bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expectant treatment for angular pregnancy after assisted reproduction technology: a safe and patient-friendly treatment strategy
Authors: Yang Peiwen , Shen Lin , Ai Jihui , Zhao Yiqing
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Currently, the treatment strategies for angular pregnancy in the first trimester after assisted reproduction technology (ART) are unclear. Improper treatment will cause unnecessary losses to patients, especially infertile patients, after ART. The purpose of this study was to clarify the pregnancy outcomes of expectant treatment for angular pregnancy post-ART and to provide a basis for the formulation of clinical treatment strategies.

Method

This retrospective case series study was performed at the Reproductive Medicine Center of a university hospital. Maternal data and pregnancy outcomes were collected and analyzed for all patients diagnosed with angular pregnancies after ART between January 2016 and August 2021. The outcomes included live birth, term birth, premature birth, early pregnancy loss, fetal death, placental abruption, uterine rupture, maternal death, and hysterectomy.

Results

A total of 78 patients were analyzed in this study, of whom 54 (69.2%) had live births, 44 (56.4%) had term births, 21 (26.9%) had an early pregnancy loss, 1 (1.3%) had mid-trimester missed abortion, 1 (1.3%) underwent mid-trimester labor induction due to fetal malformation, and 1 (1.3%) underwent uterine rupture. There were no cases of maternal death, placental abruption, or hysterectomies.

Discussion

Angular pregnancy after ART is not as dangerous as that described in previous studies; most cases could be treated expectantly under close-interval follow-up and obtain live birth.
The impact of phosphodiesterase inhibition on neurobehavioral outcomes in preclinical models of traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury: a systematic review
Authors: Butler Max B. , Vellaiyappan Sundar K. , Bhatti Faheem , Syed Fazal-E-Momin , Rafati Fard Amir , Teh Jye Quan , Grodzinski Ben , Akhbari Melika , Adeeko Sylva , Dilworth Rory , Bhatti Aniqah , Waheed Unaiza , Robinson Sophie , Osunronbi Temidayo , Walker Benn , Ottewell Luke , Suresh Gayathri , Kuhn Isla , Davies Benjamin M. , Kotter Mark R. N. , Mowforth Oliver D.
Published: August 2023

Study design

Systematic review.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors on neurobehavioral outcomes in preclinical models of traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019150639). Searches were performed in MEDLINE and Embase. Studies were included if they evaluated the impact of PDE inhibitors on neurobehavioral outcomes in preclinical models of traumatic or non-traumatic SCI. Data were extracted from relevant studies, including sample characteristics, injury model, and neurobehavioral assessment and outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE checklist.

Results

The search yielded a total of 1,679 studies, of which 22 met inclusion criteria. Sample sizes ranged from 11 to 144 animals. PDE inhibitors used include rolipram (n = 16), cilostazol (n = 4), roflumilast (n = 1), and PDE4-I (n = 1). The injury models used were traumatic SCI (n = 18), spinal cord ischemia (n = 3), and degenerative cervical myelopathy (n = 1). The most commonly assessed outcome measures were Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor score (n = 13), and grid walking (n = 7). Of the 22 papers that met the final inclusion criteria, 12 showed a significant improvement in neurobehavioral outcomes following the use of PDE inhibitors, four papers had mixed findings and six found PDE inhibitors to be ineffective in improving neurobehavioral recovery following an SCI. Notably, these findings were broadly consistent across different PDE inhibitors and spinal cord injury models.

Conclusion

In preclinical models of traumatic and non-traumatic SCI, the administration of PDE inhibitors appeared to be associated with statistically significant improvements in neurobehavioral outcomes in a majority of included studies. However, the evidence was inconsistent with a high risk of bias. This review provides a foundation to aid the interpretation of subsequent clinical trials of PDE inhibitors in spinal cord injury.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=150639, identifier: CRD42019150639.
Genetic variation and recombination analysis of the GP5 (GP5a) gene of PRRSV-2 strains in China from 1996 to 2022
Authors: Luo Qin , Zheng Yajie , He Yingxin , Li Gan , Zhang Hang , Sha Huiyang , Zhang Zhiqing , Huang Liangzong , Zhao Mengmeng
Published: August 2023

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) has been prevalent in China for more than 25 years and remains one of the most significant pathogens threatening the pig industry. The high rate of mutation and frequent recombination of PRRSV have exacerbated its prevalence, particularly with the emergence of highly pathogenic PRRSV (HP-PRRSV) has significantly increased the pathogenicity of PRRSV, posing a serious threat to the development of Chinese pig farming. To monitor the genetic variation of PRRSV-2 in China, the GP5 sequences of 517 PRRSV-2 strains from 1996 to 2022 were analyzed and phylogenetic trees were constructed. Furthermore, a total of 60 PRRSV strains, originating from various lineages, were carefully chosen for nucleotide and amino acid homologies analysis. The results showed that the nucleotide homologies of the PRRSV GP5 gene ranged from 81.4 to 100.0%, and the amino acid homologies ranged from 78.1 to 100.0%. Similarly, the PRRSV GP5a gene showed 78.0 ~ 100.0% nucleotide homologies and 70.2 ~ 100.0% amino acid homologies. Amino acid sequence comparisons of GP5 and GP5a showed that some mutations, such as substitutions, deletions, and insertions, were found in several amino acid sites in GP5, these mutations were primarily found in the signal peptide region, two highly variable regions (HVRs), and near two T-cell antigenic sites, while the mutation sites of GP5a were mainly concentrated in the transmembrane and intramembrane regions. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the prevalent PRRSV-2 strains in China were divided into lineages 1, 3, 5, and 8. Among these, strains from lineage 8 and lineage 1 are currently the main prevalent strains, lineage 5 and lineage 8 have a closer genetic distance. Recombination analysis revealed that one recombination event occurred in 517 PRRSV-2 strains, this event involved recombination between lineage 8 and lineage 1. In conclusion, this analysis enhances our understanding of the prevalence and genetic variation of PRRSV-2 in China. These findings provide significant insights for the development of effective prevention and control strategies for PRRS and serve as a foundation for future research in this field.
Investigating the effects of the aging brain on real tool use performance—an fMRI study
Authors: Seifert Clara , Zhao Jingkang , Brandi Marie-Luise , Kampe Thabea , Hermsdörfer Joachim , Wohlschläger Afra
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Healthy aging affects several domains of cognitive and motor performance and is further associated with multiple structural and functional neural reorganization patterns. However, gap of knowledge exists, referring to the impact of these age-related alterations on the neural basis of tool use–an important, complex action involved in everyday life throughout the entire lifespan. The current fMRI study aims to investigate age-related changes of neural correlates involved in planning and executing a complex object manipulation task, further providing a better understanding of impaired tool use performance in apraxia patients.

Methods

A balanced number of sixteen older and younger healthy adults repeatedly manipulated everyday tools in an event-related Go-No-Go fMRI paradigm.

Results

Our data indicates that the left-lateralized network, including widely distributed frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital regions, involved in tool use performance is not subjected to age-related functional reorganization processes. However, age-related changes regarding the applied strategical procedure can be detected, indicating stronger investment into the planning, preparatory phase of such an action in older participants.
Sleep duration and age-related macular degeneration: a cross-sectional and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lei Shizhen , Liu Zhouyang , Li Haihui
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To investigate the association between sleep duration and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Design

Cross-sectional study, bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). For cross-sectional analysis, we used survey data of 5,481 participants aged ≥40 years from the 2005 to 2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). For MR analysis, we used sleep- and AMD-associated genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data involving large populations.

Methods

The association between sleep duration and AMD was assessed using logistic regression models. For MR analysis, the primary approach for MR analysis was the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method.

Results

In cross-sectional analysis, after adjusting for multiple covariates, short sleep duration (SSD) was found to be associated with increased risk of early AMD [odds ratio (OR) = 1.364, P = 0.036). MR analysis supported the results of cross-sectional analysis: SSD increases the risk of early AMD (β = 0.102, IVW-P = 0.003).

Conclusion

Our findings provide the evidence supporting the association between sleep deficiency and higher risk of AMD. Further studies are required to confirm our findings and elucidate the mechanisms underlying this association.
Functional brain activity in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment: an rs-fMRI study
Authors: Yue Jinhuan , Han Sheng-wang , Liu Xiao , Wang Song , Zhao Wei-wei , Cai Li-na , Cao Dan-na , Mah Jeffrey Zhongxue , Hou Yu , Cui Xuan , Wang Yang , Chen Li , Li Ang , Li Xiao-ling , Yang Guanhu , Zhang Qinhong
Published: August 2023

Background

Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is an early stage of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Regional homogeneity (ReHo) and amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) are employed to explore spontaneous brain function in patients with aMCI. This study applied ALFF and ReHo indicators to analyze the neural mechanism of aMCI by resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI).

Methods

Twenty-six patients with aMCI were included and assigned to the aMCI group. The other 26 healthy subjects were included as a healthy control (HC) group. Rs-fMRI was performed for all participants in both groups. Between-group comparisons of demographic data and neuropsychological scores were analyzed using SPSS 25.0. Functional imaging data were analyzed using DPARSF and SPM12 software based on MATLAB 2017a. Gender, age, and years of education were used as covariates to obtain ALFF and ReHo indices.

Results

Compared with HC group, ALFF decreased in the left fusiform gyrus, left superior temporal gyrus, and increased in the left cerebellum 8, left inferior temporal gyrus, left superior frontal gyrus (BA11), and right inferior temporal gyrus (BA20) in the aMCI group (p < 0.05, FWE correction). In addition, ReHo decreased in the right middle temporal gyrus and right anterior cuneiform lobe, while it increased in the left middle temporal gyrus, left inferior temporal gyrus, cerebellar vermis, right parahippocampal gyrus, left caudate nucleus, right thalamus, and left superior frontal gyrus (BA6) (p < 0.05, FWE correction). In the aMCI group, the ALFF of the left superior frontal gyrus was negatively correlated with Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score (r = −0.437, p = 0.026), and the ALFF of the left superior temporal gyrus was positively correlated with the MoCA score (r = 0.550, p = 0.004). The ReHo of the right hippocampus was negatively correlated with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score (r = −0.434, p = 0.027), and the ReHo of the right middle temporal gyrus was positively correlated with MMSE score (r = 0.392, p = 0.048).

Conclusion

Functional changes in multiple brain regions rather than in a single brain region have been observed in patients with aMCI. The abnormal activity of multiple specific brain regions may be a manifestation of impaired central function in patients with aMCI.
An effective fusion model for seizure prediction: GAMRNN
Authors: Ji Hong , Xu Ting , Xue Tao , Xu Tao , Yan Zhiqiang , Liu Yonghong , Chen Badong , Jiang Wen
Published: August 2023

The early prediction of epileptic seizures holds paramount significance in patient care and medical research. Extracting useful spatial-temporal features to facilitate seizure prediction represents a primary challenge in this field. This study proposes GAMRNN, a novel methodology integrating a dual-layer gated recurrent unit (GRU) model with a convolutional attention module. GAMRNN aims to capture intricate spatial-temporal characteristics by highlighting informative feature channels and spatial pattern dynamics. We employ the Lion optimization algorithm to enhance the model's generalization capability and predictive accuracy. Our evaluation of GAMRNN on the widely utilized CHB-MIT EEG dataset demonstrates its effectiveness in seizure prediction. The results include an impressive average classification accuracy of 91.73%, sensitivity of 88.09%, specificity of 92.09%, and a low false positive rate of 0.053/h. Notably, GAMRNN enables early seizure prediction with a lead time ranging from 5 to 35 min, exhibiting remarkable performance improvements compared to similar prediction models.
High serum mannose in colorectal cancer: a novel biomarker of lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis
Authors: Wang Xueling , Li Haoran , Chang Xiaotian , Tian Zibin
Published: August 2023

Background

Lymph node status is an important prognostic indicator and it significantly influences treatment decisions for colorectal cancer (CRC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of serum monosaccharides in predicting lymph node metastasis (LNM) and prognosis.

Methods

High performance anion exchange chromatography coupled with pulsed amperometric detector (HPAEC-PAD) was used to quantify serum monosaccharides from 252 CRC patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate predictive performance of parameters. Predictors of LNM were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses. The prognostic role of the factors was evaluated by survival analysis.

Results

The levels of serum mannose (Man) and galactose (Gal) were significantly increased in patients with LNM (p <0.0001, p =0.0017, respectively). The area under the curves (AUCs) of Man was 0.8140, which was higher than carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) (AUC =0.6523). Univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated histologic grade (G3) (odds ratio [OR] =2.60, p =0.043), histologic grade (mucin-producing subtype) (odds ratio [OR] =3.38, p =0.032), lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (OR =2.42, p <0.01), CEA (>5ng/ml) (OR =1.85, p =0.042) and high Man (OR =2.65, p =0.006) to be independent risk factors of LNM. The survival analysis showed that the high serum Man was independent risk factor for poor prognosis in CRC patients (HR=1.75, p =0.004).

Conclusions

The Man is superior to CEA in prediction of LNM for CRC patients. Man is expected to be a predictor for LNM in CRC. High serum Man is associated with poor prognosis of CRC patients.
Metabolic reprogramming of three major nutrients in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer
Authors: Yan Jinbowen , Xu Fangzhi , Zhou Dan , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Bo , Meng Qingwei , Lv Qiubo
Published: August 2023

Metabolic reprogramming is a phenomenon in which cancer cells alter their metabolic pathways to support their uncontrolled growth and survival. Platinum-based chemotherapy resistance is associated with changes in glucose metabolism, amino acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and tricarboxylic acid cycle. These changes lead to the creation of metabolic intermediates that can provide precursors for the biosynthesis of cellular components and help maintain cellular energy homeostasis. This article reviews the research progress of the metabolic reprogramming mechanism of platinumbased chemotherapy resistance caused by three major nutrients in ovarian cancer.
The identification of tumor antigens and immune subtypes based on the development of immunotherapies targeting head and neck squamous cell carcinomas resulting from periodontal disease
Authors: Fu Yangju , Zheng Yongbo
Published: August 2023

Among cancer treatments, immunotherapy is considered a promising strategy. Nonetheless, only a small number of individuals with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma exhibit positive responses to immunotherapy. This study aims to discover possible antigens for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, create an mRNA vaccine for this type of cancer, investigate the connection between head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and periodontal disease, and determine the immune subtype of cells affected by head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. To ascertain gene expression profiles and clinical data corresponding to them, an examination was carried out on the TCGA database. Antigen-presenting cells were detected using TIMER. Targeting six immune-related genes (CXCL5, ADM, FGF9, AIMP1, STC1, and CDKN2A) in individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma has shown promising results in immunotherapy triggered by periodontal disease. These genes have been linked to improved prognosis and increased immune cell infiltration. Additionally, CXCL5, ADM, FGF9, AIMP1, STC1, and CDKN2A exhibited potential as antigens in the creation of an mRNA vaccine. A nomogram model containing ADM expression and tumor stage was constructed for clinical practice. To summarize, ADM shows potential as a candidate biomarker for predicting the prognosis, molecular features, and immune characteristics of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells. Our results, obtained through real-time PCR analysis, showed a significant upregulation of ADM in the SCC-25 cell line compared to the NOK-SI cell line. This suggests that ADM might be implicated in the pathogenesis of HNSC, highlighting the potential of ADM as a target in HNSC treatment. However, further research is needed to elucidate the functional role of ADM in HNSC. Our findings provide a basis for the further exploration of the molecular mechanisms underlying HNSC and could help develop novel therapeutic strategies.
Efficacy of modified kidner procedure combined with subtalar arthroereisis treating adolescent type 2 painful accessory navicular with flexible flatfoot
Authors: Fang Ke , Bi Ting , Hong Ao , Li Xin , Gong Haoli , Li Bo , Li Fanling , Wen Jie , Xiao Sheng
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To investigate the clinical efficacy of modified kidner procedure combined with subtalar arthroereisis in the treatment of adolescent type II painful accessory navicular with flexible flatfoot.

Methods

From January 2018 to January 2022, 25 adolescent patients (40 feet) with painful type II accessory navicular and flexible flatfoot admitted to our hospital were enrolled in the study, including 13 males (23 feet) and 12 females (17 feet). All patients underwent modified kidner procedure combined with subtalar joint arthrodesis. The Meary's Angle, the first metatarsal Angle of talus (APTMT), the second metatarsal Angle of talus, Pitch Angle, talus tilt Angle, talonavicular coverage Angle (TCA), talus calcaneal Angle (LTCA), and calcaneal Angle were measured on weight-bearing anteroposterior and lateral x-ray films before operation and at last follow-up. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot score and visual analogue scale (VAS) were used to evaluate the improvement of foot function and pain.

Results

All patients were followed up for average 17.4 ± 2.6 months (12–24). The incisions of 25 patients healed by first intention. The weight-bearing anteroposterior and lateral x-ray films of the foot showed that the suture anchors did not pull out or break, and the foot arch did not collapse further. There was no screw withdrawal or secondary operation to remove the screw in all patients. At the last follow-up, the postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score of the affected foot was significantly lower than that before operation (P < 0.01), and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) foot function score was significantly higher than that before operation (P < 0.01). At the last follow-up, the weight-bearing anteroposterior and lateral foot x-ray films showed that: The Meary's Angle, the first metatarsal Angle of the talus (APTMT), the second metatarsal Angle of the talus, Pitch Angle, talar tilt Angle, talonavicular overbite Angle (TCA), talocalcaneal Angle (LTCA), and calcaneal Angle significantly improved when compared with those before operation (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The modified kidner procedure combined with subtalar arthroereisis has a good clinical effect in the treatment of adolescent type II painful accessory navicular with flexible flatfoot, which can effectively improve the pain symptoms, improve the foot function and imaging manifestations, and correct the flatfoot deformity.
Are teachers “butter lamps”? Teacher stress in Chinese Minzu “ethnic” schools
Authors: Sude Bilige , Dervin Fred , Yuan Mei , Chen Ning
Published: August 2023

China is a unified multi-ethnic country. Although research on teacher stress is plentiful in this context, the specific case of Minzu (“ethnic”) teachers is under-researched. Using Minzu schools located in a diverse county of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (North China), as a case study, the authors examine factors behind Minzu teacher stress. Using mixed methods, three main results were identified by analyzing interviews and questionnaires with both the software NVivo and dialogical discourse analysis: societal, school and Self factors. In general, the teachers confirmed that their job was extremely stressful. While some of these aspects derived directly from the specific context of Minzu education (e.g., rural and pastoralist families send their children to towns leading to teachers taking over parents’ responsibilities), some elements were also found in other contexts of Chinese education and/or internationally. The article ends with some recommendations specifically about Minzu aspects in the treatment of teacher stress, which will also be of interest for international audiences.
A time with e-Natureza (e-Nature): a model of nature-based health interventions as a complex adaptive system
Authors: Leão Eliseth Ribeiro , Hingst-Zaher Erika , Savieto Roberta Maria , Patricio Karina Pavão , de Oliveira Leticia Bernardes , Catissi Giulia , Lima Luciano Moreira , Borba Gustavo Benvenutti , Bomfim Sabrina Bortolossi , de Abreu Floriana Bertini
Published: August 2023

Discussions surrounding the positive impacts of nature on human health and strategies to enhance our connection with the natural world have been ongoing. However, a limited number of theoretical models are available to guide research and practice in this area. Therefore, there is a pressing need for a systematic framework that outlines clear steps for conducting research implementing nature-based interventions. In this study, we investigate the relationship between health and nature through the lens of Complex Adaptive Systems. This approach involves examining the dynamic interactions between multiple interconnected elements to understand the complex emergent behaviors that arise from such relationships. Our model is designed to support nature-based interventions, considering the essential interdependence between humans and nature. This perspective aims to improve both human health and biodiversity conservation in a mutually beneficial manner. The underlying interactions that drive nature-based health interventions are thoroughly explored, leading us to propose a novel intervention model named “A time with e-Natureza” (e-Nature). This model encompasses four types of experiences, drawing from scientific literature and insights from authors engaged in an interdisciplinary research group: (1) Aesthetic and emotional experience; (2) Multisensory integration experience; (3) Knowledge experience; and (4) Engagement experience. Each experience within the model targets affective, cognitive, and behavioral aspects, with a specific focus on fostering a deeper connection with nature. Distinct activities are incorporated within each experience to promote successful outcomes. The model is grounded in existing theories that address the human-nature relationship and is informed by Nursing theories that support health promotion interventions. By presenting this new model, our aim is to contribute to the effective implementation of nature-based interventions that not only enhance human well-being but also support the conservation of nature. This integrated approach recognizes the mutual benefits of human-nature interaction and offers valuable insights for future research and practical applications in the fields of nature and health.
An empirical study of the use of neuroscience in sentencing in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Alimardani Armin
Published: August 2023

While neuroscience has been used in Australian courts for the past 40 years, no systematic empirical study has been conducted into how neuroscientific evidence is used in courts. This study provides a systematic review on how neuroscientific evidence is considered in sentencing decisions of New South Wales criminal courts. A comprehensive and systematic search was conducted on three databases. From this search, 331 relevant sentencing decisions before 2016 that discussed neuroscientific evidence were examined. The findings of this study suggest that neuroscientific evidence appeared to contribute to sentencing decisions in less than half of the cases examined; and in the majority of these, it supported a more lenient sentence.
Abnormal attentional bias in individuals with suicidal ideation during an emotional Stroop task: an event-related potential study
Authors: Sun Yiwei , Duan Moxin , An Li , Liu Shuang , Ming Dong
Published: August 2023

Introduction

There is increasing evidence that suicidal individuals exhibit an attentional bias toward negative or suicide-related stimuli, but the underlying neural mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the neural mechanism of attentional bias toward emotional stimuli using a modified emotional Stroop task (EST) and to further explore the influencing factor of abnormal attention processing by identifying whether mental disorders or suicidal ideation contributes to attention processing disruptions.

Methods

Fourteen students with suicidal ideation and mental disorders (SIMDs), sixteen students with suicidal ideation but no mental disorders (SINMDs), and fourteen sex- and age-matched healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Moreover, 64-channel electroencephalography (EEG) data and behavioral responses were recorded simultaneously during the EST. Participants were instructed to respond to the ink color for various types of words (positive, neutral, negative, and suicide) while ignoring their meanings. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were analyzed to evaluate attention to the stimuli. Spearman correlations between clinical psychological assessment scales and ERP signatures were analyzed to determine the risk factors for suicide.

Results

The results showed that the SIMD group exhibited longer early posterior negativity (EPN) latency compared to the SINMD and HC groups, indicating that early attention processing was affected during the EST, and the automatic and rapid processing of emotional information decreased. Furthermore, P300 latency for positive words was positively correlated with current suicidal ideation in the SINMD group, suggesting that delayed responses or additional processing to positive information may lead individuals with suicidal ideation to an incorrect interpretation of external events.

Conclusions

Generally, our findings suggest that the neural characteristics of the SIMD group differed from those of the SINMD and HC groups. EPN latency and P300 latency during the EST may be suicide-related neurophysiological indicators. These results provide neurophysiological signatures of suicidal behavior.
Network analysis of cold cognition and depression in middle-aged and elder population: the moderation of grandparenting
Authors: Yuan Dongling , Wu Jialing , Li Shansi , Zhang Ruoyi , Zhou Xiao , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2023

Background

Cognitive decline and negative emotions are common in aging, especially decline in cold cognition which often co-occurred with depression in middle-aged and older adults. This study analyzed the interactions between cold cognition and depression in the middle-aged and elder populations using network analysis and explored the effects of grandparenting on the cold cognition-depression network.

Methods

The data of 6,900 individuals (≥ 45 years) from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) were used. The Minimum Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Epidemiology Research Center Depression Scale-10 (CESD-10) were used to assess cold cognition and depressive symptoms, respectively. Centrality indices and bridge centrality indices were used to identify central nodes and bridge nodes, respectively.

Results

Network analysis showed that nodes “language ability” and “depressed mood” were more central nodes in the network of cold cognition and depression in all participants. Meantime, nodes “attention,” “language ability” and “hopeless” were three key bridge nodes connecting cold cognition and depressive symptoms. Additionally, the global connectivity of the cold cognition and depression network was stronger in the non-grandparenting than the grandparenting.

Conclusion

The findings shed a light on the complex interactions between cold cognition and depression in the middle-aged and elder populations. Decline in language ability and depressed mood can serve as predictors for the emergence of cold cognitive dysfunction and depression in individuals during aging. Attention, language ability and hopelessness are potential targets for psychosocial interventions. Furthermore, grandparenting is effective in alleviating cold cognitive dysfunction and depression that occur during individual aging.
Sex difference and immunosenescence affect transplantation outcomes
Authors: Maenosono Ryoichi
Published: August 2023

Kidney transplantation is a well-established alternative to renal replacement therapy. Although the number of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is increasing, the availability of kidney for transplantation is still insufficient to meet the needs. As age increases, the prevalence of ESRD increases; thus, the population of aged donors and recipients occupies large proportion. Accumulated senescent cells secrete pro-inflammatory factors and induce senescence. Additionally, it is gradually becoming clear that biological sex differences can influence aging and cause differences in senescence. Here, we review whether age-related sex differences affect organ transplant outcomes and what should be done in the future.
Lichen Nitidus: A Case of Tiny, Shiny, Skin Bumps
Authors: Kimball Kelly , Damsky William , Richmond Jillian M.
Published: August 2023

Many skin conditions are dangerous, and some can even be life threatening. However, there are also many skin conditions that are not physically harmful but can negatively impact a person’s thoughts, feelings, or self-confidence. In this article, we discuss one of those skin conditions, called lichen nitidus. This condition is more common in kids and young adults. When people have lichen nitidus, they develop many small, shiny, smooth bumps on their bodies. These bumps can sometimes be itchy. Often, doctors do not know why people develop this disease. Although there is no cure for lichen nitidus, the good news is that it tends to go away on its own, without any treatments.
Can golfers choose low-risk routes in steep putting based on visual feedback of ball trajectory?
Authors: Hasegawa Yumiko , Okada Ayako , Fujii Keisuke
Published: August 2023

This study aims to clarify why the aiming method in golf putting in risky situations differs based on skill level. This study set up a difficult challenge (steep slopes and fast ball rolling greens), which required even professional golfers to change their aim. A total of 12 tour professionals and 12 intermediate amateurs were asked to perform a steep-slope task with no visual feedback of outcomes (no FB) followed by a task with visual feedback (with FB). The aim of the task was for the ball to enter the hole in one shot. Additionally, the participants were told that if the ball did not enter the hole, it was to at least stop as close to it as possible. The participant's aim (as an angle) and the kinematics of the putter head and ball were measured. The results indicated that professionals' highest ball trajectory points were significantly higher than that of amateurs, especially with FB. Additionally, professionals had higher ball-launch angles (the direction of the ball when the line connecting the ball and the center of the hole is 0 degrees) and lower peak putter head velocities than amateurs. Furthermore, the aim angle, indicating the golfer's decision-making, was higher for professionals under both conditions. However, even with FB, the amateurs' aim angles were lower and the difference between trials was smaller than that of professionals. Therefore, this study confirmed that the professionals made more drastic changes to their aim to find low-risk routes than the amateurs and that the amateurs’ ability to adjust their aim was lower than that of professionals. The results suggest that the reason for the amateurs' inability to find low-risk routes lies in their decision-making. The professionals found better routes; however, there were individual differences in their routes.
Oncological and surgical outcomes of radical surgery in elderly colorectal cancer patients with intestinal obstruction
Authors: Ma Qingbiao , Li Hongyu , Jiang Yujuan , Wang Yingfei , Liang Jianwei
Published: August 2023

Background

The treatment strategy for elderly colorectal cancer patients with intestinal obstruction remains controversial. The choice of reasonable treatment and surgical method directly affects perioperative safety and prognosis. This study investigated the safety and long-term efficacy of radical surgery in elderly colorectal cancer patients over 80 years old with intestinal obstruction.

Methods

The clinicopathological data of elderly patients over 80 years old with intestinal obstruction who underwent colorectal cancer surgery from January 2012 to December 2021 were retrospectively collected and analysed. Patients were assigned to a radical group and a palliative group according to the surgical method. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to match patients in the radical group 1:1 with those in the palliative group. The perioperative-related indexes and prognosis were compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 187 patients were enrolled in this study. After PSM, 58 matched pairs were selected, and the radical and palliative groups were well balanced in terms of the clinical and surgical characteristics (P > 0.05). The proportion of patients transferred to the ICU after surgery in the radical group was significantly higher than that in the palliative group (17.2% vs. 5.2%, P = 0.039). In terms of postoperative complications, the incidence of grade 1–5 complications in the radical group was significantly higher than that in the palliative group (37.9% vs. 15.5%, P = 0.006); however, there was no significant difference in the incidence of grade 3–5 complications between the two groups (6.9% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.364). In addition, the complications were subclassified, and it was found that the incidence of gastrointestinal disorders (20.7% vs. 6.9%, P = 0.031) after surgery was significantly higher in the radical group. The 3-year OS rates were 55.2% and 22.6% in the radical and palliative groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that radical surgery was an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR: 4.32; 95% CI, 1.93–12.45; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Although elderly colorectal cancer patients over 80 years of age with intestinal obstruction are more likely to be admitted to the ICU and develop more postoperative complications after radical surgery, long-term survival benefits can be achieved.
Genotypic Comparison of Pasteurella multocida from Healthy Animals at Entry to the Feedlots with That and from Bovine Respiratory Disease-Affected Animals during the Fattening Period
Authors: Calderón Bernal Johan Manuel , Serna Carlos , García Muñoz Ángel , Díez Guerrier Alberto , Domínguez Lucas , Fernández-Garayzábal José Francisco , Vela Ana Isabel , Cid Dolores
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible genotypic differences between commensal Pasteurella multocida isolates from apparently healthy animals (AHA) at the time of entry to feedlots and those from BRD-affected animals (BRD-AA). A total of 20 batches of beef calves in seven feedlots were followed-up during the fattening period. P. multocida was isolated from 28.1% of AHA and 22.9% of BRD-AA. All isolates belonged to the A: L3 genotype. Most isolates from clinical cases (81.0%) grouped into a PFGE cluster were significantly associated with BRD cases (OR, 24.9; 95% CI, 6.4–96.2). The whole genomes of 14 isolates representative of the pulsotypes most frequently detected in BRD-AA and AHA were sequenced and compared with 53 bovine genomes belonging to the identified ST13, ST79, and ST80 genotypes for a global comparison. No differences were found in the virulence-associated gene content between sequence types (STs) globally or between BRD-AA and AHA isolates in this study. Significantly, ST79 isolates harbored ARGs, conferring resistance to different antimicrobials, including macrolides and tetracyclines, which are commonly used for the treatment of BRD. Two Spanish ST79 isolates carried an ICE highly similar to ICE Tn7407, which was recently detected in Germany, suggesting that ST79 P. multocida isolates in Europe and North America may be associated with different ICEs.
Cobalt Protoporphyrin Blocks EqHV-8 Infection via IFN-α/β Production
Authors: Li Liangliang , Hu Xinyao , Li Shuwen , Li Ying , Zhao Shengmiao , Shen Fengzhen , Wang Changfa , Li Yubao , Wang Tongtong
Published: August 2023

Equid alphaherpesvirus type 8 (EqHV-8) is the causative agent of severe respiratory disease, abortions, and neurological syndromes in equines and has resulted in huge economic losses to the donkey industry. Currently, there exist no therapeutic molecules for controlling EqHV-8 infection. We evaluated the potential antiviral activity of cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) against EqHV-8 infection. Our results demonstrated that CoPP inhibited EqHV-8 infection in susceptible cells and mouse models. Furthermore, CoPP blocked the replication of EqHV-8 via HO-1 (heme oxygenase-1) mediated type I interferon (IFN) response. In conclusion, our data suggested that CoPP could serve as a novel potential molecule to develop an effective therapeutic strategy for EqHV-8 prevention and control.
Predicting Severe Haematological Toxicity in Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients Undergoing 5-FU-Based Chemotherapy: A Bayesian Network Approach
Authors: Ruiz Sarrias Oskitz , Gónzalez Deza Cristina , Rodríguez Rodríguez Javier , Arrizibita Iriarte Olast , Vizcay Atienza Angel , Zumárraga Lizundia Teresa , Sayar Beristain Onintza , Aldaz Pastor Azucena
Published: August 2023

Purpose: Severe toxicity is reported in about 30% of gastrointestinal cancer patients receiving 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy. To date, limited tools exist to identify at risk patients in this setting. The objective of this study was to address this need by designing a predictive model using a Bayesian network, a probabilistic graphical model offering robust, explainable predictions. Methods: We utilized a dataset of 267 gastrointestinal cancer patients, conducting preprocessing, and splitting it into TRAIN and TEST sets (80%:20% ratio). The RandomForest algorithm assessed variable importance based on MeanDecreaseGini coefficient. The bnlearn R library helped design a Bayesian network model using a 10-fold cross-validation on the TRAIN set and the aic-cg method for network structure optimization. The model’s performance was gauged based on accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, using cross-validation on the TRAIN set and independent validation on the TEST set. Results: The model demonstrated satisfactory performance with an average accuracy of 0.85 (±0.05) and 0.80 on TRAIN and TEST datasets, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity were 0.82 (±0.14) and 0.87 (±0.07) for the TRAIN dataset, and 0.71 and 0.83 for the TEST dataset, respectively. A user-friendly tool was developed for clinical implementation. Conclusions: Despite several limitations, our Bayesian network model demonstrated a high level of accuracy in predicting the risk of developing severe haematological toxicity in gastrointestinal cancer patients receiving 5-FU-based chemotherapy. Future research should aim at model validation in larger cohorts of patients and different clinical settings.
Interpreting the Mechanism of Synergism for Drug Combinations Using Attention-Based Hierarchical Graph Pooling
Authors: Dong Zehao , Zhang Heming , Chen Yixin , Payne Philip R. O. , Li Fuhai
Published: August 2023

Synergistic drug combinations provide huge potentials to enhance therapeutic efficacy and to reduce adverse reactions. However, effective and synergistic drug combination prediction remains an open question because of the unknown causal disease signaling pathways. Though various deep learning (AI) models have been proposed to quantitatively predict the synergism of drug combinations, the major limitation of existing deep learning methods is that they are inherently not interpretable, which makes the conclusions of AI models untransparent to human experts, henceforth limiting the robustness of the model conclusion and the implementation ability of these models in real-world human–AI healthcare. In this paper, we develop an interpretable graph neural network (GNN) that reveals the underlying essential therapeutic targets and the mechanism of the synergy (MoS) by mining the sub-molecular network of great importance. The key point of the interpretable GNN prediction model is a novel graph pooling layer, a self-attention-based node and edge pool (henceforth SANEpool), that can compute the attention score (importance) of genes and connections based on the genomic features and topology. As such, the proposed GNN model provides a systematic way to predict and interpret the drug combination synergism based on the detected crucial sub-molecular network. Experiments on various well-adopted drug-synergy-prediction datasets demonstrate that (1) the SANEpool model has superior predictive ability to generate accurate synergy score prediction, and (2) the sub-molecular networks detected by the SANEpool are self-explainable and salient for identifying synergistic drug combinations.
A Study on the Distributed-Control Architecture of a DSP-Based Solid-State Transformer System with Implementation
Authors: Ju Jiho , Choi Dongho , Lee June-Seok
Published: August 2023

This article proposes a Distributed-control Architecture (D-CA) and an operation sequence with start-up strategies for a Digital Signal Processor (DSP)-based Solid-State Transformer (SST). Although various control techniques for SSTs have been reported in earlier studies, there is still a lack of research covering comprehensive content, including hierarchical control architectures and operation sequences with start-ups considering the implementation of DSPs. Therefore, this article addresses the following factors of SST. First, the D-CA is described for the design of the hierarchy between control boards. With the D-CA, because sub-boards are in charge of their corresponding DC-link voltage balancing control individually, the computational burden on the master board can be reduced. Second, the operation sequence of the SST system is explained based on the SST with D-CA. The step of DC-link voltage balance is considered throughout the entire operation sequence for safe driving. Furthermore, the PWM start-up strategies for a Cascade H-bridge Multilevel (CHM) converter and Dual Active Bridge (DAB) converter are proposed to prevent switching pulse errors caused by DSP operating characteristics. These start-up strategies reduce the current surges. The validity of the proposed D-CA and operation sequence with start-up strategies are verified by experimental results.
Pore Types and Characteristics of Ultra-Deep Shale of the Lower Paleozoic Wufeng-Longmaxi Formations in the Eastern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Chi Ruolong , Gao Ping , Cai Yidong , Liu Ruobing , Du Jinghan , Zhou Qin
Published: August 2023

Recently, shale gas exploration of the Wufeng-Longmaxi formations (WF-LMX) in the Sichuan Basin has gradually stepped into deep to ultra-deep layers, but the pore types and characteristics of ultra-deep shale still remain unclear. In this study, the WF-LMX ultra-deep organic-rich shale samples in the Eastern Sichuan Basin were collected, and the types and development characteristics of shale pores were investigated by using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Our results showed that the pores of the WF-LMX ultra-deep shale reservoirs mainly included organic pores, mineral matrix pores (interparticle pores and intraparticle pores), and micro-fractures, which were dominated by organic pores, displaying oval, slit, and irregular shapes and a diameter of mainly 5–45 nm. Organic pores were poorly developed in primary organic matter (e.g., graptolite and radiolarian), while they were well developed in solid bitumen, being the most important nanopore type in shale. The pore development of ultra-deep shale was mainly controlled by the contents of organic matter and brittle minerals. Higher contents of organic matter and quartz are conducive to the development and preservation of organic pores, which are also favorable for ultra-deep shale gas exploration.
The Choice of Cooperative Governance Mechanism in Open Innovation Projects under the Synergy of the Electricity–Carbon Market
Authors: Fang Ping , Wan Liang , Fang Wenpei
Published: August 2023

Improving the level of cooperative governance of open innovation projects is a key bridge and powerful starting point for promoting the full integration and coordinated development of different market systems. Against the background of the synergy of the electricity–carbon market, this study explores how a company chooses a cooperative governance mechanism and the implementation effects of governance mechanisms. The results, based on the sample data from 175 OIPs of companies in China, show that the collaborative dependence of a company promotes the implementation of relational governance; however, it has no significant effect on contract control. Meanwhile, both relational governance and contract control have significant positive effects on knowledge transfer and cooperative performance. Moreover, knowledge transfer plays a mediating role in relational governance, contract control, and cooperative performance. The conclusion enriches the understanding of cooperative governance mechanisms, which has important implications for management research and the practice of open innovation projects. It also has certain practical significance for helping the power industry to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality.