bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the structure and energy flow of the salt marsh wetland ecosystem in Liaohe Estuary based on the Ecopath model
Authors: Yuan Daowei , Qiu Ming , Zhou Xushen , Zhang Yan , Zhao Jianhua
Published: October 2024

Salt marshes are one of the three blue carbon ecosystems recognized by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). However, coastal salt marshes in China are facing the risk of degradation. To reveal the status of the salt marsh wetland ecosystem in Liaohe Estuary, an Ecopath model composed of 14 functional groups was constructed based on the 2019 ecological survey data. A comprehensive analysis of the system’s food web structure, energy flow processes, and overall ecosystem characteristics was conducted. The results show that the energy flow in the Liaohe Estuary salt marsh wetland ecosystem is mainly distributed in three integrated trophic levels. The utilization rates of trophic levels II and III are low, easily causing blockages in the lower trophic levels of the ecosystem’s energy flow. The total system throughput of the Liaohe Estuary salt marsh wetland ecosystem is 49,099.039 t·km²·a−1;. The system connectivity index and the system omnivory index are 0.207 and 0.109, respectively. Compared with other wetland systems, the ecosystem has a larger scale, but the overall ecosystem characteristic index reveals lower stability and complexity of the Liaohe Estuary salt marsh wetland system.
Risk score model for predicting mortality among patients with lung cancer
Authors: Huh Youn , Kim Hae-Rim , Kim Hwa Jung , Son Ki Young
Published: October 2024

Background

To develop an accurate mortality risk predictive model among patients with lung cancer.

Methods

The development cohort included 96,255 patients with lung cancer aged ≥19 years, who underwent a Korean National Health Insurance Service health check-up from 2005 to 2015. The validation cohort consisted of 18,432 patients (≥19 years) with lung cancer from another region. The outcome was all-cause mortality between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2020.

Results

Approximately 60.5% of the development cohort died within a median follow-up period of 2.32 (0.72–5.00) years. Risk score was highest in participants aged ≥65 years, followed by those who underwent treatment, had a history of emergency room visits, and were current smokers. Participants treated by surgery had the lowest risk score, followed by combined surgery and chemotherapy, combined surgery and radiation therapy, women, and regular exercisers. The C statistic in the development and validation cohorts was 0.78 (95% confidence interval, 0.77–0.78) and 0.81 (95% confidence interval, 0.78–0.84), respectively.

Conclusion

Advanced age, lung cancer stage, and treatment type were strong risk factors of mortality in lung cancer patients, while being a woman and exercise were preventive factors. These will aid in the prediction of mortality and management of lung cancer patients.
Possibility of diagnosing rotator cuff tears in areas with scarce medical resources: can non-standard anteroposterior radiographs accurately predict rotator cuff tears?
Authors: Xiong Feng , Zhang Wenbin , Lu Feilong , Feng Jie , Wang Lu , Xiang Yulu , Wang Yongtao , Hu Yimei
Published: October 2024

Background

Due to the scarcity and high cost of MRI in resource-constrained regions, prompt diagnosis and treatment of rotator cuff tears remain problematic in these areas. Therefore, extensive research has been conducted to predict rotator cuff tears using simple and affordable anteroposterior radiographs. It remains unclear whether non-standard anteroposterior radiographs would have a notable impact on the preciseness of the diagnosis.

Method

We analyzed patients treated for shoulder pain at hospitals. These patients underwent shoulder joint MRI and standard anteroposterior radiographs, were categorized into those with rotator cuff tears and a control group. We assessed whether the radiographs were standard anteroposterior radiographs using classification criteria from previous studies. Three assessors independently measured the acromiohumeral interval, upwards migration index, acromion index, critical shoulder angle, and double-circle radius ratio in radiographic images. The intraclass correlation coefficient and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess measurement reliability and predictive capabilities of each predictive method for rotator cuff tears.

Results

This study included 102 non-standard radiographs that met the research criteria for the measurement and analysis. The intragroup correlation coefficients for the acromiohumeral interval, upwards migration index, and double-circle radius ratio were above 0.7 (0.77, 0.71, 0.76), while those for the acromion index and critical shoulder angle exceeded 0.8 (0.86 and 0.87). In non-standard radiographs, the double-circle radius ratio reliably predicted rotator cuff tears (p < 0.05), contrary to the other methods (p > 0.05). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of the double-circle radius ratio, estimated by the three researchers for rotator cuff tears.

Conclusion

This study found that non-standard radiographs significantly impaired the diagnostic performance of the acromiohumeral interval, upwards migration index, acromion index, and critical shoulder angle. Only the double-circle radius ratio maintained its predictive power (although this diminished capability may fall short of clinical relevance) and demonstrated high applicability. These findings indicate the need for researchers to prioritize the quality of radiographs and focus on reducing the sensitivity of the prediction method in relation to radiograph quality. The capability exhibited by the double-circle radius ratio warrants further investigation, to facilitate a simplified diagnosis of rotator cuff tears.
Preliminary study on Cyclocodon lancifolius leaf blight and screening of Bacillus subtilis as a biocontrol agent
Authors: Yang Xin , Dang You-chao , Chen Jing-zhong , Xu Ke-cheng , Dai Dao-die , Sun Qing-wen
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to identify the pathogen responsible for leaf blight in Cyclocodon lancifolius, investigate its biological characteristics, and identify effective synthetic fungicides. Additionally, this study examined changes in physiological and biochemical indices of leaves following pathogen infection and screened biocontrol bacteria that inhibit the pathogen growth, providing a scientific basis for preventing and managing leaf blight in C. lancifolius.

Methods

Pathogens were isolated from the interface of healthy and infected leaf tissues and identified through morphological and molecular biological methods. Amplification and sequencing of three genomic DNA regions—internal transcribed spacer region, translation elongation factor 1-α, and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase of ribosomal DNA—were performed, followed by the construction of a phylogenetic tree. The biological characteristics of pathogens under various temperature and pH conditions and different nitrogen and carbon sources were analyzed using the mycelial growth rate method. The antifungal effects of 13 chemical agents were evaluated using the poisoned medium method and mycelial growth rate method. Changes in physiological and biochemical indicators post-infection were also assessed. An antagonistic experiment was conducted to screen for biocontrol bacteria.

Results

A total of 29 potential pathogenic strains were isolated from infected leaf tissues, with Koch’s Postulates confirming Stemphylium lycopersici as a key pathogen causing the disease. Growth analysis of S. lycopersici revealed optimal growth at 20°C and pH 6, with lactose or maltose serving as the most suitable carbon source and histidine as the preferred nitrogen source. Among the 13 synthetic fungicides tested, strain DHY4 exhibited the greatest sensitivity to 400  g/L flusilazole. Significant differences (p  < 0.05) were observed in superoxide dismutase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, catalase, and malondialdehyde levels between treated and control groups 3  days post-inoculation. The biocontrol strain DYHS2, identified as a strain of Bacillus subtilis, demonstrated an inhibition rate of 51.80% against S. lycopersici in dual-culture experiments and showed a relative inhibition rate of 78.82% in detached leaf assays.

Discussion

These findings provide valuable insights into the newly identified causal agent of leaf blight in C. lancifolius and its biological characteristics, underscoring the potential of B. subtilis DYHS2 and synthetic fungicides such as flusilazole as effective disease management strategies.
Effect of xylo-oligosaccharides on intestinal bacterial diversity in mice with spleen deficiency constipation
Authors: Ao Xiang , Zhang Zeying
Published: October 2024

Objective

To explore the effect of xylo-oligosaccharides on intestinal bacterial diversity in mice with spleen deficiency constipation.

Methods

The 16S rDNA sequencing was used to identify microbiota composition in four groups, including the normal group (NG), the model group with spleen-deficiency constipation (SDC), XOS treated groups that include XOS1 groups treated XOS 0.05 g/mL•d, and XOS2 group treated XOS 0.1 g/mL•d. Chao1 and Shannon were used to conduct gut microbes diversity analysis. Linear discriminant analysis coupled with effect size measurements (LEfSe) was used to identify signature gut microbiota, and phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved states (PICRUSt) was used to predict the function of altered gut microbiota.

Results

Veen map indicated 245 common OTUs were identified from four groups. Especially, 9, 3, 0, and 19 unique OTUs were identified in NG, SDC, XOS1, and XOS2 groups, respectively. The Shannon index was evidently higher in NG group than in the other three groups (p < 0.05). We identified the occurrence of dominant bacterial groups including Bacteroidetes (25.5 ~ 49.9%), Firmicutes (25.4 ~ 39.3%), Proteobacteria (12.5 ~ 24.9%), Deferribacteres (1.6 ~ 19.2%), Cyanobacteria (0.3 ~ 1.8%), Verrucomicrobia (0.02 ~ 1.6%), Actinobacteria (0.01 ~ 0.5%), and Tenericutes (0.03 ~ 0.09%) at the four groups. The XOS2 group was characterized by a higher abundance of Peptostreptococcaceae, Intestinibacter, Aerococcaceae, and Facklamia. XOS1 group enriched in Deferribacteres, Mucispirillum, Deferribacterales, Deferribacteres, Lachnoclostridium, Rhodospirillaceae, and Rhodospirillales. Meanwhile, the SDC mice showed dramatic enrichment in Rikenellaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Rikenellaceae, Roseburia, and Alistipes, which were highly abundant in the NG group. XOS fed-mice evidently increase Deferribcteres abundance compared with NG and SDC groups. However, the abundance of Rikenellaceae was significantly reduced in XOS1 and XOS2 groups compared with NG and SDC groups. We identified that altered gut microbiotas by XOS treatment were associated with various metabolic pathways, including organismal systems, metabolism, human diseases, genetic information processing, and cellular processes.

Conclusion

Our research indicated that XOS has the potential to recover intestinal bacteria and contribute to the treatment of spleen deficiency constipation.
Profiling of the serum MiRNAome in pediatric egyptian patients with wilms tumor
Authors: Mohamed Fatma S. , Jalal Deena , Fadel Youssef M. , El-Mashtoly Samir F. , Khaled Wael Z. , Sayed Ahmed A. , Ghazy Mohamed A.
Published: October 2024

Wilms tumor (WT) is a pediatric kidney cancer associated with poor outcomes in patients with unfavorable histological features such as anaplasia. Small non-coding RNAs, such as miRNAs, are known to be involved in WT pathogenesis. However, research on the clinical potential of blood-based miRNAs is limited. This study aimed to profile aberrantly expressed miRNAs in WT serum samples, evaluate their potential to differentiate standard-risk patients with favorable histology from those with anaplastic WTs, and assess their clinical value as minimally invasive biomarkers for WT detection. The study used next-generation sequencing (NGS) to analyze miRNA expressions in serum samples from 37 Egyptian children, including 10 healthy individuals, 14 with non-anaplastic WTs (favorable histology FH-WTs), and 13 with anaplastic WTs (unfavorable histology UnFH-WTs). Functional enrichment analysis was conducted to identify critical pathways and biological processes affected by dysregulated miRNAs, and a network was created for the most promising miRNA-target interactions linked to WT. The study identified a distinct miRNA expression signature of 45 miRNAs (3 upregulated and 42 downregulated) in WT serum samples compared to healthy controls, with 29 miRNAs exclusively dysregulated in FH-WTs and 6 miRNAs dysregulated solely in UnFH-WTs. These dysregulated miRNAs displayed significant enrichment in cancer-related pathways, such as PI3K/AKT, FOXO, and MAPK signaling. In relation to WT clinicopathological features, decreased levels of hsa-miR-2355-3p showed a significant positive correlation with clinical stage (r = 0.6597, p = 0.0006) and WT metastasis (r = 0.439, p = 0.021). The ROC curve analysis revealed that multiple dysregulated miRNAs in WT, specifically hsa-miR-7-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p, hsa-miR-378a-3p, and hsa-miR-483-5p, exhibited high diagnostic potential for WT, with AUC values exceeding 0.86. Among WT histopathology types, the hsa-miR-1180-3p showed a 2.3 log2fold difference in expression between UnFH-WTs and FH-WTs, indicating its potential as a biomarker with 92% sensitivity and 85% specificity for identifying UnFH-WTs. Its target genes were enriched in pathways related to cell division and cell cycle regulation. In conclusion, hsa-miR-1180-3p could be a reliable blood-based biomarker for distinguishing WT histopathological types, and further research is needed to validate its clinical value.
Machine learning-based personalized composite score dissects risk and protective factors for cognitive and motor function in older participants
Authors: Schalkamp Ann-Kathrin , Lerche Stefanie , Wurster Isabel , Roeben Benjamin , Zimmermann Milan , Fries Franca , von Thaler Anna-Katharina , Eschweiler Gerhard , Maetzler Walter , Berg Daniela , Sinz Fabian H. , Brockmann Kathrin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

With age, sensory, cognitive, and motor abilities decline, and the risk for neurodegenerative disorders increases. These impairments influence the quality of life and increase the need for care, thus putting a high burden on society, the economy, and the healthcare system. Therefore, it is important to identify factors that influence healthy aging, particularly ones that are potentially modifiable through lifestyle choices. However, large-scale studies investigating the influence of multi-modal factors on a global description of healthy aging measured by multiple clinical assessments are sparse.

Methods

We propose a machine learning model that simultaneously predicts multiple cognitive and motor outcome measurements on a personalized level recorded from one learned composite score. This personalized composite score is derived from a large set of multi-modal components from the TREND cohort, including genetic, biofluid, clinical, demographic, and lifestyle factors.

Results

We found that a model based on a single composite score was able to predict cognitive and motor abilities almost as well as a classical flexible regression model specifically trained for each single clinical score. In contrast to the flexible regression model, our composite score model is able to identify factors that globally influence cognitive and motoric abilities as measured by multiple clinical scores. The model identified several risk and protective factors for healthy aging and recovered physical exercise as a major, modifiable, protective factor.

Discussion

We conclude that our low parametric modeling approach successfully recovered known risk and protective factors of healthy aging on a personalized level while providing an interpretable composite score. We suggest validating this modeling approach in other cohorts.
Comparison of microvascular decompression and percutaneous balloon compression efficacy in patients with V2 idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Ji Ye , Wang Junwu
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aims to compare the efficacy and long-term prognosis of microvascular decompression (MVD) versus percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) in patients with idiopathic V2 (maxillary branch) trigeminal neuralgia.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical information and follow-up data of patients who underwent surgical treatment for V2 idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia from January 2020 to January 2023. A total of 58 patients were included in the MVD group and 99 in the PBC group. All surgeries were performed by two physicians at the same center, with follow-up conducted by a separate, trained researcher. We compared the initial versus 12-month postoperative pain relief rates (scored using the BNI), surgical complications, and described pain relief rates after long-term follow-up in both groups using Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

The study included a total of 157 patients (MVD 58, PBC 99). The median age of patients in the MVD group was lower than that in the PBC group (58 [51–65] vs. 63 [58–69], p = 0.002). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of pain relief rates initially after surgery and at 12 months (p = 0.521, p = 0.713). However, the MVD group had significantly better outcomes regarding postoperative facial numbness (p < 0.0001), masticatory weakness (p = 0.0017), and other complications (p = 0.04). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that MVD provided a longer duration of pain relief than PBC (p = 0.0323), with most recurrences in both groups occurring within 1–2 years after surgery.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences in significant pain relief rates between the two groups initially after surgery and at 12 months. However, the MVD group showed a clear advantage over PBC regarding postoperative facial numbness, masticatory weakness, and other complications; moreover, Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that MVD offers a longer duration of pain relief for patients.
Anatomy-guided resections for paralimbic tumors in the temporo-insular region: combining tumor and epilepsy surgery concepts
Authors: Alkassm Emad , Grote Alexander , Berger Björn , Woermann Friedrich G. , Ersoy Tunc Faik , Coras Roland , Kalbhenn Thilo , Simon Matthias
Published: October 2024

Object

Tumors in the temporo-mesial region often extend into the insula and vice versa. The present study investigated the results of a surgical strategy that combines principles of tumor and epilepsy surgery.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 157 consecutive patients with intrinsic brain tumors in the temporo-mesial region, with varying degrees of extensions into the insula (44 patients, 28.0%). The surgical strategy utilized “anatomy-guided resection,” targeting specific anatomical compartments infiltrated by the tumor (e.g., temporal pole, anterior temporo-mesial region = uncus and hippocampal head, posterior temporo-mesial, insula) rather than treating the tumor as a single mass.

Results

The most frequent histologies were ganglioglioma CNS WHO grade 1 (55 patients, 35.0%) and IDH1 wildtype glioblastoma (36 patients, 22.9%). Tumor infiltration was most commonly found in the anterior temporo-mesial compartment (145 patients, 92.4%). An anterior temporal lobectomy was part of the surgical strategy in 131 cases (83.4%). Seventy-six patients (48.4%) with drug-resistant epilepsy underwent a formal presurgical epilepsy work-up, including depth electrode placement in three cases. Complete resections were achieved in 117 patients (74.5%), with supramarginal resections performed in 89 cases (56.7%). Four patients experienced non-temporary neurological complications (CTCAE grade 3–5). At 6 months, 127 of 147 assessable patients (86.4%) were free from seizures or auras (ILAE class 1), excluding early postoperative seizures (<30 days). At 24 months, 122 of 144 assessable cases (84.7%) remained seizure-free (ILAE class 1). Kaplan–Meier estimates for 5-year overall survival were 98.5% for non-recurrent glioneuronal tumors. The 2-year overall survival estimates were 96.0% for 24 primary diffuse CNS WHO grade 2 and 3 gliomas and 55.2% for 30 patients undergoing first surgeries for glioblastomas/astrocytomas CNS WHO grade 4.

Conclusion

Combining both epilepsy and tumor surgery concepts in the surgical treatment of intrinsic brain tumors involving the mesial temporal lobe, often extending into the insula, led to more extensive resections, improved seizure outcomes, and potentially even better patient survival outcomes.
Thalamic functional dysconnectivity in patients with left-hemisphere chronic capsular and pontine stroke
Authors: Guo Jun , Zhang Hongchuan , Liu Jingchun , Wang Caihong , Cao Chen , Cheng Jingliang , Yu Chunshui , Qin Wen
Published: October 2024

Background

Through its extensive connection with the cortex, the thalamus constitutes the hub of cortico-subcortical circuits and participants in multi-dimensional functions. However, the differential involvements of thalamic functional connectivity in chronic capsular and pontine stroke are still unknown.

Methods

The research recruited 66 left-lesion chronic stroke patients, including 46 capsular strokes (CS) and 20 pontine stroke (PS) patients, and 67 normal controls (NC). The thalamic subfields functional connectivities were compared between groups using a two-way repeated analysis of variance (ANOVA), corrected for confounders including age, gender, education and scanners. Spearman partial correlation was used to explore the potential association between altered thalamic FC and clinical variables.

Results

The ipsilesional thalamus of CS patients had abnormally decreased FC with widespread cognitive-related areas while increased FC with visual- and somatic-motor areas. In contrast, the ipsilesional thalamus of PS patients mainly demonstrated increased FC in these sensorimotor areas. Even in the contralesional thalamus, we observed similar (with the ipsilesional) but less extensive functional dysconnectivity patterns in both the CS and PS patients (P < 0.05, corrected using family-wise error [FWE] at the voxel level). Finally, we found significant group x subfields interactions on thalamic functional connectivity, where capsular vs. pontine stroke demonstrate varied functional dysconnectivity with specific thalamic subfields. Finally, a weak correlation was found between FC of both ipsilesional/contralesional thalamic subfields and motor, working and verbal memory.

Conclusions

The thalamic functional dysconnectivity after chronic stroke are lesion-location and subfields dependent. Moreover, functional dysconnectivity were shown in both the ipsilesional and contralesional thalamus with similar patterns.
Pharmacological targeting of smoothened receptor cysteine-rich domain by Budesonide promotes in vitro myelination
Authors: Recchia Antonella Damiana , Dominicis Alessandra , D'Amore Vincenzo Maria , Fabiano Tommaso , Al Jaf Aland Ibrahim Ahmed , Peria Simone , Basoli Francesco , Rainer Alberto , Marinelli Luciana , Di Leva Francesco Saverio , Ragnini-Wilson Antonella
Published: October 2024

Background

The myelin sheath ensures efficient nerve impulse transmission along the axons. Remyelination is a spontaneous process that restores axonal insulation, promoting neuroprotection and recovery after myelin damage. There is an urgent need for new pharmacological approaches to remyelination and to improve the most effective molecules. Some glucocorticoids (GC) were identified through phenotypical screens for their promyelinating properties. These GC compounds share the ability to bind the Smoothened (Smo) receptor of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway. Gaining a deeper insight into how they modulate Smo receptor activity could guide structure-based studies to leverage the GCs’ potent promyelinating activity for a more targeted approach to remyelination.

Methods

Here we focused on clarifying the mechanism of action of Budesonide, a GC known to bind the Smo cysteine-rich domain (CRD) and prevent Smo translocation to the cilium in fibroblasts. Our study employed a combination of cellular, biochemical and molecular dynamics approaches.

Results

We show that treating oligodendroglial cells with Budesonide promotes myelination of synthetic axons and reduces Smo CRD conformational flexibility. This inhibits the Smo-mediated canonical signaling while activating the Liver Kinase B1 (LKB1)/ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, leading to Myelin basic protein (MBP) expression.

Discussion

These insights pave the way for pharmacological targeting of Smo CRD to enhance oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) differentiation and improve remyelination.
Drug-drug-interactions in patients with atrial fibrillation admitted to the emergency department
Authors: Bischof Thorsten , Nagele Fiona , Kalkofen Marius M. , Blechschmidt Maximilian E. O. , Domanovits Hans , Zeitlinger Markus , Schoergenhofer Christian , Cacioppo Filippo
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Polypharmacy is a growing concern in healthcare systems. While available data on potential drug-drug interactions (pDDI) from emergency department (ED) patients is derived from heterogenous populations, this study specifically focused on patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). We hypothesized that patients with AF have similar comorbidities, receive similar drugs, and have similar pDDIs. The overarching aim was to highlight frequent pDDIs, providing practical guidance for treating healthcare professionals and consequently reduce the risk of adverse drug reactions.

Methods

Two hundred patients ≥18 years with AF, who received rate- or rhythm-controlling medication at the ED of the University Hospital Vienna, and who were on long-term medication before admission, were eligible. Long-term medication alone, as well as in combination with medication administered at the ED were analyzed for pDDIs using the Lexicomp® Drug interactions database.

Results

Within the long-term medication of patients’, we identified 664 pDDIs. Drugs administered at the ED increased pDDIs more than 3-fold to 2085. Approximately, every fifth patient received a contraindicated drug combination (on average 0.24 per patient), while 70% received drug combinations for which therapy modifications are recommended (on average 1.59 per patient). The most frequently involved drugs included amiodarone, propofol, bisoprolol, enoxaparin, and acetylsalicylic acid. Increased risk of bleeding, QTc prolongation, and myopathy were among the most relevant potential consequences of these interactions.

Discussion

In conclusion, an optimization of medication would be advisable in almost every AF patient. Treating healthcare professionals should be cautious of drugs that increase bleeding risk, prolong QTc, or bear a risk for myopathy.
Nationwide usage of ethambutol and incidence and screening practices of optic neuropathy
Authors: Kim Jiyeong , Kwon Hyeon Yoon , Ahn Seong Joon
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Ethambutol, a key anti-tuberculosis medication, is associated with optic neuropathy, which can lead to significant vision impairment. This population-based cohort study investigated the nationwide usage of ethambutol and the incidence and screening of optic neuropathy among ethambutol users.

Methods

The cohort included 206,157 individuals from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment database in South Korea who initiated ethambutol therapy between 1 January 2015, and 31 December 2021. Among them, 117,309 individuals without prior ophthalmic diseases were analyzed to investigate practice patterns. The timing of the baseline examinations (an ophthalmic examination immediately preceding [within 1 month] ethambutol initiation or the first ophthalmic assessment conducted after the initiation) and subsequent monitoring and modalities used were assessed.

Results

The cumulative incidences of the optic neuropathy categories, overall optic neuropathy, optic neuropathy/optic neuritis, and optic atrophy, were analyzed. The annual number of ethambutol users declined over time between 2015 and 2021. The cumulative incidences of overall optic neuropathy, optic neuropathy/optic neuritis, and optic atrophy were 2.8%, 2.0%, and 0.7%, respectively. Optical coherence tomography usage for ophthalmic examinations remarkably increased from 23.9% in 2015 to 85.5% in 2021, while visual field examinations were frequently (69.6%) employed for functional assessment at the time of diagnosis. Baseline screening within 6 months of initiating ethambutol therapy was performed in 12.0%–13.1% of ethambutol initiators annually over the study period. The percentage of ethambutol initiators receiving subsequent monitoring within 6 months following baseline screening declined over time, from 13.1% in 2015 to 7.9% in 2021.

Discussion

The diminishing trend in monitoring emphasizes the need for improved pharmacovigilance to reduce the risk of optic atrophy and blindness through early detection.
The relationship between BMI and physical fitness among 7451 college freshmen: a cross-sectional study in Beijing, China
Authors: Guo Tongtong , Shen Siqin , Yang Sanjun , Yang Fan
Published: October 2024

Objective

To identify trends in physical fitness test scores of college freshmen and their physical fitness from 2018 to 2021, and to analyze the relationship between college students’ Body Mass Index (BMI) and Physical Fitness Index (PFI).

Methods

This study obtained physical fitness test data from 7,541 freshmen at a university in Beijing, China, from 2018 to 2021. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the physical fitness indicators among different BMI levels by gender. A nonlinear quadratic regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between BMI and each indicator within gender groups.

Results

The BMI of freshmen in China was generally increased over the study period, and BMI levels influenced students’ physical fitness indexes to varying degrees. BMI was significantly correlated with the physical fitness indexes and PFI. The increase in BMI had a greater influence on the PFI of males than females.

Conclusion

Students with a normal BMI show better physical fitness. A BMI below or above the normal range may result in poor physical fitness. The relationship between BMI and PFI has an inverted u-shaped curve. Physical education programs should be tailored to students with different fitness levels and fundamentals, including but not limited to the development of strength, speed, and other qualities.
Precision agriculture with YOLO-Leaf: advanced methods for detecting apple leaf diseases
Authors: Li Tong , Zhang Liyuan , Lin Jianchu
Published: October 2024

The detection of apple leaf diseases plays a crucial role in ensuring crop health and yield. However, due to variations in lighting and shadow, as well as the complex relationships between perceptual fields and target scales, current detection methods face significant challenges. To address these issues, we propose a new model called YOLO-Leaf. Specifically, YOLO-Leaf utilizes Dynamic Snake Convolution (DSConv) for robust feature extraction, employs BiFormer to enhance the attention mechanism, and introduces IF-CIoU to improve bounding box regression for increased detection accuracy and generalization ability. Experimental results on the FGVC7 and FGVC8 datasets show that YOLO-Leaf significantly outperforms existing models in terms of detection accuracy, achieving mAP50 scores of 93.88% and 95.69%, respectively. This advancement not only validates the effectiveness of our approach but also highlights its practical application potential in agricultural disease detection.
The role of socio-emotional attributes in enhancing human-AI collaboration
Authors: Kolomaznik Michal , Petrik Vladimir , Slama Michal , Jurik Vojtech
Published: October 2024

This article delves into the dynamics of human interaction with artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the optimization of these interactions to enhance human productivity. Employing a Grounded Theory Literature Review (GTLR) methodology, the study systematically identifies and analyzes themes from literature published between 2018 and 2023. Data were collected primarily from the Scopus database, with the Web of Science used to corroborate findings and include additional sources identified through a snowball effect. At the heart of this exploration is the pivotal role of socio-emotional attributes such as trust, empathy, rapport, user engagement, and anthropomorphization—elements crucial for the successful integration of AI into human activities. By conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature and incorporating case studies, this study illuminates how AI systems can be designed and employed to foster deeper trust and empathetic understanding between humans and machines. The analysis reveals that when AI systems are attuned to human emotional and cognitive needs, there is a marked improvement in collaborative efficiency and productivity. Furthermore, the paper discusses the ethical implications and potential societal impacts of fostering such human-AI relationships. It argues for a paradigm shift in AI development—from focusing predominantly on technical proficiency to embracing a more holistic approach that values the socio-emotional aspects of human-AI interaction. This shift could pave the way for more meaningful and productive collaborations between humans and AI, ultimately leading to advancements that are both technologically innovative and human-centric.
A study of a PERMA-based positive psychological intervention programme in subthreshold depressed patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer: formulation and application
Authors: Wang Deju , Li Bin , Xin Hongmei , Wu Xiaofei , Xia Jieqiong
Published: October 2024

Background

Depression seriously affects the quality of life of breast cancer patients and even hinders treatment and recovery after diagnosis. Subthreshold depression should be worthy of attention, and the risk of subthreshold depression developing into depression increases if timely intervention is not available. However, there is limited research on interventions for subthreshold depression, especially for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.

Objective

Exploring the efficacy of a PERMA-based positive psychological intervention programme in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with subthreshold depression.

Methods

Using PERMA as a framework, we constructed the intervention programme through a literature review and expert discussion approach, and revised the programme using the Delphi method. Then we selected 84 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients for a randomised controlled trial. The control group received conventional care (primary care, specialist care, psychological care, etc.), and the observation group received a PERMA-based positive psychological intervention programme. Patient data were collected before and after the intervention, and the dataset consisted of patient responses to general information, the Depression Screening Scale (CES-D), the Hamilton Depression Inventory (HAMD-17), and the Questionnaire on Psychosocial Adjustment in Breast Cancer Patients.

Results

A total of 79 patients completed the study (38 patients in the observation group and 41 patients in the control group), and before the intervention, there were no statistical differences in the comparison of general information, subthreshold depression scores, and psychosocial adaptation scores between the two groups (p > 0.05). After the intervention, the subthreshold depression (CES-D and HAMD-17 scores) scores of the observation group were lower than those of the control group (p < 0.01), and the psychosocial adaptation scores were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

A positive psychological intervention programme using PERMA as a framework was more effective in reducing subthreshold depression levels and promoting levels of psychosocial adjustment in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.

Implications for practice

Interventions for subthreshold depression are not limited to the traditional aftercare model, but rather from a positive psychology perspective. Especially for patients newly diagnosed with breast cancer, this is a new endeavour that has important implications for them. Because, instead of focusing on their negative emotions, we help them gradually adapt to their new identity and treatment process from a positive aspect during their most difficult period, thus reducing their subthreshold depression level and preventing it from developing into a more severe depression.
Sleep patterns and their associations with psychiatric symptoms among Chinese healthcare workers: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Xiang Yingjun , Wei Shujuan , Sun Xiaoya , Yang Weiting , Han Yaohui , Wu Xuanzhen
Published: October 2024

Background

Healthcare workers often encounter inadequate sleep conditions. However, limited research has examined the underlying sleep patterns among healthcare workers. This study aimed to identify sleep patterns in healthcare workers, explore predictors associated with various sleep patterns, and investigate the relationship between sleep patterns and psychiatric symptoms.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Shenzhen, China, from April 2023 to June 2023. In total, data from 1,292 participants were included using a convenience sampling method. A latent profile analysis was conducted to identify sleep patterns based on the seven dimensions of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the influence of socio-demographic variables on each profile. A one-way ANOVA test was employed to examine the relationships between sleep patterns and psychiatric symptoms.

Results

Three distinct profiles were identified: good sleepers (63.9%), inefficient sleepers (30.3%), and poor sleepers (5.7%). Multinomial logistic regression analysis indicated that gender and marital status were predictors of various sleep patterns. The ANOVA revealed significant differences in psychiatric symptoms scores among the three sleep patterns; poor sleepers exhibited the highest levels of mental distress.

Conclusion

This study identified three distinct sleep patterns in healthcare workers and their significant associations with psychiatric symptoms. These findings contribute to the development of targeted intervention strategies aimed at improving sleep and reducing psychiatric symptoms among healthcare workers.
Prevalence, correlates, and comorbidities of internet gaming disorder and problematic game use: national mental health survey of Korea 2021
Authors: Ko Young-Mi , Lee Eun Sol , Park Subin
Published: October 2024

Background

This study investigated the prevalence, correlates, and comorbidities of Internet Gaming Disorder and problematic game use among the general population in Korea.

Methods

The data of 2,764 individuals aged 18 to 49 years who participated in the National Mental Health Survey of Korea 2021 were analyzed. The diagnostic assessments were based on the Structured Clinical Interview for Internet Gaming Disorder and the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. The Game Overuse Screening Questionnaire assessed problematic game use. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed, and a complex sampling design analysis was applied.

Results

The 12-month prevalence rate of Internet gaming disorder (IGD) was 0.8% and the 1-month prevalence rate of problematic game use was 8.4%. IGD was higher in men, younger people, unemployed, and in those with low physical activity, dissatisfaction with their quality of life, and who perceived more loneliness and social isolation. While both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) were significantly associated with IGD, only ADHD was significantly associated with problematic game use.

Conclusion

IGD and problematic game use are relatively prevalent in the Korean adult population and are comorbid with AUD and ADHD. Therefore, a preventive strategy for IGD and problematic game use is needed for game users who are more likely to be addicted, such as younger male users. In addition, mental health screening and appropriate treatment for both game addiction and comorbid psychiatric disorders should be provided to individuals with IGD and problematic game use.
The refugee and migrant health “global competency standards for health workers”: results of a survey in general practitioner trainees in Sicily
Authors: Cimino Livia , Pirrello Alessandra , Casuccio Alessandra , Costantino Claudio , Graci Davide , Piazza Nicolò , Immordino Palmira
Published: October 2024

Background

Refugees and migrants may represent the most vulnerable communities in many societies. Health systems should be sensitive to needs of refugees and migrants. The document “The Refugee and Migrant Health: Global Competency Standards for Health Workers (the Standards)” identifies the competencies and areas of practice of health workers working with refugees and migrants. The aim of this study is to provide an analysis of these competences and training needs, identifying the educational priorities for the implementation of the Standards in Sicily, Italy.

Methods

A cross-sectional analytical pilot study was conducted by administering a questionnaire, in electronic format “Google Form ®,” to doctors attending the Medical Training Course for General Practitioners in Sicily (Italy). Data obtained were collected in a Microsoft Excel database and analyzed with IBM SPSS Software 24 version. Absolute and relative frequencies were calculated for relevant categorical variables. Univariate analysis of the selected variables was subsequently carried out. The significance level chosen was a p value <0.05 (two-tailed).

Results

A total of 192 General Practitioner (GP) trainees responded to the questionnaire. They were asked if their training course comprised a Global Health Course that included the topic of health protection and social and health care for migrant populations and the 65.4% of them answered “No” or “Do not Know.” GP trainees were also asked if they considered useful to include a Global Health Course dedicated to the management of patients with a migratory background within the training course in general medicine. Of the total 192 participants, 81.9% answered “Yes.” Overall, in a simple regression model, the perception of having addressed migrants’ health needs is positively correlated with having attended a Global Health Course (OR = 3.34 95%CI 1.2–9.1; p = 0.018).

Conclusion

This study identified educational priorities for the implementation of the Standards in Sicily for doctors attending the Medical Training Course for General Practitioners. We hope that the results of this study will guide and inform possible future projects to implement the Standards at a national level.
The impact of confirmation bias awareness on mitigating susceptibility to misinformation
Authors: Piksa Michal , Noworyta Karolina , Gundersen Aleksander , Kunst Jonas , Morzy Mikolaj , Piasecki Jan , Rygula Rafal
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In the current digital age, the proliferation of misinformation presents a formidable challenge to a democratic society. False narratives surrounding vaccination efforts pose a significant public health risk. Understanding the role of cognitive biases in susceptibility to misinformation is crucial in addressing this challenge. Confirmation bias, characterized by the tendency to favor information that aligns with pre-existing beliefs or attitudes, can exacerbate the spread of false narratives.

Methods

This study investigates the effect of confirmation bias awareness on susceptibility to general misinformation. For this, a sample of 1,479 participants was recruited, ensuring diverse representation across attitudes towards vaccination. Half of the participants received targeted information about confirmation bias, aimed at increasing awareness of this bias and its potential impact on cognitive processing of information. The other half did not receive this information.

Results

Results from the study indicated that participants exposed to an intervention aimed at inducing awareness of confirmation bias demonstrated reduced susceptibility to misinformation and increased ability to general discernment of veracity. Notably, these effects were only pronounced among individuals who initially were most negative towards COVID-19 vaccines.

Discussion

These insights provide a foundation for developing targeted strategies to promote informed decision-making and mitigate the spread of misinformation, particularly in the context of public health crises. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms driving these effects and to refine intervention approaches for diverse populations and contexts.
COVID-19 incidence and cardiorespiratory fitness among first-year college students
Authors: Alvaro Catherine E. , Levers Kyle S. , Barberio Matthew D. , Jin Yichen , Stranieri Andrew M. , Sacheck Jennifer M.
Published: October 2024

Objective

With the emergence of the COVID-19 virus, there was a widespread infection rate among college campuses, creating a need to understand the impact of COVID-19 infection on the health and wellbeing of adolescents. The aim of this study was to examine COVID-19 incidence and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) among undergraduate students in the 2 years post-COVID-19 pandemic lock-down.

Participants

Participants (n = 151) included undergraduate college freshmen students during the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 academic years.

Methods

A series of annual surveys (n = 151) and laboratory measures among a sub-sample of participants (n = 28) were conducted to assess COVID-19 incidence, CRF, anthropometrics, and physical activity (PA).

Results

Over half of participants self-reported COVID-19 infection (59%), “good” or better CRF, a healthy body mass index (BMI), and 25% met PA recommendations. Nearly a quarter, (24%) perceived a negative impact of COVID-19 on their CRF and although not statistically significant, participants who contracted COVID-19 had 46% lower odds of having a positive perception of CRF than those who did not contract COVID-19 before. However, students who were more physically active were more likely to perceive a negative impact of COVID-19 incidence on their CRF (p = 0.035).

Conclusion

Although no relationship was detected between COVID-19 and CRF, those who perceived a negative impact of COVID-19 on their CRF reported engaging in more physical activity.
Large language models for whole-learner support: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Mannekote Amogh , Davies Adam , Pinto Juan D. , Zhang Shan , Olds Daniel , Schroeder Noah L. , Lehman Blair , Zapata-Rivera Diego , Zhai ChengXiang
Published: October 2024

In recent years, large language models (LLMs) have seen rapid advancement and adoption, and are increasingly being used in educational contexts. In this perspective article, we explore the open challenge of leveraging LLMs to create personalized learning environments that support the “whole learner” by modeling and adapting to both cognitive and non-cognitive characteristics. We identify three key challenges toward this vision: (1) improving the interpretability of LLMs' representations of whole learners, (2) implementing adaptive technologies that can leverage such representations to provide tailored pedagogical support, and (3) authoring and evaluating LLM-based educational agents. For interpretability, we discuss approaches for explaining LLM behaviors in terms of their internal representations of learners; for adaptation, we examine how LLMs can be used to provide context-aware feedback and scaffold non-cognitive skills through natural language interactions; and for authoring, we highlight the opportunities and challenges involved in using natural language instructions to specify behaviors of educational agents. Addressing these challenges will enable personalized AI tutors that can enhance learning by accounting for each student's unique background, abilities, motivations, and socioemotional needs.