bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyper-reflective foci changes in RRMS under natalizumab therapy
Authors: Puthenparampil Marco , Basili Elisa , Ponzano Marta , Mauceri Valentina Annamaria , Miscioscia Alessandro , Pilotto Elisabetta , Perini Paola , Rinaldi Francesca , Bovis Francesca , Gallo Paolo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Microglia (MG) is suggested to play an immunopathological role of in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Since hyper-reflective foci (HRF) might mark MG activation, in vivo analysis by Optic Coherence Tomography (OCT) in MS patients under disease modifying therapies may help to clarify MS immunopathology as well as drug’s mechanism of intrathecal action.

Objective

To analyze HRF in patients treated with Natalizumab (NTZ), a high efficacy therapy for MS.

Materials and methods

The effect of NTZ on the retina of 36 Relapsing-Remitting MS patients was investigated in a prospective, single-center study. OCT was performed immediately before the first infusion and then between infusion 3 and 4, infusion 6 and 7, infusion 11 and 13. Peripapillary and macular scans were acquired, evaluating peripapillary RNFL thickness, macular volumes (vertical scans), and HRF count (horizontal scan) in Ganglion Cell Layer (GCL), Inner Plexiform Layer (IPL) and Inner Nuclear Layer (INL). Clinical examination was performed every six months.

Results

HRF count significantly increased under NTZ therapy (p<0.001) in both GCL (18.85 ± 6.93 at baseline, 28.24 ± 9.55 after 12 months) and IPL (25.73 ± 7.03 at baseline, 33.21 ± 8.50 after 12 months) but remained stable in INL (33.65 ± 7.76 at baseline, 36.06 ± 6.86 after 12 months, p=0.87), while no relevant modification of pRNFL and macular volumes were observed during the study. EDSS remained stable and no clinical relapse was observed between month 6 and 12.

Conclusion

In RRMS NTZ affects HRF count in GCL and IPL, but not in INL, suggesting that NTZ does not impact on some aspects of MS immunopathology.
Applications of deep learning in physical oceanography: a comprehensive review
Authors: Zhao Qianlong , Peng Shiqiu , Wang Jingzhen , Li Shaotian , Hou Zhengyu , Zhong Guoqiang
Published: July 2024

Deep learning, a data-driven technology, has attracted widespread attention from various disciplines due to the rapid advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT) big data, machine learning algorithms and computational hardware in recent years. It proves to achieve comparable or even more accurate results than traditional methods in a more flexible manner in existing applications in various fields. In the field of physical oceanography, an important scientific field of oceanography, the abundance of ocean surface data and high dynamic complexity pave the way for an extensive application of deep learning. Moreover, researchers have already conducted a great deal of work to innovate traditional approaches in ocean circulation, ocean dynamics, ocean climate, ocean remote sensing and ocean geophysics, leading oceanographic studies into the “AI ocean era”. In our study, we categorize numerous research topics in physical oceanography into four aspects: surface elements, subsurface elements, typical ocean phenomena, and typical weather and climate phenomena. We review the cutting-edge applications of deep learning in physical oceanography over the past three years to provide comprehensive insights into its development. From the perspective of three application scenarios, namely spatial data, temporal data and data generation, three corresponding deep learning model types are introduced, which are convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and generative adversarial networks (GANs), and also their principal application tasks. Furthermore, this study discusses the current bottlenecks and future innovative prospects of deep learning in oceanography. Through summarizing and analyzing the existing research, our aim is to delve into the potential and challenges of deep learning in physical oceanography, providing reference and inspiration for researchers in future oceanographic studies.
Beyond equilibrium thinking: dynamic area-based management tools in a changing ocean
Authors: Klerk Bastiaan E. , Heinrich Katharina , Primicerio Raul
Published: July 2024

Area-based management tools (ABMTs), including marine protected areas (MPAs) are often static and fail to reflect the dynamic realities of marine ecosystems. Marine ecosystems are characterized by their embodiment of constant change, which is further amplified by anthropogenic stressors, particularly climate change. ABMTs and MPAs are, however, premised on an implicit assumption of environmental equilibrium as their boundaries and management framework are often fixed and difficult to adjust. This article seeks to lay bare the tension between static conservation strategies and the deeply and inherently dynamic nature of marine ecosystems. It further seeks to advance the notion of dynamic ABMTs, proposing an integrated conceptualization of ABMT governance, one that is more apt to respond to the type of challenges that the dynamism of complex marine ecosystems presents. Dynamism, in this context, is broadly construed as encompassing three dimensions: spatial, with fluid and adjustable conservation measures; normative, denoting a volatile and adaptive management framework that utilizes ecological and management thresholds as an initiator for adaptive, timely, and prospective approaches to enhance management outcomes; and institutional, i.e., sufficiently flexible and dynamic institutional machinery overseeing ABMT implementation. Following a comprehensive conceptualization of dynamic ABMTs, the article addresses the question whether the legal frameworks governing the ocean can sustain such a dynamic mode of ocean governance.
Coral spawning patterns on the Luhuitou fringing reef in Hainan Island of the northern South China Sea
Authors: Sun Youfang , Zhang Yuyang , Jiang Lei , Yu Xiaolei , Huang Lintao , Yuan Tao , Yang Jianhui , Lian Jiansheng , Liu Chengyue , Ang Put , Huang Hui
Published: July 2024

Observation of coral spawning times is valuable to detect spawning patterns and identify the potential mechanisms behind coral reproduction. Although large amount of data on global coral spawning records have become available over the past decades, information on coral spawning in the northern South China Sea remains scarce. In this study, we investigated the spawning patterns of scleractinian corals in Luhuitou fringing reef, Hainan Island, China, from 2009 to 2021 in relation to lunar cycles (month and day). The spawning times of 22 coral species from five genera (Acropora, Montipora, Platygyra, Dipsastraea, and Galaxea) within three families (Acroporidae, Merulinidae, and Euphylliidae) were recorded, with spawning occurring from lunar February to May 2009–2021. Recorded spawning events started at a period of increasing seawater temperature. Acropora, the most documented genus, spawned between lunar February and April, but primarily in lunar March. Importantly, the spawning time of Acropora was delayed for one lunar month in 2016 most likely due to a rapid decrease in monthly mean seawater temperature in lunar February. Spawning lunar days before, on or after full moon of corals in the Luhuitou Reef, including those of the Acropora species, were highly variable between years even for the same species. No predictable pattern of spawning times can thus be detected. Nonetheless, our results fill up an information gap on coral spawning patterns in the northern South China Sea that may be useful for further understanding of the reproductive biology of scleractinian corals throughout the Indo–West Pacific.
Utilization of fungal and bacterial bioremediation techniques for the treatment of toxic waste and biowaste
Authors: Thirumalaivasan Natesan , Gnanasekaran Lalitha , Kumar Suresh , Durvasulu Rajesh , Sundaram Thanigaivel , Rajendran Saravanan , Nangan Senthilkumar , Kanagaraj Kuppusamy
Published: July 2024

The escalating accumulation of toxic wastes and biowastes constitutes a critical environmental crisis that demands immediate and effective solutions. Traditional waste treatment methods, predominantly chemical and physical, are increasingly viewed as unsustainable, burdened by high operational costs and the risk of generating secondary pollutants. Against this backdrop, bioremediation emerges as a crucial and sustainable alternative, utilizing the natural detoxifying capabilities of microorganisms. This review article focuses on the use of fungal and bacterial strategies in bioremediation, emphasizing their vital role in the degradation, stabilization, or detoxification of pollutants. We provide an in-depth analysis of the mechanisms by which fungi and bacteria break down various contaminants, presenting a current snapshot of the field’s state of knowledge. The article highlights recent innovative advancements that improve the effectiveness and expand the applicability of bioremediation technologies. Moreover, it discusses the practical challenges of scaling these solutions to meet global environmental needs and suggests directions for future research and implementation. This synthesis not only underscores the significance of microbial bioremediation in addressing pressing environmental problems but also acts as a call to action for continued innovation in the sustainable management of hazardous wastes.
Generating open-source 3D phytoplankton models by integrating photogrammetry with scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Sun Xuerong , Brewin Robert J. W. , Hacker Christian , Viljoen Johannes J. , Li Mengyu
Published: July 2024

The community structure and ecological function of marine ecosystems are critically dependent on phytoplankton. However, our understanding of phytoplankton is limited due to the lack of detailed information on their morphology. To address this gap, we developed a framework that combines scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with photogrammetry to create realistic 3D (three-dimensional) models of phytoplankton. The workflow of this framework is demonstrated using two marine algal species, one dinoflagellate Prorocentrum micans and one diatom Halamphora sp. The resulting 3D models are made openly available and allow users to interact with phytoplankton and their complex structures virtually (digitally) and tangibly (3D printing). They also allow for surface area and biovolume calculations of phytoplankton, as well as the exploration of their light scattering properties, which are both important for ecosystem modeling. Additionally, by presenting these models to the public, it bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and education, promoting broader awareness on the importance of phytoplankton.
Bibliometric analysis of neuroinflammation and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Sun Wenxian , Gong Jin , Li Shaoqi , Wang Pin , Han Xiaodong , Xu Chang , Luan Heya , Li Ruina , Wen Boye , Wei Cuibai
Published: July 2024

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the predominant cause of dementia on a global scale, significantly impacting the health of the elderly population. The pathogenesis of AD is closely linked to neuroinflammation. The present study employs a bibliometric analysis to examine research pertaining to neuroinflammation and AD within the last decade, with the objective of providing a comprehensive overview of the current research profile, hotspots and trends.

Methods

This research conducted a comprehensive review of publications within the Science Citation Index Expanded of the Web of Science Core Collection Database spanning the years 2014 to 2024. Bibliometric analyses were performed using VOSviewer (version 1.6.19) and CiteSpace (version 6.3.R1) software to visualize data on countries, institutions, authors, journals, keywords, and references.

Results

A total of 3,833 publications on neuroinflammation and AD were included from January 2014 to January 2024. Publications were mainly from the United States and China. Zetterberg, Henrik emerged as the author with the highest publication output, while Edison, Paul was identified as the most cited author. The most productive journal was Journal of Alzheimers Disease, and the most co-cited was Journal of Neuroinflammation. Research hotspot focused on microglia, mouse models, oxidative stress, and amyloid-beta through keyword analysis. Additionally, keywords such as blood–brain barrier and tau protein exhibited prolonged citation bursts from 2022 to 2024.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive review of the last 10 years of research on neuroinflammation and AD, including the number and impact of research findings, research hotspots, and future trends. The quantity of publications in this field is increasing, mainly in the United States and China, and there is a need to further strengthen close cooperation with different countries and institutions worldwide. Presently, research hotspots are primarily concentrated on microglia, with a focus on inhibiting their pro-inflammatory responses and promoting their anti-inflammatory functions as a potential direction for future investigations.
Intra-articular sprouting of nociceptors accompanies progressive osteoarthritis: comparative evidence in four murine models
Authors: Obeidat Alia M. , Ishihara Shingo , Li Jun , Adamczyk Natalie S. , Lammlin Lindsey , Junginger Lucas , Maerz Tristan , Miller Richard J. , Miller Rachel E. , Malfait Anne-Marie
Published: July 2024

Objective

Knee joints are densely innervated by nociceptors. In human knees and rodent models, sprouting of nociceptors has been reported in late-stage osteoarthritis (OA). Here, we sought to describe progressive nociceptor remodeling in early and late-stage OA, using four distinct experimental mouse models.

Methods

Sham surgery, destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM), partial meniscectomy (PMX), or non-invasive anterior cruciate ligament rupture (ACLR) was performed in the right knee of 10-12-week old male C57BL/6 NaV1.8-tdTomato mice. Mice were euthanized (1) 4, 8 or 16 weeks after DMM or sham surgery; (2) 4 or 12 weeks after PMX or sham; (3) 1 or 4 weeks after ACLR injury or sham. Additionally, a cohort of naïve male wildtype mice was evaluated at age 6 and 24 months. Mid-joint cryosections were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively for NaV1.8+ or PGP9.5+ innervation. Cartilage damage, synovitis, and osteophytes were assessed.

Results

Progressive OA developed in the medial compartment after DMM, PMX, and ACLR. Synovitis and associated neo-innervation of the synovium by nociceptors peaked in early-stage OA. In the subchondral bone, channels containing sprouting nociceptors appeared early, and progressed with worsening joint damage. Two-year old mice developed primary OA in the medial and the lateral compartment, accompanied by nociceptor sprouting in the synovium and the subchondral bone. All four models showed increased nerve signal in osteophytes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that anatomical neuroplasticity of nociceptors is intrinsic to OA pathology. The detailed description of innervation of the OA joint and its relationship to joint damage might help in understanding OA pain.
Postural instability and lower extremity dysfunction in upper motor neuron-dominant amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Liu Xiangyi , Chen Lu , Ye Shan , Liu Xiaoxuan , Zhang Yingshuang , Fan Dongsheng
Published: July 2024

Background

Upper motor neuron-dominant ALS (UMND ALS) is recognized to have early onset and good prognosis, but may have a rapid decline in motor function due to gait instability in the early stage. We investigated changes in lower extremity function in UMND ALS, particularly UMND ALS patients accompanied with postural instability or repeated falls (UMND ALS plus).

Results

Among the 2,353 ALS patients reviewed, 211 (9.0%) had UMND ALS. UMND ALS had a longer diagnosis delay and restricted symptoms. Although UMND ALS patients had better lower extremity function and strength than matched classic ALS patients on first evaluation, there was no difference in the time of needing assistance or not being able to walk after disease onset. In contrast, UMND ALS plus has severe UMN symptoms and a more rapid decline in motor function. The lower extremity function was no better than that in the matched classic ALS. The prognosis of UMND ALS and UMND ALS plus were significantly better than those of overall ALS.

Conclusion

UMND ALS has restricted symptoms but has a rapid decline in lower extremity function in the early stage of the disease. The motor function decline of UMND ALS plus is as fast as classic ALS. Whether these patients represent a distinct subgroup of ALS deserves further investigation.
Blocking Aδ- and C-fiber neural transmission by sub-kilohertz peripheral nerve stimulation
Authors: Zhang Shaopeng , Chen Longtu , Ladez Sajjad Rigi , Seferge Ahmet , Liu Jia , Feng Bin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

We recently showed that sub-kilohertz electrical stimulation of the afferent somata in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) reversibly blocks afferent transmission. Here, we further investigated whether similar conduction block can be achieved by stimulating the nerve trunk with electrical peripheral nerve stimulation (ePNS).

Methods

We explored the mechanisms and parameters of conduction block by ePNS via ex vivo single-fiber recordings from two somatic (sciatic and saphenous) and one autonomic (vagal) nerves harvested from mice. Action potentials were evoked on one end of the nerve and recorded on the other end from teased nerve filaments, i.e., single-fiber recordings. ePNS was delivered in the middle of the nerve trunk using a glass suction electrode at frequencies of 5, 10, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 Hz.

Results

Suprathreshold ePNS reversibly blocks axonal neural transmission of both thinly myelinated Aδ-fiber axons and unmyelinated C-fiber axons. ePNS leads to a progressive decrease in conduction velocity (CV) until transmission blockage, suggesting activity-dependent conduction slowing. The blocking efficiency is dependent on the axonal conduction velocity, with Aδ-fibers efficiently blocked by 50–1000 Hz stimulation and C-fibers blocked by 10–50 Hz. The corresponding NEURON simulation of action potential transmission indicates that the disrupted transmembrane sodium and potassium concentration gradients underly the transmission block by the ePNS.

Discussion

The current study provides direct evidence of reversible Aδ- and C-fiber transmission blockage by low-frequency (<100 Hz) electrical stimulation of the nerve trunk, a previously overlooked mechanism that can be harnessed to enhance the therapeutic effect of ePNS in treating neurological disorders.
On the performance of seizure prediction machine learning methods across different databases: the sample and alarm-based perspectives
Authors: Andrade Inês , Teixeira César , Pinto Mauro
Published: July 2024

Epilepsy affects 1% of the global population, with approximately one-third of patients resistant to anti-seizure medications (ASMs), posing risks of physical injuries and psychological issues. Seizure prediction algorithms aim to enhance the quality of life for these individuals by providing timely alerts. This study presents a patient-specific seizure prediction algorithm applied to diverse databases (EPILEPSIAE, CHB-MIT, AES, and Epilepsy Ecosystem). The proposed algorithm undergoes a standardized framework, including data preprocessing, feature extraction, training, testing, and postprocessing. Various databases necessitate adaptations in the algorithm, considering differences in data availability and characteristics. The algorithm exhibited variable performance across databases, taking into account sensitivity, FPR/h, specificity, and AUC score. This study distinguishes between sample-based approaches, which often yield better results by disregarding the temporal aspect of seizures, and alarm-based approaches, which aim to simulate real-life conditions but produce less favorable outcomes. Statistical assessment reveals challenges in surpassing chance levels, emphasizing the rarity of seizure events. Comparative analyses with existing studies highlight the complexity of standardized assessments, given diverse methodologies and dataset variations. Rigorous methodologies aiming to simulate real-life conditions produce less favorable outcomes, emphasizing the importance of realistic assumptions and comprehensive, long-term, and systematically structured datasets for future research.
Zebrafish myo7aa affects congenital hearing by regulating Rho-GTPase signaling
Authors: Xie Binling , Liang Jiaxin , Jiang Jifan , Zeng Ting , Liu Ling , Xie Dinghua , Zhu Ganghua , Xiong Lei , Zhang Kanjia , Liu Dong , Gong Jie , Chen Xiangding , Lai Ruosha , Xie Huaping
Published: July 2024

Introduction

myo7aa, the homolog of the human Usher 1B syndrome pathogenic gene, myo7A, plays an important role in stereociliary development and maintenance, therefore, is critical for hearing and balance. However, the molecular mechanisms that myo7aa regulate hearing and balance still need to be studied.

Methods

In this study, we generated two independent zebrafish myo7aa knockout lines using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. To investigate the effects of myo7aa on hearing, YO-PRO-1 staining and startle response assay were used. To gain insight into the specific molecular mechanisms by which myo7aa affects hearing, transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were employed.

Results

Our study showed that hair cells of myo7aa-/- zebrafish can not take up YO-PRO-1 fluorescent dye and are insensitive to acoustic stimulation in myo7aa-/- zebrafish compared to wild type. Genes related to the Rho GTPase signaling pathway, such as arhgap33, dab2ip, and arghef40, are significantly down-regulated in myo7aa-/- zebrafish embryos at 3 dpf. GTP and ATP compensation can partially rescue the hair cell defects in myo7aa knockout zebrafish.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that zebrafish myo7aa affects congenital hearing by regulating Rho GTPase signaling, and loss of myo7aa leads to abnormal Rho GTPase signaling and impairs hair cell function. myo7aa, myo7A, arhgap33, dab2ip, arghef40 and myo7aa-/- fonts in the abstract are italicized. -/- is a superscript format.
Diabetes-specific formula with standard of care improves glycemic control, body composition, and cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight and obese adults with type 2 diabetes: results from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tey Siew Ling , Chee Winnie S.S. , Deerochanawong Chaicharn , Berde Yatin , Lim Lee-Ling , Boonyavarakul Apussanee , Wakefield Brittany , Baggs Geraldine , Huynh Dieu Thi Thu
Published: July 2024

Background and aims

Medical nutrition therapy is important for diabetes management. This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a diabetes-specific formula (DSF) on glycemic control and cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Participants (n = 235) were randomized to either DSF with standard of care (SOC) (DSF group; n = 117) or SOC only (control group; n = 118). The DSF group consumed one or two DSF servings daily as meal replacement or partial meal replacement. The assessments were done at baseline, on day 45, and on day 90.

Results

There were significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (−0.44% vs. –0.26%, p = 0.015, at day 45; −0.50% vs. −0.21%, p = 0.002, at day 90) and fasting blood glucose (−0.14 mmol/L vs. +0.32 mmol/L, p = 0.036, at day 90), as well as twofold greater weight loss (−1.30 kg vs. –0.61 kg, p  < 0.001, at day 45; −1.74 kg vs. –0.76 kg, p < 0.001, at day 90) in the DSF group compared with the control group. The decrease in percent body fat and increase in percent fat-free mass at day 90 in the DSF group were almost twice that of the control group (1.44% vs. 0.79%, p = 0.047). In addition, the percent change in visceral adipose tissue at day 90 in the DSF group was several-fold lower than in the control group (−6.52% vs. –0.95%, p < 0.001). The DSF group also showed smaller waist and hip circumferences, and lower diastolic blood pressure than the control group (all overall p ≤ 0.045).

Conclusion

DSF with SOC yielded significantly greater improvements than only SOC in glycemic control, body composition, and cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with T2D.
Development and validation of the Environmental Confinement Stressors Scale (ECSS-20)
Authors: Santibáñez-Palma J. Francisco , Ferrer-Urbina Rodrigo , Sepúlveda-Páez Geraldy , Bravo de la Fuente Josefa , Alarcón-Castillo Karina
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has generated a global crisis with severe consequences for public health. There have been negative impacts on people’s quality of life and mental health due to various stressors arising in this context, such as physical, social, economic, and psychological challenges. Noteworthy among these are the indirect effects of health measures, especially social distancing and confinement, which have significantly altered people’s daily lives and social activities, producing high levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. This study proposes developing and validating a cross-sectional scale called the “Environmental Stressors Scale (ECSS-20)” to address the need to measure the impact of environmental stressors during confinement. The scale, which has been validated following ethical and methodological guidelines, consists of four dimensions: economic stressors (EE), social activities (SA), habitability (H), and exposure to virtual media (EMV). A pilot study (n = 113) and a main study (n = 314) were applied. The results showed that the instrument has a reliable and valid structure, with satisfactory internal consistency and factorial validity. Likewise, gender invariance tests supported its suitability for its applicability to women and men. Overall, the ECSS-20 is a valuable instrument for assessing the impact of confinement and improving the understanding of people’s subjective experiences in this situation. Future research could further develop its applicability in different contexts and populations to better understand its usefulness and psychometric properties.
Characterizing Chinese undergraduate students’ empathizing-systemizing profiles: a person-centered approach
Authors: Qin Yishu , Zhang Da-Wei
Published: July 2024

While the empathizing-systemizing (E-S) theory provides a valuable framework for explaining gender differences in STEM majors, previous studies suffer from methodological issues (i.e., the arbitrary cut-off criteria and WEIRD sampling) as well as discrepancies in the behavioral correlates of E-S types. To address the gaps, this study utilized a 3-step latent profile analysis to identify naturally occurring E-S profiles in a Chinese sample and explored the predictors and distal outcomes of the identified profiles. The study recruited 785 (aged 18–25 years, 60% female) Chinese undergraduates. Results revealed five E-S profiles: Disengaged, Empathizers, Navigating systemizers, Technological systemizers, and Self-declared allrounders. Controlling for socioeconomic status, being male predicted a higher likelihood of membership into the Technological systemizers. Besides, membership to the Navigating systemizers and Technological systemizers was associated with better intuitive physics performance. However, no significant variation was observed for social sensitivity performance across E-S profiles. Overall, our results partially conformed to previous findings, highlighting the importance of cultural adaptation and methodological considerations when classifying students’ cognitive types.
The positive impact of identity-affirming mental health treatment for neurodivergent individuals
Authors: Kroll Elizabeth , Lederman Megan , Kohlmeier Jonathan , Kumar Komal , Ballard Jaime , Zant Izabella , Fenkel Caroline
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The medical and social definitions of neurodivergence have become a common topic of discussion in recent years, and the ways that we define, measure and report on conditions within the neurodivergent umbrella are changing. The objective of this study was to analyze differences in mental health symptom presentation at intake and compare treatment outcomes among three groups: clients with an affirming neurodivergent diagnosis, clients without an affirming diagnosis, and neurotypical clients.

Methods

Data were collected at intake and discharge. Clients self-reported neurodivergent identity, neurodivergent diagnoses, as well as the severity of depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms and self-harm frequency. One-way multivariate analysis of variance tests were run to assess differences in mental health symptoms at intake and discharge based on neurodivergent identity and corresponding diagnosis. When MANOVAs indicated significant differences, follow-up univariate one-way ANOVAs were conducted for each dependent variable.

Results

Neurodivergent clients reported significantly worse mental health symptoms at intake than neurotypical clients, regardless of diagnosis status. Additionally, clients who identified as neurodivergent but did not report an affirming medical diagnosis reported significantly worse mental health symptoms than those who did report an affirming medical diagnosis. By discharge from IOP treatment, no significant differences were found in symptom change scores between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, or neurodivergent individuals with an affirming diagnosis and those without.

Discussion

These findings highlight the importance of acknowledging client identity as a key component of mental health treatment. The act of validating symptoms and experiences, allowing accommodations when requested, and exploring identity formation regardless of diagnosis, allowed all clients who identified as neurodivergent to benefit from treatment.
Interfacing consciousness
Authors: Prentner Robert , Hoffman Donald D.
Published: July 2024

The current stage of consciousness science has reached an impasse. We blame the physicalist worldview for this and propose a new perspective to make progress on the problems of consciousness. Our perspective is rooted in the theory of conscious agents. We thereby stress the fundamentality of consciousness outside of spacetime, the importance of agency, and the mathematical character of the theory. For conscious agent theory (CAT) to achieve the status of a robust scientific framework, it needs to be integrated with a good explanation of perception and cognition. We argue that this role is played by the interface theory of perception (ITP), an evolutionary-based model of perception that has been previously formulated and defended by the authors. We are specifically interested in what this tells us about the possibility of AI consciousness and conclude with a somewhat counter-intuitive proposal: we live inside a simulation instantiated, not digitally, but in consciousness. Such a simulation is just an interface representation of the dynamics of conscious agents for a conscious agent. This paves the way for employing AI in consciousness science through customizing our interface.
Associations of exposure to volatile organic compounds with sleep health and potential mediators: analysis of NHANES data
Authors: Zhuang Yan , Li Laifu , Zhang Yanqi , Dai Fei
Published: July 2024

Objective

The effect of environmental pollution on sleep has been widely studied, yet the relationship between exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and sleep health requires further exploration. We aimed to investigate the single and mixed effect of urinary VOC metabolites on sleep health and identify potential mediators.

Methods

Data for this cross-sectional study was collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) (2005–2006, 2011–2014). A weighted multivariate logistic regression was established to explore the associations of 16 VOCs with four sleep outcomes. Following the selection of important VOCs through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, principal component analyses (PCA), weight quantile sum (WQS), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) analyses were conducted to explore the associations between exposure to single and mixed VOCs and sleep outcomes, as well as identify the most contributing components. A mediation analysis was performed to explore the potential effect of depression scores.

Results

Of the 3,473 participants included in the study, a total of 618 were diagnosed with poor sleep patterns. In logistic regression analyses, 7, 10, 1, and 5 VOCs were significantly positively correlated with poor sleep patterns, abnormal sleep duration, trouble sleeping, and sleep disorders, respectively. The PCA analysis showed that PC1 was substantially linked to a higher risk of poor sleep patterns and its components. The WQS model revealed a positive association between VOC mixture of increased concentrations and poor sleep patterns [OR (95% CI): 1.285 (1.107, 1.493)], abnormal sleep duration [OR (95% CI): 1.154 (1.030, 1.295)], trouble sleeping [OR (95% CI): 1.236 (1.090, 1.403)] and sleep disorders [OR (95% CI): 1.378 (1.118, 1.705)]. The BKMR model found positive associations of the overall VOC exposure with poor sleep patterns, trouble sleeping, and sleep disorders. PCA, WQS, and BKMR models all confirmed the significant role of N-acetyl-S-(N-methylcarbamoyl)-l-cysteine (AMCC) in poor sleep patterns and its components. The depression score was a mediator between the positive VOC mixture index and the four sleep outcomes.

Conclusion

Exposure to single and mixed VOCs negatively affected the sleep health of American population, with AMCC playing a significant role. The depression score was shown to mediate the associations of VOC mixtures with poor sleep patterns and its components.
Examining nutrition strategies to influence DNA methylation and epigenetic clocks: a systematic review of clinical trials
Authors: García-García Isabel , Grisotto Giorgia , Heini Adrian , Gibertoni Simone , Nusslé Sébastien , Gonseth Nusslé Semira , Donica Olga
Published: July 2024

Nutrition has powerful impacts on our health and longevity. One of the mechanisms by which nutrition might influence our health is by inducing epigenetic modifications, modulating the molecular mechanisms that regulate aging. Observational studies have provided evidence of a relationship between nutrition and differences in DNA methylation. However, these studies are limited in that they might not provide an accurate control of the interactions between different nutrients, or between nutrition and other lifestyle behaviors. Here we systematically reviewed clinical studies examining the impact of nutrition strategies on DNA methylation. We examined clinical studies in community-dwelling adults testing the effects of nutrition interventions on i) global DNA methylation and its proxies, and ii) epigenetic clocks. We included 21 intervention studies that focused on the effects of healthy nutrition patterns, specific foods or nutrients, as well as the effect of multivitamin or multimineral supplements. In four studies on the methylation effects of healthy dietary patterns, as defined by being rich in vegetables, fruits, whole-grains, and nuts and reduced in the intake of added sugars, saturated fat, and alcohol, two of them suggested that a healthy diet, is associated with lower epigenetic age acceleration, one of them reported increases in global DNA methylation, while another one found no diet effects. Studies examining epigenetic effects of specific foods, nutrients, or mixtures of nutrients were scarce. For both folic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acids, the available independent studies produced conflicting findings. Although more evidence is still needed to draw firm conclusions, results begin to suggest that healthy dietary patterns have positive effects on DNA methylation. Additional evidence from large randomized-controlled clinical trials is needed to support the effects of healthy nutrition on the DNA methylome.
Developing a person-centered stated preference survey for dementia with Lewy bodies: value of a personal and public involvement process
Authors: Donnelly Paula Sinead , Sweeney Aoife , Wilson Emily , Passmore Anthony Peter , McCorry Noleen K. , Boeri Marco , Kane Joseph P. M.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The development of high-quality stated preference (SP) surveys requires a rigorous design process involving engagement with representatives from the target population. However, while transparency in the reporting of the development of SP surveys is encouraged, few studies report on this process and the outcomes. Recommended stages of instrument development includes both steps for stakeholder/end-user engagement and pretesting. Pretesting typically involves interviews, often across multiple waves, with improvements made at each wave; pretesting is therefore resource intensive. The aims of this paper are to report on the outcomes of collaboration with a Lewy body dementia research advisory group during the design phase of a SP survey. We also evaluate an alternative approach to instrument development, necessitated by a resource constrained context.

Method

The approach involved conducting the stages of end-user engagement and pretesting together during a public involvement event. A hybrid approach involving a focus group with breakout interviews was employed. Feedback from contributors informed the evolution of the survey instrument.

Results

Changes to the survey instrument were organized into four categories: attribute modifications; choice task presentation and understanding; information presentation, clarity and content; and best-best scaling presentation. The hybrid approach facilitated group brainstorming while still allowing the researcher to assess the feasibility of choice tasks in an interview setting. However, greater individual exploration and the opportunity to trial iterative improvements across waves was not feasible with this approach.

Discussion

Involvement of the research advisory group resulted in a more person-centered survey design. In a context constrained by time and budget, and with consideration of the capacity and vulnerability of the target population, the approach taken was a feasible and pragmatic mechanism for improving the design of a SP survey.
Technology modification, development, and demonstrations for future spaceflight medical systems at NASA
Authors: Lewandowski B. E. , Schkurko C. M. , Miller R. S. , Valentine R. W. , Calaway K. M. , Yang J. D. , Ebert D. J. , Sargsyan A. , Byrne V. , Walton M. , Lemery J. , Suresh R. , Thompson M. S. , Easter B. D. , Lehnhardt K. R.
Published: July 2024

Throughout the history of human spaceflight, spacefarers have experienced and reported the occurrence of medical conditions, including various illnesses and injuries. Therefore, future spaceflight missions to the Moon and Mars will require the capabilities necessary for maintaining the health of these new space travelers. Mass, power, and volume available in the space vehicles used for these missions will be severely constrained. The ability to resupply or evacuate to Earth will be limited or non-existent, and ground-based support will no longer be immediate due to communication latencies and blackouts. These vehicle and mission constraints will necessitate healthcare be provided from an efficiently planned medical system. To provide the necessary care, these medical systems will need to include at a minimum, several different types of medical devices, consumable resources, centralized data management, procedural guidance, and decision support technologies. Medical devices needed for diagnosing and treating medical conditions that are expected to occur during future spaceflight missions may include real-time health monitoring, medical imaging capabilities, as well as blood and urine analysis. Novel methods for interacting with onboard patient medical records will be necessary, as will resource tracking. Terrestrial medicine shares many of these same needs, therefore a multitude of these required medical capabilities can likely be satisfied by currently available, Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) devices and methodologies; however, in some cases the unique space environment and increased mission durations will drive the need for modifications or customization of standard technologies and treatment procedures. This article will provide a review of medical devices and technologies that have been considered for inclusion within future spaceflight medical systems. It will also include a discussion about the modifications and customized development that have been performed, as well as descriptions of the technology demonstrations that have been conducted in analog and spaceflight environments.
The impact of digital literacy on farmers' pro-environmental behavior: an analysis with the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Lu Shen , Sun Zenan , Huang Man
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The rapid development of agriculture has brought about significant negative impacts on the environment, such as land pollution and ecological degradation. The root cause of environmental issues lies in human behavior, with improper farming practices by farmers being a major contributor to agricultural pollution. This paper explores the relationship between farmers' digital literacy and their pro-environmental behaviors, examining the mediating roles of subjective norms, behavioral attitudes, and perceived behavioral control. Additionally, it investigates the varying impacts of digital literacy on PEB among farmers with different levels of education, social capital, and household income.

Methods

Based on data from the China Land Economic Survey (CLES), this study utilizes an ordered probit regression analysis method to analyze data from 923 sample respondents in 24 villages in Jiangsu Province. All analyses were conducted using Stata 15.0.

Results

The research findings indicate that digital literacy enhances the likelihood of farmers engaging in PEB. This practice is achieved by reinforcing farmers' subjective norms, strengthening their behavioral attitudes, and enhancing their perceived behavioral control (as the core elements in the Theory of Planned Behavior theory), thereby promoting the implementation of PEB among farmers. Further analysis reveals that digital literacy plays a crucial role in enhancing PEB among farmers with higher levels of education, social capital, and household income.

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that policymakers should enhance farmers' digital literacy and implement specific measures to improve farmers' subjective norms, behavioral attitudes, and perceived behavioral control. When the digital literacy and willingness for PEB are improved, farmers may engage in environmentally friendly practices.
Insights into the cashew production system in Guinea-Bissau: implications for agroecosystem sustainability
Authors: Sierra-Baquero Paola , Catarino Sílvia , Costa Gonçalo João , Barai Amidu , Correia Zinha , Ferreira Maria Rosa , Varón-Devia Edgar , Romeiras Maria M. , Catarino Luís , Duarte Maria Cristina , Monteiro Filipa
Published: July 2024

Introduction

West Africa, particularly Guinea-Bissau, heavily relies on cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) production, which significantly impacts the countries’ economies. Cashew exhibits remarkable adaptability to impoverished and arid soils. Understanding producers’ socio-economic characteristics is crucial due to their potential influence on crop productivity and household income.

Methods

This study aims to characterize the socio-economic, productive, and phytosanitary aspects of cashew production in Guinea-Bissau, through 151 interviews with producers across all administrative regions of the country.

Results

Our findings reveal that cashew producers are mainly males aged 40 to 60, they typically manage plantations under 5 ha, with the smaller plantation areas located in Gabú, Cacheu, and Bolama. The age of the older trees averaged 31 years, with the highest age found in Biombo. Tree density averaged 286 trees per hectare, with higher values in Cacheu, Bafatá, and Bolama. Cashew nut yield in 2020 averaged less than 0.5 tons per hectare, with farmer-set prices generally lower than government determined prices. Oio, Tombali, and Bolama were the regions most affected by pests, while Oio and Cacheu (North) were the most affected by diseases. Top pests included termites, branch girdler, weaver ants, African grasshopper, and stem borer; while top diseases comprised gummosis, anthracnose, and dieback.

Discussion

Characterization of cashew production system is crucial at both national and regional levels to identify region-specific limitations and strengths, aiding in the formulation of tailored strategies for sustainable production. Moreover, cashew production plays a crucial role in household incomes in Guinea-Bissau, underscoring the necessity of developing integrated management strategies.
TEP or TAPP: who, when, and how?
Authors: Iossa Angelo , Traumueller Tamagnini Giovanni , De Angelis Francesco , Micalizzi Alessandra , Lelli Giulio , Cavallaro Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Groin hernia repair is the most common procedure performed by general surgeons. The open mesh technique generally represents the main technique for an inguinal repair, but a different approach is often required. Laparoscopy was found to be the answer to minimizing the impact of the preperitoneal open techniques described by Nyhus and Stoppa. The introduction of the totally extraperitoneal hernia repair (TEP) and transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP) in the early 1990s started a new chapter in groin hernia surgery. The minimally invasive techniques vs. open mesh, and then one against the other, soon became a hot topic among abdominal wall surgeons. With time, the number of procedures and indications increased and are still increasing. This review aims to provide an overview of the two main laparoscopic techniques for groin hernia repair, answering the following questions: Who should perform them? What is the learning curve required to minimize complications and optimize operative time? When is a minimally invasive approach indicated, and which one (both in elective and in emergency setting)? How are they performed? The standard techniques have been described in detail, and personal observations from an abdominal wall surgery referral center were added. The main reviews from the early 2000s up to date, which compared the techniques, were analyzed, and the results reported, confirming the comparable safety and efficacy of both these techniques.