March 2023

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous hematopoietic malignancy. Patient prognosis cannot be accurately assessed in National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk stratification subgroups based on the current criteria. This study aimed to develop a novel prognostic score model for the quantitative prediction of prognosis in AML.

Results

We developed a prognostic risk scoring model of AML using differentially expressed genes to predict prognosis in patients with AML. Furthermore, we evaluated the effectiveness and clinical significance of this prognostic model in 4 AML cohorts and 905 patients with AML. A prognostic risk scoring model of AML containing eight prognosis-related genes was constructed using a multivariate Cox regression model. The model had a higher predictive value for the prognosis of AML in the training and validation sets. In addition, patients with lower scores had significantly better overall survival (OS) and even-free survival (EFS) than those with higher scores among patients with intermediate-risk AML according to the NCCN guidelines, indicating that the model could be used to further predict the prognosis of the intermediate-risk AML populations. Similarly, patients with high scores had remarkably poor OS and EFS in the normal-karyotype populations, indicating that the scoring model had an excellent predictive performance for patients with AML having normal karyotype.

Conclusions

Our study provided an individualized prognostic risk score model that could predict the prognosis of patients with AML.
Recent advances in vascularized tumor-on-a-chip
Authors: Huang Christina Bao Xian , Tu Ting-Yuan
Published: March 2023

The vasculature plays a critical role in cancer progression and metastasis, representing a pivotal aspect in the creation of cancer models. In recent years, the emergence of organ-on-a-chip technology has proven to be a robust tool, capable of replicating in vivo conditions with exceptional spatiotemporal resolution, making it a significant asset in cancer research. This review delves into the latest developments in 3D microfluidic vascularized tumor models and their applications in vitro, focusing on heterotypic cellular interactions, the mechanisms of metastasis, and therapeutic screening. Additionally, the review examines the benefits and drawbacks of these models, as well as the future prospects for their advancement.
Systematic pan-cancer analysis identifies gasdermin B as an immunological and prognostic biomarker for kidney renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Xuehe , Xie Feiyan , Ding Jin , Li Suhua , Li Jixi
Published: March 2023

Gasdermin (GSDM)-mediated cell lytic death plays an essential role in immunity and tumorigenesis. Despite the association of gasdermin B (GSDMB) with the tumorigenesis of various cancers, whether GSDMB functions as a prognostic biomarker in renal cell carcinoma remains poorly understood. Here, we explored the potential immunological functions and the prognostic value of GSDMB across multiple tumors with The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases, including analyzing the relationship between GSDMB expression and prognosis, tumor–immune system interactions, immunomodulators, and immune cell infiltration of different tumors. Importantly, elevated expression of GSDMB is an essential factor for the poor prognosis of kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) patients, suggesting that it might be helpful to predict a survival benefit from a clinical therapy regimen. Furthermore, GSDMB expression promoted the level of CD4+ T-cell infiltration of the tumors but is significantly negatively associated with immature dendritic cells (iDCs) in KIRC. Additionally, we identified TNFRSF25 and TNFSF14 as immunostimulators highly correlated with GSDMB expression. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses showed that GSDMB and its interacting proteins might affect tumor growth through the serine metabolism pathway. Our current results demonstrate a promising therapeutic strategy targeting GSDMB and provide new insights into GSDMB as an immunological and prognostic biomarker for KIRC.
Case report: A gain-of-function of hamartin may lead to a distinct “inverse TSC1-hamartin” phenotype characterized by reduced cell growth
Authors: Praticò Andrea D. , Falsaperla Raffaele , Comella Mattia , Belfiore Giuseppe , Polizzi Agata , Ruggieri Martino
Published: March 2023

Mutations of TSC1 and TSC2 genes cause classical Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), a neurocutaneous disorder characterized by a tendency to develop hamartias, hamartomas, and other tumors. We herein report on a girl, now aged 5 years, who presented a previously unreported, distinct clinical phenotype consisting of primary microcephaly (head circumference = 40 cm, −5.6 standard deviations), brain anomalies including hypoplasia of the corpus callosum (with a residual draft of the genu), simplified parieto-temporal gyral pattern, colpocephaly with ectasia of the temporal ventricular horns, intellectual disability, and a general pattern of reduced growth (with weight and height < 3rd centiles). No classical features of TSC were recorded; the girl harbored a novel missense variant in TSC1 (c.611G > A). We hypothesize that her clinical phenotype could be related to a “gain-of-function” of the TSC1 protein product hamartin, causing an increase in the effects of the protein on inhibition of its intracellular targets (i.e., mTORC or RAC1 pathways), resulting in a distinct “inverse TSC1-hamartin” phenotype characterized by reduced growth of cells instead of the more classical predisposition to increased cell growth.
Case report: Myocardial noncompaction causing massive cerebral infarction in 1 patient with eyelid edema as an early manifestation and literature review
Authors: Ge Pingping , Zhu Yafei
Published: March 2023

Objective

To summarize and analyze the early clinical manifestations, risk factors, treatment and prognosis of myocardial noncompaction in children, and to provide scientific basis for early and effective intervention.

Methods

Combined with a case of myocardial noncompaction with massive cerebral infarction in a child, the related research reports of myocardial noncompaction in children were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Myocardial noncompaction in children is cardiomyopathy caused by abnormal myocardial compaction during embryonic development. Feeding intolerance, dyspnea, chest tightness, fatigue, eyelid edema and other non-specific manifestations may occur in the early stage. It is easy to miss the diagnosis and misdiagnosis in clinical diagnosis and treatment, leading to intractable heart failure, nausea and arrhythmia, thromboembolism and even sudden death and other serious complications. Early diagnosis, symptomatic treatment, control of complications and regular follow-up can prevent the occurrence of serious complications and reduce mortality.

Conclusion

There is no specific clinical manifestation in the early stage of myocardial noncompaction in children. If it is not detected early and treated symptomatically, the prognosis is poor and the mortality is high. Therefore, clinicians should fully improve the understanding of the early clinical manifestations of this disease, give early diagnosis and early intervention to children, reduce the occurrence of serious complications and improve the survival rate.
Case report: A case of fetal umbilical vein varix presenting disseminated intravascular coagulation, polycythemia, and neonatal hepatitis in an extremely low birth weight infant
Authors: Sekiguchi Mariko , Mukai Takeo , Shitara Yoshihiko , Kashima Kohei , Seyama Takahiro , Kumasawa Keiichi , Takahashi Naoto
Published: March 2023

Reports on the clinical course of fetal umbilical vein varix in premature infants are limited. We report a case of an extremely low body weight infant with intra-abdominal umbilical vein varix who developed disseminated intravascular coagulation, polycythemia, and hyperbilirubinemia after birth; late-onset neonatal hepatitis; and fetal thrombotic vasculopathy confirmed by placental histopathology. Ultrasonography after birth showed a dilated portion of the umbilical vein at the hepatic hilum with thrombi inside. We speculate that the umbilical vein varix caused the fetal thrombotic vasculopathy, and the presence of umbilical vein varix and fetal thrombotic vasculopathy in combination with prematurity caused coagulopathy, polycythemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and hepatitis. Despite the favorable outcomes reported in the literature, premature infants with umbilical vein varix may require careful observation and management for coagulopathy and late-onset hepatitis. Furthermore, placental histopathology could aid in the understanding of various clinical outcomes in infants with umbilical vein varices.
SARS-CoV-2 pandemic as a catalyst? Development of emotional problems of preschool children of mothers with childhood maltreatment experiences in the course of the pandemic–a longitudinal analysis
Authors: Dalhof Manuela (Gulde) , Rost Katharina , Ziegenhain Ute , Fegert Jörg M. , Köhler-Dauner Franziska
Published: March 2023

Background

SARS-CoV-2 pandemic have posed great challenges for all families and children. Health risks and fears associated with SARS-CoV-2 negatively affect the parental mental health and perceived stress, which in turn influence parental coping and thereby impairs the mental health and well-being of their children. Additional risk factors within the parents, such as maternal childhood maltreatment (CM) experiences, may increase the risk of children to develop emotional problems during the pandemic.

Objective

The purpose of this longitudinal study is to determine whether preschool children of mothers with CM are at higher risk of developing emotional problems during the pandemic than preschool children of mothers without CM.

Method

74 mothers from a birth cohort examining pathways to resilience or vulnerability in the transgenerational transmission of CM, provided information on emotional problems of their children (aged 3–7 years) at two measurement time points (t1: May 2020, t2: March 2021) as part of an online “SARS-CoV-2 pandemic” survey. In addition, parents were asked for a retrospective assessment of their children's emotional problems before the pandemic at time t1. Children's emotional problems were assessed using the “emotional problems” scale of the German version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and linked to previously collected data on mothers' childhood maltreatment experiences, which were collected using the German short version of the Trauma in Childhood Questionnaire (CTQ).

Results

Our analyses showed that children's emotional problems increased significantly over the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic [F(1.86, 116.88) = 3.72, p = 0.030 η2 = 0.06] and were rated significantly higher in the group of children of mothers with CM, than in the group of mothers without CM [F(1, 63) = 126.06, p < 0.001 η2 = 0.67]. Furthermore children's emotional problems of mothers with CM increased significantly more and reached a clinically significant value during the pandemic than for children of mothers without CM [F(1.86, 116.88) = 8.89, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.12].

Conclusions

Children of mothers with CM appear to be at increased risk of developing emotional problems during the pandemic. CM therefore needs to be considered as an additional risk factor in the impact of the pandemic on children.
Selenium status in term neonates, according to birth weight and gestational age, in relation to maternal hypertensive pathology
Authors: Bizerea-Moga Teofana Otilia , Pitulice Laura , Bizerea-Spiridon Otilia , Angelescu Claudiu , Mărginean Otilia , Moga Tudor Voicu
Published: March 2023

Background

Pregnancy represents a state of increased oxidative stress and antioxidants, in which selenium (Se) plays a pivotal role, contribute to maintain the oxidative balance. If antioxidant defenses are depleted, placental function is disrupted, resulting in pregnancy complications, including pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). Little is known about fetal selenium status in concomitant relation to maternal PIH, gestational age (GA) and birthweight (BW).

Methods

We examined over a 3-year period the serum (SeS) and urine selenium (SeU) status in term neonates from normotensive (nonPIH) and hypertensive (PIH) mothers as clinical markers of oxidative stress. In this retrospective observational study, 72 neonates with maternal PIH were matched for GA and BW to 72 neonates of normotensive mothers. Four groups were obtained, based on maternal PIH and BW relative to GA (appropriate-for-gestational-age—AGA, small-for-gestational-age—SGA): nonPIH-AGA (control group), nonPIH-SGA, PIH-AGA, and PIH-SGA.

Results

The results showed significant differences (p < 0.001) in selenium levels among the study groups: SeS - 44.85 ± 7.56 μg/L in nonPIH-AGA, 39.62 ± 11.42 μg/L in nonPIH-SGA, 40.01 ± 10.07 μg/L in PIH-AGA, and 25.39 ± 8.99 μg/L in PIH-SGA; SeU - 27.98 ± 7.99 μg/L in nonPIH-AGA, 22.85 ± 9.48 μg/L in nonPIH-SGA, 23.44 ± 6.73 μg/L in PIH-AGA, and 13.05 ± 5.86 μg/L in PIH-SGA. Selenium depletion was more common in neonates born from hypertensive mothers and those born small for gestational age. Though moderate in intensity, selenium levels were positively correlated with BW (0.319 for SeS, 0.397 for SeU) and negatively correlated with maternal systolic blood pressure (−0.313 for SeS, −0.324 for SeU). The main independent effects on SeS and SeU of each maternal blood pressure and birth weight turned out statistically significant. In interaction, a more pronounced effect was reached in PIH-SGA neonates.

Conclusion

Selenium status seemed to reflect the negative impact that PIH exerts in neonates during intrauterine development. Clinical markers of selenium status could thus be of great value for tracking responses of individuals to selenium supplementation as part of health improvement and harm mitigation approaches.
Identification of novel immune-related molecular subtypes and a prognosis model to predict thyroid cancer prognosis and drug resistance
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Ting , Li Xinyi , Li Tianshu , Ma Xiangchi , Zhao Dongxu , Liu Yueyang , Zheng Xueke , Zhao Xudong
Published: March 2023

Background: Thyroid cancer is a common malignant tumor of the endocrine system that has shown increased incidence in recent decades. We explored the relationship between tumor-infiltrating immune cell classification and the prognosis of thyroid carcinoma.

Methods: RNA-seq, SNV, copy number variance (CNV), and methylation data for thyroid cancer were downloaded from the TCGA dataset. ssGSEA was used to calculate pathway scores. Clustering was conducted using ConsensusClusterPlus. Immune infiltration was assessed using ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT. CNV and methylation were determined using GISTIC2 and the KNN algorithm. Immunotherapy was predicted based on TIDE analysis.

Results: Three molecular subtypes (Immune-enrich(E), Stromal-enrich(E), and Immune-deprived(D)) were identified based on 15 pathways and the corresponding genes. Samples in Immune-E showed higher immune infiltration, while those in Immune-D showed increased tumor mutation burden (TMB) and mutations in tumor driver genes. Finally, Immune-E showed higher CDH1 methylation, higher progression-free survival (PFS), higher suitability for immunotherapy, and higher sensitivity to small-molecule chemotherapeutic drugs. Additionally, an immune score (IMScore) based on four genes was constructed, in which the low group showed better survival outcome, which was validated in 30 cancers. Compared to the TIDE score, the IMScore showed better predictive ability.

Conclusion: This study constructed a prognostic evaluation model and molecular subtype system of immune-related genes to predict the thyroid cancer prognosis of patients. Moreover, the interaction network between immune genes may play a role by affecting the biological function of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment.
Sex chromosome complement and sex steroid signaling underlie sex differences in immunity to respiratory virus infection
Authors: Miller Reegan A. J. , Williams Abigael P. , Kovats Susan
Published: March 2023

Epidemiological studies have revealed sex differences in the incidence and morbidity of respiratory virus infection in the human population, and often these observations are correlated with sex differences in the quality or magnitude of the immune response. Sex differences in immunity and morbidity also are observed in animal models of respiratory virus infection, suggesting differential dominance of specific immune mechanisms. Emerging research shows intrinsic sex differences in immune cell transcriptomes, epigenomes, and proteomes that may regulate human immunity when challenged by viral infection. Here, we highlight recent research into the role(s) of sex steroids and X chromosome complement in immune cells and describe how these findings provide insight into immunity during respiratory virus infection. We focus on the regulation of innate and adaptive immune cells by receptors for androgen and estrogens, as well as genes with a propensity to escape X chromosome inactivation. A deeper mechanistic knowledge of these pathways will help us to understand the often significant sex differences in immunity to endemic or pandemic respiratory pathogens such as influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial viruses and pathogenic coronaviruses.
Sex-related differences in endothelial function and blood viscosity in the elderly population
Authors: Raberin Antoine , Martin Cyril , Celle Sébastien , Hupin David , Roche Frederic , Barthelemy Jean-Claude , Connes Philippe
Published: March 2023

Elderly represents a growing population and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is one of the leading causes of mortality in this population. Sex differences are involved in CVD with middle-aged males being at higher risk than females. After menopause, females are no longer protected by hormones and the role of sex on cardiovascular parameters involved in CVD, such as endothelial function and blood viscosity, is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of sex on endothelial function, blood viscosity and CVD in elderly. Clinical investigation and blood analyses were performed on 182 (93 females and 89 males) elderly participants (mean age: 75.83 ± 1.22). Health status of participants were classified. Sex differences in endothelial function, blood viscosity, high density lipoprotein (HDL), hematocrit, and red blood cell (RBC) aggregation were assessed. CVD prevalence was higher in males (27.0%) than in females (5.4%) (p < 0.001). Females had higher vasoreactivity (p = 0.014) and HDL (p < 0.001) level than males. Blood viscosity was higher in males than in females at any shear rate (p < 0.001). Hematocrit was greater in males than in females (p < 0.001) while RBC aggregation did not differ between the two populations. To conclude, females have less CVD than age-matched males that might be due to their greater vascular function and lower blood viscosity.
Identification of wheat stem rust resistance genes in wheat cultivars from Hebei province, China
Authors: Sun Huiyan , Wang Ziye , Wang Rui , Chen Si , Ni Xinyu , Gao Fu , Zhang Yazhao , Xu Yiwei , Wu Xianxin , Li Tianya
Published: March 2023

Wheat stem rust is caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici. This major disease has been effectively controlled via resistance genes since the 1970s. The appearance and spread of new races of P. graminis f. sp. tritici (eg., Ug99, TKTTF, and TTRTF) have renewed the interest in identifying the resistance gene and breeding cultivars resistant to wheat stem rust. In this study, gene postulation, pedigree analysis, and molecular detection were used to determine the presence of stem rust resistance genes in 65 commercial wheat cultivars from Hebei Province. In addition, two predominant races 21C3CTHTM and 34MRGQM were used to evaluate the resistance of these cultivars at the adult-plant stage in 2021–2022. The results revealed that 6 Sr genes (namely, Sr5, Sr17, Sr24, Sr31, Sr32, Sr38, and SrTmp), either singly or in combination, were identified in 46 wheat cultivars. Overall, 37 wheat cultivars contained Sr31. Sr5 and Sr17 were present in 3 and 3 cultivars, respectively. Gao 5218 strong gluten, Jie 13-Ji 7369, and Kenong 1006 contained Sr24, Sr32, and Sr38, respectively. No wheat cultivar contained Sr25 and Sr26. In total, 50 (76.9%) wheat cultivars were resistant to all tested races of P. graminis f. sp. tritici in field test in 2021–2022. This study is important for breeding wheat cultivars with resistance to stem rust.
Production and reception of human resource management practices for health promotion
Authors: Storti Beatriz Cintra , Sticca Marina Greghi , Pérez-Nebra Amalia Raquel
Published: March 2023

Organizations thrive when there is a healthy relationship between people, i.e., where there is high social capital. Human resource management practices (HRMP) contribute to promoting social capital and mental health in organizations. However, there remains a gap in the literature on practices to promote mental health, as well as on the difference in perception of the function of the practices between those who promote them and those who receive them. Thus, this study aimed to identify what HRMP oriented toward mental health promotions are, how they are perceived, and whether there is variation among these perceptions. Twenty managers and 11 subordinates were interviewed. To achieve the first two objectives, a content analysis was performed, and for the last, a lexical analysis. In the content analysis, the following categories emerged for both groups: work organization and idiosyncratic deals and affective social support. Only in the managers did the categories of informational support, communication, and maintaining good interpersonal relationships emerge. The lexical analysis suggested that managers perceive task-related practices as promoting mental health, while teams attribute importance to affective social support practices. HRMP psychological principles were described. Social support practices should be adopted as human resource protective strategies for mental health.
Unraveling the complexity of the associations between students’ science achievement, motivation, and teachers’ feedback
Authors: Katsantonis Ioannis , McLellan Ros , Torres Pablo E.
Published: March 2023

In recent decades, national science achievement in Greece is following a declining trend. A commonly held assumption is that achievement declines may occur either due to low quality teaching practices or due to students’ low motivation. While motivational beliefs have been linked with achievement, there is not enough evidence connecting these motivational constructs with teachers’ feedback, which can play an important role in nurturing both students’ motivation and achievement. Given that less is known about how these variables collectively function in predicting students’ science achievement, the present study draws upon the Greek (N = 5,532 students, N = 211 schools) PISA 2015 dataset to address this issue. A serial multiple mediation multilevel structural equation model was deployed. The results illustrated that the association between feedback and science achievement was partially mediated by the complex network of associations between students’ motivational beliefs. Intrinsic motivation was the strongest predictor of achievement, while feedback positively predicted students’ motivational beliefs. Unexpectedly, feedback was a negative predictor of achievement both at the individual and school level. The results suggest that interventions are needed to target specifically teachers’ feedback practices and intrinsic motivation.
The development and validation of multidimensional workplace compassion scale: Linking its conceptualization and measurement
Authors: Mandliya Anshul , Pandey Jatin
Published: March 2023

Organizational compassion is a powerful force that possesses the capability to move individuals and groups towards a common good. Research on organizational compassion or compassion in the workplace has discussed its potential to reduce individual suffering and enhance positive emotions, wellbeing, and dignity. The existing literature lacks a valid and reliable measure of workplace compassion that follows the recent conceptualization of organizational compassion. This research presents the development and validation of workplace compassion scale. The scale development process consisted of four studies with a total sample of 947 respondents. In study 1, we developed the items for the new measure, by considering the four-factor conceptualization of organizational compassion. Study 2 and 3 focuses on item purification and testing the model fit indices of the proposed scale. In study 4, we followed a time separated design to test the nomological network and discriminant validity of the workplace compassion scale. The final workplace compassion scale consists of 12 items that measure other-oriented/expressed compassion in the workplace. The scale is beneficial for providing impetus to future quantitative research in organizational compassion.
The dark side of empathy in narcissistic personality disorder
Authors: di Giacomo Ester , Andreini Elena , Lorusso Ottavia , Clerici Massimo
Published: March 2023

Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by self-absorption, grandiosity, exploitation of others and lack of empathy. People with that disorder may switch from an overt form, mainly with grandiosity, to a covert presentation, with fears, hypersensitivity and dependence from others. Empathy represents a key point in detecting people affected by narcissistic personality disorder because, even if it is described as reduced, it plays a fundamental role in exploitation and manipulation. A systematic search of Literature without any language or time restriction, was performed combining thesaurus and free-search indexing terms related to Narcissistic personality disorder and empathy and produced 531 results. Fifty-two papers that analyzed possible issues in the empathic attitude of people with narcissistic personality disorder were included in this narrative review. Empathy is the capability of understating and feeling others emotions. It is not a unitary construct and can be distinguished in cognitive and affective. It might be channeled into prosocial and antisocial behaviors. A crucial trait identified in narcissistic empathy is affective dissonance that is closely related to rivalry as part of the dark tetrad (narcissism, machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism). Subjects affected by narcissistic personality disorder show greater impairment in affective aspects while their cognitive part of empathy appears preserved. Saving at least the cognitive aspects of empathy may contribute to therapeutic improvement of affective aspects.
The association between affective temperaments and depressive symptoms in a population of medical university students, Poland
Authors: Bartosik Natalia Karina , Frankowski Rafał , Kobierecki Mateusz , Deska Kacper , Twarowski Aleksander , Bąk Bartłomiej , Kosmalski Marcin , Pietras Tadeusz
Published: March 2023

Background

Compared to their peers, medical students are more exposed to stress, and many present symptoms of depression, making them a group prone to experiencing mental illnesses.

Objective

This study investigates a potential link between the occurrence of symptoms of depression and the dominating type of affective temperament in young people studying at a medical university.

Methods

One hundred thirty-four medical students were surveyed using two validated questionnaires; the Polish versions of Beck’s Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the Temperament Evaluation of the Memphis, Pisa, and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A).

Results

The data analysis revealed a significant link between symptoms of depression and affective temperaments, most significantly in subjects with an anxious temperament.

Conclusion

This study confirms the role of various affective temperaments as a risk factor for mood disorders, specifically depression.