bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of immune-related adverse events on the outcome of advanced gastric cancer patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment
Authors: Zhang Tianhang , Lv Haitao , Li Jiasong , Zhang Shasha , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Siqi , Wang Yingnan , Guo Zhanjun
Published: December 2024

Background

The occurrence of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) seemed to be associated with better outcomes in advanced gastric cancer (AGC) patients. However, research focusing on the impact of the single-organ irAE (uni-irAE) or multi-organ irAEs (multi-irAEs) on the AGC outcome is relatively limited. In this study, we investigated individually the impact of the different irAEs on AGC survival as well as the co-occurrence patterns of multi-irAEs.

Methods

The uni-irAE, multi-irAEs, and non-irAE were identified based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. ICI efficacy for the disease control rate (DCR) and the objective response rate (ORR) was assessed based on the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) Version 1.1. The association for the irAEs with progression-free survival (PFS) or overall survival (OS) was analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression model. We also performed pairwise correlation analysis to identify co-occurrence patterns of multi-organ irAEs.

Results

A total of 288 patients including 175 non-irAE, 73 uni-irAE, and 40 multi-irAE patients were evaluated for their association with AGC outcome. The irAEs patients displayed higher DCR (78.8% vs. 67.4%, p=0.037) when compared with those of non-irAE patients, and both uni-irAE patients (82.2% vs. 67.4%, p=0.019) and multi-irAE patients (72.5% vs. 67.4%, p=0.534) showed higher DCR than that of non-irAE patients. The multivariate analyses revealed that multi-irAEs was an independent risk factor for PFS (hazard ratio [HR] of 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41~0.96, p=0.031) and OS (HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.29~0.76, p=0.002), whereas the survival association for uni-irAE was not obtained. The analysis of the co-occurrence patterns for multi-irAEs revealed that the thyroid, adrenal gland, heart, skin, and lung irAEs exhibited a high risk of co-occurrence of multi-irAEs. The multivariate Cox regression analysis for organ-specific irAEs revealed that patients experiencing thyroid, adrenal gland, and skin irAEs had favorable survival outcomes compared with those without these irAEs.

Conclusion

Multi-irAEs and some organ-specific irAEs can be used as predictive indicators for ICI treatment efficacy in AGC patients. The thyroid, adrenal gland, heart, skin, and lung irAEs are often accompanied by multi-irAE occurrence.
EBV-specific T-cell immunity: relevance for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Behrens Malina , Comabella Manuel , Lünemann Jan D.
Published: December 2024

Genetic and environmental factors jointly determine the susceptibility to develop multiple sclerosis (MS). Improvements in the design of epidemiological studies have helped to identify consistent environmental risk associations such as the increased susceptibility for MS following Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection, while biological mechanisms that drive the association between EBV and MS remain incompletely understood. An increased and broadened repertoire of antibody and T-cell immune responses to EBV-encoded antigens, especially to the dominant CD4+ T-cell EBV nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1), is consistently observed in patients with MS, indicating that protective EBV-specific immune responses are deregulated in MS and potentially contribute to disease development. Exploitation of B-cell trajectories by EBV infection might promote survival of autoreactive B-cell species and proinflammatory B:T-cell interactions. In this review article, we illustrate evidence for a causal role of EBV infection in MS, discuss how EBV-targeting adaptive immune responses potentially modulate disease susceptibility and progression, and provide future perspectives on how novel model systems could be utilized to better define the role of EBV and viral pathogens in MS. Insights gained from these studies might facilitate the development of prevention strategies and more effective treatments for MS.
Ionizing radiation improves skin bacterial dysbiosis in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Chrisman Lauren P. , Pang Yanzhen , Hooper Madeline J. , Rajeev-Kumar Greeshma , Nguyen William Q. , Green Stefan J. , Seed Patrick C. , Liang Hua , Mittal Bharat B. , Hasan Yasmin , Guitart Joan , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Burns Michael B. , Zhou Xiaolong A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is closely associated with the host microbiome. While recent evidence suggests that shifts in specific bacterial taxa are associated with response to UV-B, a form of non-ionizing radiation, the impact of ionizing radiation (IR) has not been investigated.

Methods

16S rRNA and tuf gene amplicon sequencing were performed on DNA extracted from swabs of lesional/non-lesional skin of 12 CTCL patients before/after TSEBT or local IR and from 25 matched healthy controls (HC). Microbial diversity and taxonomic profiles were analyzed.

Results

Radiation exposure increased CTCL skin α-diversity to levels approximating HC. TSEBT appeared to carry the greatest effect compared to local IR. Both α and β-diversity differed significantly post versus pre-IR for TSEBT, but not for local IR. IR was associated with decreases in known pathogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus and S. aureus and increases in healthy commensal bacteria such as Anaerococcus, Bifidobacterium and commensal staphylococci including S. pettenkoferi. Substantially more taxa shifts were seen with TSEBT versus local IR.

Discussion

IR not only eliminates CTCL lesions via induction of apoptosis, but also facilitates skin barrier restoration and recolonization of bacterial taxa associated with a healthy skin microbiome. Local IR does not have as strong an effect on the skin microbiome as TSEBT. As skin microbiota act as immunomodulators with local and potentially systemic influence, TSEBT may also improve CTCL lesions via global effects on the skin microbiome. Future larger-scale studies are required to fully elucidate the relationship between cutaneous microbes and IR treatment in CTCL.
Comparative efficacy of Vector Guard® to Olyset® Plus insecticide-treated nets against strongly pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles arabiensis in experimental huts in Tanzania
Authors: Machange Jane Johnson , Mbuba Emmanuel , Irish Seth R. , Swai Johnson Kyeba , Ntabaliba Watson , Makungwa Noely Otto , Ngonyani Safina , Mpelepele Ahmadi Bakari , Kibondo Ummi Abdul , Odufuwa Olukayode G. , Moore Sarah Jane
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The resistance of malaria vectors to pyrethroids has compromised the efficacy of pyrethroid insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). In response, ITNs with pyrethroids and piperonyl butoxide (PBO) synergists were developed to overcome metabolic pyrethroid resistance mechanisms. One such net is Vector Guard®. To demonstrate its potential efficacy for public health use, a comparative efficacy study was conducted to evaluate Vector Guard® relative to Olyset® Plus (a pyrethroid–PBO ITN proven to reduce malaria transmission more effectively than pyrethroid ITNs) and Royal® Sentry 2.0 (a pyrethroid-only ITN included to demonstrate the added benefit of PBO) in experimental huts in Tanzania.

Methods

An experimental hut trial using two blocks of a 7 × 7 Latin square design was conducted over seven rounds (49 experimental nights). Treatments were rotated at the end of each round, and volunteers were rotated nightly within one block. Both unwashed and 20× washed nets of each type were evaluated, alongside an untreated net used as a negative control. The primary endpoint was the proportion of Anopheles arabiensis that died within 24 h, and the secondary endpoint was the proportion of blood feeding. Data were analyzed using binomial logistic regression with fixed effects using a 7% non-inferiority margin.

Results

The pooled results showed that Vector Guard® was non-inferior and was superior to Olyset® Plus, with higher mortality for Vector Guard® [28% vs. 18%; odds ratio (OR) = 1.93, 95%CI = 1.81–2.06]. Both pyrethroid–PBO nets were superior to Royal Sentry® 2.0 (p < 0.001) in terms of mosquito mortality. For the secondary blood feeding endpoint, Vector Guard® was also found to be non-inferior to Olyset® Plus (0.6% vs. 0.2%; OR = 2.37, 95%CI = 1.77–3.17). Vector Guard® showed similar efficacy to Royal Sentry® 2.0 in reducing the proportion of mosquito blood feeding (0.6% vs. 0.6%; OR = 0.85, 95%CI = 0.68–1.07, p = 0.161).

Conclusion

Vector Guard® demonstrated superior mosquito mortality compared with both Olyset® Plus and Royal Sentry® 2.0, indicating that Vector Guard® is another promising pyrethroid–PBO ITN for the control of resistant malaria vectors. The addition of Vector Guard® to the class of pyrethroid–PBO ITNs will enable malaria control programs to select cost-effective ITNs, improving access to effective protection from malaria transmitted by resistant vectors.
Linkage detection between climate oscillations and water and sediment discharge of 10 rivers in Eastern China
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhang Li , Zhong Yaozhao , Zou Huangjie , Lai Xiaohe , Xie Yanshuang
Published: December 2024

Water discharge and sediment load are often controlled by a combination of factors. However, the relationship between water and sediment load changes and meteorological oscillations has rarely been explored for different river sizes. Explanations for the various responses of water-sediment changes to meteorological factors in different rivers is important for understanding global hydrology. In this study, we analyzed data from 2002-2022 using cross-wavelet and wavelet coherence in an attempt to characterize the effects of large-scale climatic oscillations on 10 rivers in eastern China. Comparing the results shows that water releases lag three months or more behind SST variations. It also oscillates interannually (mostly every 8-16 months). Most rivers runoff lags changes in PDO by three months or more. The impact of ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation) on each river basin gradually decreases from south to north. The impacts on northern rivers such as the Yellow River, Huai Riverand Liao River are weaker. At the same time, the water discharge changes in the Pearl River and Minjiang River basins in southeastern China are extremely rapid and sensitive to ENSO events. Meanwhile, the impacts of ENSO on large rivers lasted throughout the study period, while the impacts of ENSO on smaller rivers had intermittent periods, and the response rates of geographically similar mountain and stream-type rivers were not the same. The effect of the PDO (Pacific Decadal Oscillation) warm and cold phases was different for each region. Our research contributes to understanding the relationship between rivers and climate oscillations, advancing Water-Sediment Balance and Global Sustainability—key goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Unveiling the dark side of Prevotella: a case of fatal pneumonia from a common probiotic
Authors: Li Meng-Jie , Zhou Shou-Feng , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yong , Fu Wen-Bo
Published: December 2024

Prevotella is often considered a Bacteroides complex associated with a healthy plant-based diet that acts as a “probiotic” throughout the body’s entire digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. Previous studies have not reported that this “probiotic” colonizing the human body could cause severe pneumonia. This case report describes a 56-year-old healthy female worker with gum pain followed by fever. Despite prompt medical attention given by the use of empirical antibiotics and tooth and oral cleaning, the disease rapidly progressed to retropharyngeal abscess and severe pneumonia. Although the surgeon performed pharynx and cervical incisions and drainage, the patient’s symptoms were not significantly relieved. After repeated blood culture and sputum culture, no positive findings were found. Fortunately, Prevotella oris was found in the peripheral blood of the patient by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). The disease was controlled quickly by changing the targeted antibiotics according to the guidelines for the detection of pathogenic bacteria. Three months after discharge, the patient’s symptoms did not resolve, and reexamination with computerized tomography (CT) showed that the neck and chest were normal. This case is unique in that it shows that normally colonized Prevotella oris could also cause fatal pneumonia as an opportunistic pathogen. Our goal is to highlight that serious infections that rapidly develop from common symptoms in an era of widespread antibiotic use not only increase patient misunderstanding but also lead to over detection and testing of such symptoms by clinicians. Expanding the pathogenic characteristics of special pathogens through the literature and using accurate mNGS may be the technical tool for resolving this contradiction.
Bioconversion of bread waste into high-quality proteins and biopolymers by fermentation of archaea Haloferax mediterranei
Authors: Unis Razan , Gnaim Rima , Kashyap Mrinal , Shamis Olga , Gnayem Nabeel , Gozin Michael , Liberzon Alexander , Gnaim Jallal , Golberg Alexander
Published: December 2024

The valorization of bread waste into high-quality protein and biopolymers using the halophilic microorganism Haloferax mediterranei presents a sustainable approach to food waste management and resource optimization. This study successfully coproduced protein and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) biopolymer with a biomass content of 8.0 ± 0.1 g L−1 and a productivity of 11.1 mg L−1 h−1. The fermentation process employed 3.0% w/v of enzymatically hydrolyzed bread waste. The amino acid profile of the cell biomass revealed a total content of 358 g kg−1 of biomass dry weight (DW), including 147 g kg−1 DW of essential amino acids. The protein quality, assessed through in-vitro enzyme digestion, indicated a high-quality protein with a digestibility value of 0.91 and a protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of 0.78. The PHBV biopolymer component (36.0 ± 6.3% w/w) consisted of a copolymer of 3-hydroxybutyrate and 3-hydroxyvalerate in a 91:9 mol% ratio. This bioconversion process not only mitigates food waste but also generates valuable biomaterials.
Electrotherapy as treatment for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy — a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sassmann Robert , Gampenrieder Simon Peter , Rieder Florian , Johansson Tim , Rinnerthaler Gabriel , Castagnaviz Vanessa , Lampl Kathrin , Herfert Jürgen , Kienberger Yvonne Theres , Flamm Maria , Schaffler-Schaden Dagmar , Greil Richard
Published: December 2024

Background

Electrotherapy has been investigated in chronic pain and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, however prospective trials in patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) are scarce.

Methods

Fifty-one patients with CIPN ≥ grade 1 subsequent to receiving platinum- and/or taxane-based chemotherapy types were randomized to 8 weeks of high tone external muscle stimulation (HTEMS) or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). The primary outcome were changes in the EORTC-QLQ-CIPN20 questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included clinical examinations, a classification of CIPN according to CTCAE v 4 and the EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaire. A control group (n = 17) receiving no intervention was recruited retrospectively.

Results

The EORTC-QLQ-CIPN20 sensory and motor scales improved in both intervention groups (TENS: −12.3pts and − 8.2pts; HTEMS: −14.7pts and − 8.2pts) with no significant changes in the control group −3.3pts; −2.8pts. The changes in the sensory scale differed significantly between the HTEMS and the control group. In the EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaire, there was a significant improvement for physical functioning in the HTEMS group only (+7.9pts) with no between group differences. CIPN classification according to CTCAE v4 improved significantly in both intervention groups.

Conclusion

Home-based electrotherapy with HTEMS or TENS were successful in improving CIPN-related sensory impairment and could therefore provide a powerful treatment for this side-effect of chemotherapy.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03978585
Mapping the research landscape of microRNAs in pain: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wang Huaiming , Li Qin , Zou Jiang , Shu Jinjun , Zhang Aimin , Zhang Hongwei , Zhao Qi , Liu Shunxin , Chen Chan , Chen Guo
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have demonstrated significant potential in pain medicine research, including mechanisms, diagnosis, and therapy. However, no relative bibliometric analysis has been performed to summarize the progress in this area quantitatively.

Methods

Literature was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection online database. A total of 1,295 papers were retrieved between January 1, 2000 and September 21, 2023 and underwent visualization and analysis using R software [Library [bibliometrix] and biblioshiny packages], VOSviewer (version 1.6.18), CiteSpace software (version 6.2.R4), and the bibliometrics website (http://bibliometric.com).

Results

Publications in this field have increased annually since 2000, demonstrating growing research interest. China emerged as the most productive country, followed by the United States and Germany. Keyword analysis identified “expression,” “neuropathic pain,” and “microRNAs” as the most relevant keywords. Extensive collaboration among countries and institutions was also observed.

Conclusion

The bibliometric analysis revealed a rapid growth of publications related to miRNAs and pain in the past 2 decades. Keywords analysis indicates that “expression,” “neuropathic pain,” and “microRNA” are the most frequently used words in this research field. However, more robust and globally recognized basic studies and clinical trials from prestigious journals are required.
The global, regional, and national alcohol-related colorectal cancer burden and forecasted trends: results from the global burden of disease study 2021
Authors: Yao Jinfeng , Chen Guo
Published: December 2024

Background

The mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing year by year and poses a significant global health burden. Many studies have demonstrated that alcohol consumption is an important risk factor for CRC and is closely associated with malignant metastasis in CRC patients, which in turn leads to a poor prognosis.

Methods

This study aimed to quantify the global, regional, and national burden of alcohol-related CRC between 1990 and 2021. First, numbers and age-standardized rates of deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for alcohol-related CRC in 2021 were analyzed at different levels. Temporal trends in the burden of disease from 1990 to 2021 were analyzed through linear regression models. Finally, both Age-Period-Cohort (APC) models and Bayesian Age-Period-Cohort (BAPC) models were utilized to project the future burden of the disease for 2022–2046.

Results

The global burden of disease for alcohol-related CRC is higher in 2021 compared to 1990. Male and older age groups are at high risk. Disease burden varies very much between Sociodemographic Index (SDI) regions, Global Burden of Disease (GBD) regions and countries. From 1990 to 2021, the number of cases increased, but the Age-Standardized Rate (ASR) decreased. The trends in disease burden predicted by the two models for 2022–2046 were not consistent.

Conclusion

This study describes the burden of disease in alcohol-related CRC and emphasizes that alcohol is a non-negligible risk factor for CRC. In order to mitigate harm, we need to strengthen disease surveillance, early prevention, timely detection, and improved treatment measures, with different approaches and responses for different regions.
Dosimetric investigation of couch rotation angles in non-coplanar VMAT plans for lung cancer SBRT
Authors: Ye Weiqiang , Wang Housheng , Wei Zhenzhen , Zhang Wei , Yu Chaojun , Zhang Dawei , Su Shida , Qin Wen , Hu Kai , Li Bo
Published: December 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effect of couch rotation angles on non-coplanar volumetric modulated arc therapy (ncVMAT) plan for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in lung cancer patients and to evaluate the feasibility of clinically applying ncVMAT for SBRT.

Methods

Twenty-four lung cancer patients with a single lesion eligible for SBRT were enrolled in the study. Seven dual partial-arc VMAT plans with varying couch angles were designed for every patient. These plans utilized two partial arcs, with the same first arc set at a fixed 0° couch angle in all plans. The second arc’s couch angle varies at 15° intervals, ranging from 0° to 90°. The plans are designated as C0, NC15, NC30, NC45, NC60, NC75, and NC90, respectively. Plan evaluation included assessment of the maximum dose (Dmax), the mean dose (Dmean), homogeneity index (HI), conformity index (CI), and the ratio of the 50% isodose volume to the planning target volume (R50%). Dosimetric parameters for organs at risk such as the ipsilateral lung, contralateral lung, bilateral lungs, esophagus, trachea, chest wall, heart, and spinal cord were analyzed. Additionally, plan complexity-related metrics included modulation degree (MD), delivery time (DT), and monitor unit (MU) were assessed.

Results

As the couch rotation angle increased, parameters such as Dmax, Dmean, HI, CI, R50%, V20Gy, V25.75Gy and V30Gy of the ipsilateral lung and bilateral lungs, V10Gy of the contralateral lung and Dmean of the chest wall varied, while MD, MU, and DT increased. Compared to C0, the Dmax, Dmean, and HI of the planning target volume (PTV) decreased from 6728.35 ± 209.56cGy, 5743.04 ± 93.45cGy, and 0.281 ± 0.032 to 6500.48 ± 225.26cGy, 5654.81 ± 109.23cGy, and 0.245 ± 0.031, respectively, when the couch was rotated to 90°. The CI increased from 0.859 ± 0.031 to 0.876 ± 0.024. Decreases in R50% were 1.4%, 4.9%, 9%, 13.5%, 16.8%, and 18.4% for NC15, NC30, NC45, NC60, NC75, and NC90, respectively.

Conclusions

In the treatment of lung cancer using SBRT, ncVMAT plans demonstrate superior dose distribution and deliver lower doses to certain OARs compared to cVMAT plans. This advantage becomes more pronounced with increasing couch rotation angles. Our study offers theoretical support for the preferential use of ncVMAT plans in lung cancer SBRT and provides empirical evidence to guide the selection of optimal couch rotation angles.
Case report: Eczematous adverse drug reaction after selpercatinib treatment
Authors: Li Bingrun , Cao Peng , Xu Wenjing , Zhang Litao
Published: December 2024

This study reports a 50-year-old patient presented with eczematous drug-eruption induced by selpercatinib after the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The patient has symmetric erythematous papules and plaques all over the body with dry, scaly skin accompanied by severe pruritus and visible scarring. After systemic treatment with glucocorticoids, the patient’ skin lesions were reduced well. Currently, the medical literature on the incidence of selpercatinib-induced cutaneous eczematous reactions and their clinical management is scarce. Therefore, this study provides novel evidence for the treatment of selpercatinib-induced cutaneous eczematous reactions.
Case Report: Prenatal ultrasound presentation of congenital melanocytic nevus syndrome
Authors: Shi ZhiH , Sun TingT , Yin Juan , Qiu Shuo , Wang YueM , Leng JunH
Published: December 2024

Congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) syndrome is a rare, non-familial neural ectodermal dysplasia characterized by CMN combined with extracutaneous abnormalities, predominantly involving the central nervous system (CNS). The pathogenesis of CMN syndrome is thought to result from early post-zygotic somatic mutations. CNS melanosis frequently affects the anterior temporal lobes, brainstem, cerebellum, and cerebral cortex. Magnetic resonance imaging typically demonstrates T1 hyperintensity associated with CNS melanosis, while ultrasound often reveals abnormal echogenicity. We report a case of a fetus diagnosed with CMN syndrome, presenting with abnormal echogenicity in the cerebellar and amygdaloid complexes and a posterior fossa cyst. Autopsy identified two melanocytic nevi on the lumbosacral region of the fetus. Reports linking CMN syndrome to fetal intracranial abnormalities remain exceedingly rare.
Carthamus tinctorius L. protects cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury via arachidonic acid/p53-mediated apoptosis axis
Authors: Chen Junren , Wu Liujun , Xie Xiaofang , Peng Cheng
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Stroke is a debilitating disease and the second leading cause of death worldwide, of which ischemic stroke is the dominant type. Carthamus tinctorius L., also known as safflower, has been used to treat cerebrovascular diseases, especially ischemic stroke in many Asian countries. However, the underlying mechanisms of safflower in preventing ischemic stroke remains elusive. This study aims to elucidate the potential of safflower as a drug candidate for the prevention of ischemic stroke and to delineate its protective effects and potential mechanisms in a rat model of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CI/RI).

Methods

The aqueous extract of safflower (AESF) was verified using HPLC-UV, HPLC-MS, and TLC. The inhibitory effect of AESF on platelet aggregation was detected in vitro and in zebrafish and mice. A CI/RI model in rats was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion to study the protective effect of AESF on ischemic stroke. 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride, hematoxylin and eosin, and Nissl’s staining were employed to evaluate the pathological changes of brain tissue. In addition, metabolomics, ELISA, and Western blot were used to uncover the molecular alteration induced by AESF.

Results

AESF significantly inhibited platelet aggregation in vitro, reduced the thrombogenesis in zebrafish, and prolonged clotting time in mice. In addition, AESF alleviated neurological dysfunction, cerebral oedema, cerebral infarct size, cerebral histopathological damage induced by ischemia-reperfusion, improved neuronal survival, increased serum levels of SOD and CAT, and decreased levels of iNOS and NO. Metabolomics revealed that AESF attenuated the metabolic disturbances in brain caused by I/R injury via regulating 38 metabolites particularly related to the arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism. Moreover, AESF elevated the serum levels of 6-keto-PGF1α, a pivotal metabolite of AA, downregulated the protein expression of p53, Bax, cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-8, and upregulated that of Bcl-2.

Conclusion

AESF mitigated CI/RI through preventing platelet aggregation, alleviating oxidative stress, and suppressing apoptosis partially via modulating AA metabolism/p53-mediated apoptosis axis.
Emodin induced hepatic steatosis in BALb/c mice by modulating the gut microbiota composition and fatty acid metabolism
Authors: Xia Xinhua , He Xueling , Huang Jinzhou , Hou Xuyang , Lin Chen , Liu Yaxiong , Liu Mei
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study is to examine the physiological effects of emodin on intestinal microorganisms and the liver in the BALb/c mice.

Method and Results

Following an 8-week administration of emodin at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day,pathological analyses revealed that emodin significantly reduced the colon length, induced colonic crypt inflammation,diminished the colonic mucus layer,and decreased the fluorescence intensity of colonic tight junction proteins ZO-1 and Occludin. Concurrently, 16S rDNA gene sequencing corroborated that emodin altered the diversity and composition of the intestinal microbiota by increasing the Firmicutes to Bacteroides ratio. Simultaneously, the non-targeted metabolomics analyses exhibited significant alternations in both short chain fatty acids and free fatty acids between the emodin-treated and the normal groups, indicating emodin-induced disturbance in intestinal metabolic disorder. Furthermore, emodin exhibited a significant elevation in LPS levels in colon, serum and liver as well an marked increase in the levels of TC, TG, AST, and ALT in serum. Additionally, histological examination employing by HE and oil-red O staining furtherly verified that the administration of varying doses emodin induced hepatic inflammation and lipid accumulation. Whereas qRT-PCR and Western blot analyses demonstrated that the administering of varying doses of emodin upregulated the mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18 as well as the expression of TLR4, Myd88, and P-65. Following the combined administration of probiotics, the high-dose emodin did not significantly influence ALT and AST levels in mice. However, the faeces of the high-dose emodin transplanted in mice and induced a significant increase in AST levels and in the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria.

Discussion

These findings further corroborate that emodin induces liver injury via the intestinal dysfunction. These findings suggested that emodin may disrupt intestinal microbiota and resulted in significant alternations in endogenous metabolites in mice, thereby facilitating the entry of LPS and FFAs into the liver, potentially leading to hepatic injury.
The role of the dorsomedial hypothalamus in the cardiogenic sympathetic reflex in the Sprague Dawley rat
Authors: Zahner Matthew R. , Hillard Kynlee J. , Chandley Michelle C.
Published: December 2024

Myocardial ischemia causes the production and release of metabolites such as bradykinin, which stimulates cardiac spinal sensory afferents, causing chest pain and an increase in sympathetic activity referred to as the cardiogenic sympathetic afferent reflex. While the brain stem nuclei, such as the nucleus tractus solitarius and rostral ventrolateral medulla, are essential in the cardiogenic sympathetic afferent reflex, the role of other supramedullary nuclei in the cardiogenic sympathetic afferent reflex are not clear. The dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH) is involved in cardiovascular sympathetic regulation and plays an important role in the sympathetic response to stressful stimuli. In this study, we determined the role of DMH in the cardiogenic sympathetic afferent reflex. To do this we measured arterial pressure, heart rate, and renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) responses to epicardial bradykinin (10 μg/mL) in anesthetized Sprague Dawley rats before and after bilateral DMH microinjection (50 nL) of either the GABAA agonist muscimol (0.5 nmol) to inhibit or the antagonist bicuculline (40 pmol) to disinhibit activity. Muscimol inhibition elicited a modest, albeit significant, reduction in basal arterial pressure and heart rate and attenuated the arterial pressure and heart rate reflex response to epicardial bradykinin. However, it did not change the magnitude of the reflex. Bicuculline disinhibition of the DMH increased basal arterial pressure, heart rate, and RSNA but did not augment the response to epicardial bradykinin. These results suggest that sympathetic activity derived from the DMH does not play an important role in the cardiogenic sympathetic afferent reflex in Sprague Dawley rats.
Effects of exercise on bone mass and bone metabolism in adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Wenhua , Wang Xiaoqiang , Liu Yurong , He Qiang , Ding Qixin , Mei Jingqi , Li Xun
Published: December 2024

Objective

Meta-analysis was used to evaluate the effects of an exercise intervention on bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD), and bone metabolism in adolescents.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for RCTs on “exercise, adolescents, BMD, bone metabolism” up to 10 September 2024. Included RCTs focused on effects of exercise on BMC, BMD, and bone metabolism in 10–19 years old, with physical activity as exercise group and daily living/primal exercise as control group. Outcome metrics included lumbar spine, femoral neck, whole body BMC and BMD, bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), procollagen type 1N-terminal propeptide (PINP), osteocalcin (OC), and type I collagen carboxy-terminal peptide (CTX). Exclusion criteria included duplicates, non-RCTs, non-adolescent studies, and non-compliance with indicators. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4, and quality assessed by Cochrane’s tool. Effect sizes were estimated using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic to determine fixed or random effects models.

Results

Fifteen articles with a total of 723 subjects were included. The meta-analysis showed that, compared to the control group, (i) exercise was effective in increasing adolescents’ overall BMC (SMD = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.06–0.27, p = 0.003) and BMD (SMD = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.13–0.40, p = 0.0001). (ii) Subgroup analyses showed that exercise significantly increased adolescents’ lumbar spine BMC (SMD = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.01–0.34, p = 0.04), femoral neck BMC (SMD = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.05–0.42, p = 0.01), lumbar spine BMD (SMD = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.12–0.56, p = 0.003) and femoral neck BMD (SMD = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.09–0.53, p = 0.007), whereas there was no statistically significant effect on whole body BMC and BMD (p > 0.05). (iii) Exercise increased BALP, and decreased PINP, OC and CTX in adolescents. but none of the differences between the exercise groups and the control group were significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Exercise is effective in improving overall BMC and BMD in adolescents and elevating BMC and BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Due to the limitation of the number and quality of the included studies, the above conclusions are yet to be validated by more high-quality empirical studies.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, identifier CRD42024593399
Interactions between leaf phenological type and functional traits drive variation in isoprene emissions in central Amazon forest trees
Authors: Robin Michelle , Römermann Christine , Niinemets Ülo , Gershenzon Jonathan , Huang Jianbei , Nelson Bruce W. , Taylor Tyeen C. , de Souza Vinícius Fernandes , Pinho Davieliton , Falcão Lucas , Lacerda Caroline , Duvoisin Júnior Sérgio , Schmidt Axel , Gomes Alves Eliane
Published: December 2024

The Amazon forest is the largest source of isoprene emissions, and the seasonal pattern of leaf-out phenology in this forest has been indicated as an important driver of seasonal variation in emissions. Still, it is unclear how emissions vary between different leaf phenological types in this forest. To evaluate the influence of leaf phenological type over isoprene emissions, we measured leaf-level isoprene emission capacity and leaf functional traits for 175 trees from 124 species of angiosperms distributed among brevideciduous and evergreen trees in a central Amazon forest. Evergreen isoprene emitters were less likely to store monoterpenes and had tougher and less photosynthetically active leaves with higher carbon-to-nitrogen ratios compared to non-emitters. Isoprene emission rates in brevideciduous trees were higher with a higher diversity of stored sesquiterpenes and total phenolics content. Our results suggest that the way isoprene emissions relate to growth and defense traits in central Amazon trees might be influenced by leaf phenological type, and that isoprene may participate in co-regulating a chemical-mechanical defense trade-off between brevideciduous and evergreen trees. Such knowledge can be used to improve emission estimates based on leaf phenological type since, as a highly-emitted biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC), isoprene affects atmospheric processes with implications for the Earth’s radiative balance.
Relational integration/assimilation? A critical dialog with postcolonial and mainstream perspectives
Authors: Polynin Ivan
Published: December 2024

Mainstream studies on integration and assimilation, epitomized by scholars like Richard Alba and Nancy Foner, tend to equate the terms, describing them as processes in which migrants lose their ethnic salience and gradually become barely distinguishable from the white majority. Postcolonial critiques, most notably from Willem Schinkel and Adrian Favell, challenge these views labeling them as methodological nationalism that allegedly perpetuates racial biases and reduces migrants’ agency. Ultimately Schinkel calls for deconstruction of the entire field of migration studies, while Favell advocates for separating integration from the logic of nation state. To rebuild a once-failed dialog between these influential but divergent perspectives, this article utilizes Klarenbeek’s relational integration theory, which argues in favor of balancing egalitarian social relations between majorities and minorities over one-directional integration models that assign migrants the role of passive recipients. Using Klarenbeek’s framework, I offer a critical perspective on both the mainstream tendency to problematize migrants and the radical deconstruction of integration suggested by postcolonial theorists. I argue that both mainstream and postcolonial scholars should move away from methodological whiteness, acknowledge the conceptual distinction between assimilation and integration, and incorporate insights from acculturation theories to foster a much-needed egalitarian dialog between their competing approaches.
Secure Base Leadership in military training: enhancing organizational identification and resilience through work engagement
Authors: Navas-Jiménez María C. , Laguía Ana , Recio Patricia , García-Guiu Carlos , Pastor Alberto , Edú-Valsania Sergio , Molero Fernando , Mikulincer Mario , Moriano Juan A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This study examines the relationships between secure base leadership, organizational identification, and resilience among military cadets, utilizing the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model as a theoretical framework. Specifically, it explores the mediating role of work engagement in these associations within the context of military training.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 363 cadets from the General Military Academy of the Army in Zaragoza, Spain. The sample comprised second-year cadets (n = 170; 46.8%) and third-year cadets (n = 193; 53.2%), with a gender distribution of 84% male and 16% female. Participants evaluated their section chief captains using the Leader as Security Provider Scale and completed validated questionnaires measuring work engagement, organizational identification, and resilience. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the hypothesized relationships and mediation effects.

Results

The findings revealed that secure base leadership is positively associated with work engagement among cadets. Work engagement significantly mediated the relationships between secure base leadership and both organizational identification and resilience. The structural model explained a substantial proportion of variance in the outcome variables, supporting the applicability of the JD-R model in this context.

Discussion

These results underscore the importance of secure base leadership in promoting work engagement, which in turn enhances organizational identification and resilience among military cadets. The study highlights the role of leaders as secure bases in fostering personal and organizational well-being. Implications suggest that incorporating secure base leadership principles in military training programs could contribute to the professional development and overall well-being of military personnel.
What is it like to be a lizard? Directed attention and the flow of sensory experience in lizards and birds
Authors: Irwin Louis N.
Published: December 2024

While the content of subjective (personal) experience is inaccessible to external observers, behavioral proxies can frame the nature of that experience and suggest its cognitive requirements. Directed attention is widely recognized as a feature of animal awareness. This descriptive study used the frequency of gaze shifts in lizards and birds as an indicator of the rate at which the animals change the perceptual segmentation of their ongoing experience. Most lizards are solitary, with social interactions limited to territorial defense and mating. Many are sit-and-wait insectivores that intersperse active foraging with long periods of sedentary activity. Others actively seek encounters with prey, either randomly (teiids) or through strategies indicative of intelligent planning (varanids). Birds typically change the direction of their attention five times faster than lizards while displaying more behavioral complexity and variety. A number of interspecies differences among both lizards and birds were observed in this study, consistent with the view that subjective experience varies uniquely across lifestyles, ecology, and phylogeny. These differences constitute variations in the structure of perceptual experience and could serve as probes for investigating neural correlates of animal consciousness.
Examining the effects of psychological resilience and wellbeing on perceived stress and depressive symptoms among undergraduate nursing interns: testing a moderated mediation model
Authors: Yan Miaomiao , Zhang Lijuan , Qin Dan , Zhou Zhongtao , Wu Yigao , Hou Nuoyu , Tao Xiubin
Published: December 2024

Background

Perceived stress is recognized as a significant risk factor for depressive symptoms, while psychological resilience and wellbeing are considered crucial protective factors. However, the intricate relationships among these variables in undergraduate nursing interns remain largely unexplored. This study aims to investigate the mediating role of psychological resilience in the relationship between perceived stress and depressive symptoms, as well as the moderating influence of wellbeing on this mediation.

Methods

From March 1 to 31, 2024, a cluster sampling survey was conducted to examine senior nursing undergraduates from a medical college in Anhui Province who were engaged in clinical practice at various hospitals. The surveyed hospitals were all Grade III, and Class A teaching institutions situated in Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai, and other provinces. According to the Lewinsohn behavioral theory of depression, the study measured perceived stress, depressive symptoms, wellbeing, and psychological resilience using the Chinese Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS), Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ), and the Chinese version of the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10). The PROCESS v4.0 macro was utilized to evaluate the mediating role of psychological resilience and the moderating role of wellbeing.

Results

A total of 299 valid samples were included. Perceived stress, depressive symptoms, psychological resilience, and wellbeing were significantly correlated. Psychological resilience partially mediated the relationship between perceived stress and depressive symptoms [indirect effect = 0.111, 95% Boot CI (0.065, 0.162)]. Wellbeing also moderated the relationship between psychological resilience and depressive symptoms [B = 0.007, 95% Boot CI (0.003, 0.011)].

Conclusion

The mental health of undergraduate nursing interns warrants attention. To reduce perceived stress and depressive symptoms, interventions should focus on enhancing psychological resilience and wellbeing among these interns.
Prevalence of cognitive impairment and its related factors among Chinese older adults: an analysis based on the 2018 CHARLS data
Authors: Wu Xueqin , Tang Yufu , He Yushan , Wang Qiwei , Wang Yinhui , Qin Xiujun
Published: December 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment is a major public health concern in aging societies. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of cognitive impairment and its associated factors among Chinese adults aged 60 years and older using data from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).

Methods

Utilizing data from the 2018 wave of CHARLS, we assessed participants’ cognitive status using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the influencing factors related to cognitive impairment were analyzed by using the chi-square test and multifactor logistic regression. The prevalence of cognitive impairment was stratified by gender, education level, residence, marital status, daytime napping, and nighttime sleep duration, and the trend of cognitive impairment prevalence with age was observed.

Results

9,804 participants were finally included in the study and the overall prevalence of cognitive impairment was 44.04% (95%CI, 43.02–45.06%). The prevalence was significantly higher in females (50.8%) than males (37.1%), and increased with age, from 41.5% in those aged 60–64 years to 57.7% in those aged ≥75 years. Lower educational level, rural residence, and being divorced/ widowed/unmarried were associated with a higher prevalence of cognitive impairment (all p < 0.001). Multifactor logistic regression indicated that older age (OR = 1.51, 95%CI, 1.33–1.73 for ≥75 vs. 60–64 years), female gender (OR = 1.54, 95%CI, 1.35–1.77), higher education (OR = 0.46, 95%CI, 0.42–0.51 for primary school and below vs. illiteracy), rural areas (OR = 2.35, 95%CI, 2.07–2.65 for village vs. the center of city/town), divorced/ widowed/unmarried status (OR = 1.40, 95%CI, 1.25–1.57) and participation in physical activity (OR = 0.80, 95%CI, 0.73–0.87) were significantly associated with cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent among older adults in China with substantial demographic disparities. Targeted interventions and public health strategies are needed to promote cognitive health in this rapidly aging population.
Critical appraisal and narrative review of the literature in IVF/ICSI patients with adenomyosis and endometriosis
Authors: Mercan Ramazan , Benlioglu Can , Aksakal Gulumser Ece
Published: December 2024

Endometriosis and adenomyosis are prevalent causes of infertility, often coexisting in a significant proportion of patients. Although endometriosis typically does not negatively impact assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes, the presence of coexisting adenomyosis, mainly non-severe external forms, may slightly influence IVF/ICSI success rates. However, this impact is often minimal and may result in insignificant changes in statistical analyses. Recent studies underscore the critical role of accurate diagnostic techniques, such as ultrasound or MRI, in identifying severe adenomyosis characteristics, including diffuse involvement with junctional zone participation. This precise delineation is reassuring, as it is essential for tailoring assisted reproductive technology (ART) strategies to enhance success rates and reduce the confounding effects of adenomyosis, particularly when it coexists with endometriosis. Strategic approaches, such as ultralong GnRH agonist protocols or freeze-all strategies, may provide advantages in these scenarios. However, the need for extensive research is vital to understanding the complex interactions between endometriosis, adenomyosis, and ART outcomes. This ongoing exploration is particularly important in cases where coexisting adenomyosis might not significantly influence statistical results.