bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How movies move us – movie preferences are linked to differences in neuronal emotion processing of fear and anger: an fMRI study
Authors: Zwiky Esther , König Philine , Herrmann Rebekka Maria , Küttner Antonia , Selle Janine , Ptasczynski Lena Esther , Schöniger Konrad , Rutenkröger Mareike , Enneking Verena , Borgers Tiana , Klug Melissa , Dohm Katharina , Leehr Elisabeth J , Bauer Jochen , Dannlowski Udo , Redlich Ronny
Published: June 2024

Introduction

As a source of audio-visual stimulation, movies expose people to various emotions. Interestingly, several genres are characterized by negative emotional content. Albeit theoretical approaches exist, little is known about preferences for specific movie genres and the neuronal processing of negative emotions.

Methods

We investigated associations between movie genre preference and limbic and reward-related brain reactivity to close this gap by employing an fMRI paradigm with negative emotional faces in 257 healthy participants. We compared the functional activity of the amygdala and the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) between individuals with a preference for a particular movie genre and those without such preference.

Results and discussion

Amygdala activation was relatively higher in individuals with action movie preference (pTFCE-FWE = 0.013). Comedy genre preference was associated with increased amygdala (pTFCE-FWE = 0.038) and NAcc activity (pTFCE-FWE = 0.011). In contrast, crime/thriller preference (amygdala: pTFCE-FWE ≤ 0.010, NAcc: pTFCE-FWE = 0.036), as well as documentary preference, was linked to the decreased amygdala (pTFCE-FWE = 0.012) and NAcc activity (pTFCE-FWE = 0.015). The study revealed associations between participants’ genre preferences and brain reactivity to negative affective stimuli. Interestingly, preferences for genres with similar emotion profiles (action, crime/thriller) were associated with oppositely directed neural activity. Potential links between brain reactivity and susceptibility to different movie-related gratifications are discussed.
Optimization of robotic path planning and navigation point configuration based on convolutional neural networks
Authors: Wu Jian , Li Huan , Li Bangjie , Zheng Xiaolong , Zhang Daqiao
Published: June 2024

This study introduces a novel approach for enhancing robotic path planning and navigation by optimizing point configuration through convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Faced with the challenge of precise area coverage and the inefficiency of traditional traversal and intelligent algorithms (e.g., genetic algorithms, particle swarm optimization) in point layout, we proposed a CNN-based optimization model. This model not only tackles the issues of speed and accuracy in point configuration with Gaussian distribution characteristics but also significantly improves the robot's capability to efficiently navigate and cover designated areas with high precision. Our methodology begins with defining a coverage index, followed by an optimization model that integrates polygon image features with the variability of Gaussian distribution. The proposed CNN model is trained with datasets generated from systematic point configurations, which then predicts optimal layouts for enhanced navigation. Our method achieves an experimental result error of <8% on the test dataset. The results validate effectiveness of the proposed model in achieving efficient and accurate path planning for robotic systems.
Associations between renal function, hippocampal volume, and cognitive impairment in 544 outpatients
Authors: Wu Lei-Yun , Lu Yuan-Yuan , Zheng Shuang-Shuang , Cui Ya-Dong , Lu Jie , Zhang Ai-Hua
Published: June 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment and brain atrophy are common in chronic kidney disease patients. It remains unclear whether differences in renal function, even within normal levels, influence hippocampal volume (HCV) and cognition. We aimed to investigate the association between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), HCV and cognition in outpatients.

Methods

This single-center retrospective study enrolled 544 nonrenal outpatients from our hospital. All participants underwent renal function assessment and 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the same year. HCV was also measured, and cognitive assessments were obtained. The correlations between eGFR, HCV, and cognitive function were analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for hippocampal atrophy and cognitive impairment. Receiver-operator curves (ROCs) were performed to find the cut-off value of HCV that predicts cognitive impairment.

Results

The mean age of all participants was 66.5 ± 10.9 years. The mean eGFR of all participants was 88.5 ± 15.1 mL/min/1.73 m2. eGFR was positively correlated with HCV and with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed Age ≥ 65 years, eGFR < 75 mL/min/1.73 m2, Glucose ≥6.1 mmol/L and combined cerebral microvascular diseases were independent risk factors for hippocampal atrophy and Age ≥ 65 years, left hippocampal volume (LHCV) <2,654 mm3 were independent risk factors for cognitive impairment in outpatients. Although initial unadjusted logistic regression analysis indicated that a lower eGFR (eGFR < 75 mL/min/1.73 m2) was associated with poorer cognitive function, this association was lost after adjusting for confounding variables. ROC curve analysis demonstrated that LHCV <2,654 mm3 had the highest AUROC [(0.842, 95% CI: 0.808–0.871)], indicating that LHCV had a credible prognostic value with a high sensitivity and specificity for predicting cognitive impairment compared with age in outpatients.

Conclusion

Higher eGFR was associated with higher HCV and better cognitive function. eGFR < 75 mL/min/1.73 m2 was an independent risk factor for hippocampal atrophy after adjusting for age. It is suggested that even eGFR < 75 mL/min/1.73 m2, lower eGFR may still be associated with hippocampal atrophy, which is further associated with cognitive impairment. LHCV was a favorable prognostic marker for predicting cognitive impairment rather than age.
The knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards a plant-based dietary pattern: a survey of obstetrician-gynecologists
Authors: Landry Matthew J. , Ward Catherine P. , Koh Linda M. , Gardner Christopher D.
Published: June 2024

Background

Obstetricians-gynecologists (OB/GYNs) play a critical role for their pregnant patients during their perinatal period, but research on OB/GYNs knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding plant-based dietary patterns (PBDP) and how this may influence recommendations to patients is lacking. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted to examine OB/GYN’s knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards a PBDP.

Methods

Postcards were mailed in June 2023 to a convenience sample of 5,000 OB/GYNs across the US using a mailing list provided by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Postcards had a brief study description and a QR code that linked to an online survey asking questions about demographics, behavior (e.g., nutritional habits), and other factors that may influence knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards a PBDP for their patients.

Results

Ninety-six OB/GYNs completed the full questionnaire (~2% response rate). Most (92%) felt that it is within an OB/GYN’s role to incorporate nutrition education and counseling within practice. However, 72% felt inadequately trained to discuss nutrition and diet-related issues with patients. Despite a perceived lack of nutrition training, 86% reported that a PBDP was safe and health-promoting, and 81% reported that a well-planned PBDP could adequately meet all nutritional needs of pregnant and lactating patients.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that OB/GYNs are generally knowledgeable about the components and health benefits of a plant-based diets. However, nutrient adequacy misconceptions and lack of sufficient training to discuss nutrition with patients may result in OB/GYNs not recommending PBDPs to patients. These findings underscore the need to enhance OB/GYN graduate medical education and training by integrating education on PBDPs, therefore improving a clinician’s ability to confidently and effectively counsel pregnant persons on this aspect of perinatal care.
Homologous recombination proficient subtypes of high-grade serous ovarian cancer: treatment options for a poor prognosis group
Authors: Stiegeler Nadja , Garsed Dale W. , Au-Yeung George , Bowtell David D. L. , Heinzelmann-Schwarz Viola , Zwimpfer Tibor A.
Published: June 2024

Approximately 50% of tubo-ovarian high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSCs) have functional homologous recombination-mediated (HR) DNA repair, so-called HR-proficient tumors, which are often associated with primary platinum resistance (relapse within six months after completion of first-line therapy), minimal benefit from poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, and shorter survival. HR-proficient tumors comprise multiple molecular subtypes including cases with CCNE1 amplification, AKT2 amplification or CDK12 alteration, and are often characterized as “cold” tumors with fewer infiltrating lymphocytes and decreased expression of PD-1/PD-L1. Several new treatment approaches aim to manipulate these negative prognostic features and render HR-proficient tumors more susceptible to treatment. Alterations in multiple different molecules and pathways in the DNA damage response are driving new drug development to target HR-proficient cancer cells, such as inhibitors of the CDK or P13K/AKT pathways, as well as ATR inhibitors. Treatment combinations with chemotherapy or PARP inhibitors and agents targeting DNA replication stress have shown promising preclinical and clinical results. New approaches in immunotherapy are also being explored, including vaccines or antibody drug conjugates. Many approaches are still in the early stages of development and further clinical trials will determine their clinical relevance. There is a need to include HR-proficient tumors in ovarian cancer trials and to analyze them in a more targeted manner to provide further evidence for their specific therapy, as this will be crucial in improving the overall prognosis of HGSC and ovarian cancer in general.
An academic achievements visualization research in the past 30 years: research on rehabilitation for head and neck cancer
Authors: Zhou Bo , Li Dian , Cheng Jingyi , Deng Kexin
Published: June 2024

Background

Head and neck cancer acts as the sixth most common malignant tumor worldwide with an increasing incidence. The needs and methods of its rehabilitation are diverse and constantly evolving.

Objective

This study aims to provide an in-depth depiction and visualization of the knowledge structure, hotspots, and emerging trends within the domain in the past 30 years through utilizing bibliometric analysis.

Methods

The literature about rehabilitation for head and neck cancer in Web of Science was collected. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to analyze main countries, institutions, authors, journals, subject hotspots, trends, frontiers, etc.

Results

A total of 1869 papers have been published since 1994. These publications were written by 874 authors from 514 institutions in 74 countries. The United States published 397 papers in this field and ranked first. Head & Neck is the most widely published journal, with Finizia, Caterina as the core author. The main keyword clustering includes terms such as #0 mandibular reconstruction (2009); #1 functional impairment (2014); #2 device lifetime (2006); #3 head and neck cancer (2003); #4 maxillofacial prosthetics (2004); #5 squamous cell carcinoma (2002); #6 readiness for return to work (2009); #7 total laryngopharyngectomy (2004). The current research frontier that has been sustained is “survivors”, “reliability”, and “meta analysis”.

Conclusion

We reveal the current status, hotspots, and trends in the field of rehabilitation for head and neck cancer. And we provided new academic insights into the characteristics and limitations of the field’s development.
Contralateral facial artery myomucosal island flap for the reconstruction of T2-T3 oncologic oral defects
Authors: Huang Min , Li Peiyao , Yang Le , Xiao Yudong , Zeng Lingchan , Su Yuxiong , Liang Yujie , Zeng Gucheng , Liao Guiqing , Zhang Sien
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To avoid the oncologic risks of ipsilateral regional flaps, this study aimed to explore the feasibility and clinical outcomes of the contralateral-based facial artery myomucosal island flap (C-FAMMIF) for oral T2–T3 oncologic defects reconstruction.

Methods

A study of flap anatomy was conducted on 7 cadaver samples and a cohort of 24 patients who received C-FAMMIF reconstruction after malignancy resection were retrospectively researched. A balanced anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) group of 47 patients was extracted as control group using propensity score matching method. Progression-free survival (PFS), functional outcomes, and donor site complications were assessed.

Results

Consistent blood supply and drainage through facial artery and vein with median maximum pedicle length of 106 mm supported contralateral reconstruction. The superficial vein drainage pattern indicated safer flap harvest at contralateral neck under circumstances of ipsilateral neck dissections. The pedicle and marginal facial nerve formed three anatomical patterns. The surgical management of each was described. Patients with ipsilateral pN+ neck accounted for 41.7% and 40.4% in the C-FAMMIF and ALT group, respectively. The 2-year PFS rate between the C-FAMMIF and ALT groups was not significantly different (88.2% in C-FAMMIF group and 84.6% in ALT group, respectively, p = 0.6358). Promising recoveries were observed for swallowing function and tactile sensation. The donor sites healed upon primary closure without trismus or permanent facial palsy.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that C-FAMMIF is feasible and safe for T2-T3 oral oncologic defect reconstruction in patients with ipsilateral cN+ neck.
Spatial-temporal comparison of Eph/Ephrin gene expression in ocular lenses from aging and knockout mice
Authors: Huynh Peter N. , Cheng Catherine
Published: June 2024

Cataracts, defined as any opacity in the transparent ocular lens, remain the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in the world; however, the etiology of this pathology is not fully understood. Studies in mice and humans have found that the EphA2 receptor and the ephrin-A5 ligand play important roles in maintaining lens homeostasis and transparency. However, due to the diversity of the family of Eph receptors and ephrin ligands and their promiscuous binding, identifying functional interacting partners remains a challenge. Previously, 12 of the 14 Ephs and 8 of 8 ephrins in mice were characterized to be expressed in the mouse lens. To further narrow down possible genes of interest in life-long lens homeostasis, we collected and separated the lens epithelium from the fiber cell mass and isolated RNA from each compartment in samples from young adult and middle-aged mice that were either wild-type, EphA2–/– (knockout), or ephrin-A5–/–. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was implemented to compare transcript levels of 33 Eph and ephrin gene variants in each tissue compartment. Our results show that, of the Eph and ephrin variants screened, 5 of 33 showed age-related changes, and 2 of 33 showed genotype-related changes in lens epithelium. In the isolated fibers, more dynamic gene expression changes were observed, in which 12 of 33 variants showed age-related changes, and 6 of 33 showed genotype-related changes. These data allow for a more informed decision in determining mechanistic leads in Eph-ephrin-mediated signaling in the lens.
Low adherence to a new guideline for managing febrile infants ≤59 days
Authors: Elliver Matilda , Norrman Josefin , Orfanos Ioannis
Published: June 2024

Background

Management of young febrile infants is challenging. Therefore, several guidelines have been developed over the last decades. However, knowledge regarding the impact of introducing guidelines for febrile infants is limited. We assessed the impact of and adherence to a novel guideline for managing febrile infants aged ≤59 days.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in 2 pediatric emergency departments in Sweden between 2014 and 2021. We compared the management of infants aged ≤59 days with fever without a source (FWS) and the diagnosis of serious bacterial infections (SBIs) before and after implementing the new guideline.

Results

We included 1,326 infants aged ≤59 days with FWS. Among infants aged ≤21 days, urine cultures increased from 49% to 67% (p = 0.001), blood cultures from 43% to 63% (p < 0.001), lumbar punctures from 16% to 33% (p = 0.003), and antibiotics from 38% to 57% (p = 0.002). Only 39 of 142 (28%) infants aged ≤21 days received recommended management. The SBI prevalence was 16.7% (95% CI, 11.0–23.8) and 17.6% (95% CI, 11.7–24.9) before and after the implementation, respectively. Among infants aged ≤59 days, there were 3 infants (0.6%; 95% CI, 0.1–1.7) in the pre-implementation period and 3 infants (0.6%; 95% CI, 0.1–1.7) in the post-implementation period with delayed treated urinary tract infections.

Conclusions

Investigations and antibiotics increased significantly after implementation of the new guideline. However, doing more did not improve the diagnosis of SBIs. Thus, the low adherence to the new guideline may be considered justified. Future research should consider strategies to safely minimize interventions when managing infants with FWS.
Left atrial strain in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and length of stay in pediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Tydén Katarina Övermo , Mesas Burgos Carmen , Jonsson Baldvin , Nordenstam Felicia
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The role of cardiac left ventricle (LV) dysfunction in children with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) has gained increasing attention. The hernia allows abdominal mass to enter thorax and subsequently both dislocating and compressing the heart. The pressure on vessels and myocardium alters blood flow and may interfere with normal development of the LV. A dysfunctional LV is concerning and impacts the complex pathophysiology of CDH. Hence, assessing both the systolic and diastolic LV function in the newborn with CDH is important, and it may add value for medical treatment and prognostic factors as length of stay (LOS) in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). LV strain is considered an early marker of systolic dysfunction used in the pediatric population. Left atrial (LA) strain is an echocardiographic marker of LV diastolic dysfunction used in the adult population. When filling pressure of the LV increases, the strain of the atrial wall is decreased. We hypothesized that reduced LA strain and LV strain are correlated with the LOS in the PICU of newborns with CDH.

Methods

This retrospective observational cohort study included data of 55 children born with CDH between 2018 and 2020 and treated at Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden. Overall, 46 parents provided consent. Echocardiograms were performed in 35 children <72 h after birth. The LA reservoir strain (LASr), LV global longitudinal strain, LV dimensions, and direction of blood flow through the patent foramen ovale (PFO) were retrospectively assessed using the echocardiograms.

Results

Children with LASr <33% (n = 27) had longer stays in the PICU than children with LA strain ≥33% (n = 8) (mean: 20.8 vs. 8.6 days; p < 0.002). The LASr was correlated with the LOS in the PICU (correlation coefficient: −0.378; p = 0.025). The LV dimension was correlated with the LOS (correlation coefficient: −0.546; p = 0.01). However, LV strain was not correlated to LOS.

Conclusion

Newborns with CDH and a lower LASr (<33%) had longer stays in the PICU than children with LASr ≥33%. LASr is a feasible echocardiographic marker of diastolic LV dysfunction in newborns with CDH and may indicate the severity of the condition.
Enhancing surgical decision-making in NEC with ResNet18: a deep learning approach to predict the need for surgery through x-ray image analysis
Authors: Wu Zhiqing , Zhuo Ran , Liu Xiaobo , Wu Bin , Wang Jian
Published: June 2024

Background

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe neonatal intestinal disease, often occurring in preterm infants following the administration of hyperosmolar formula. It is one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality in the NICU, and currently, there are no clear standards for surgical intervention, which typically depends on the joint discretion of surgeons and neonatologists. In recent years, deep learning has been extensively applied in areas such as image segmentation, fracture and pneumonia classification, drug development, and pathological diagnosis.

Objective

Investigating deep learning applications using bedside x-rays to help optimizing surgical decision-making in neonatal NEC.

Methods

Through a retrospective analysis of anteroposterior bedside chest and abdominal x-rays from 263 infants diagnosed with NEC between January 2015 and April 2023, including a surgery group (94 cases) and a non-surgery group (169 cases), the infants were divided into a training set and a validation set in a 7:3 ratio. Models were built based on Resnet18, Densenet121, and SimpleViT to predict whether NEC patients required surgical intervention. Finally, the model's performance was tested using an additional 40 cases, including both surgical and non-surgical NEC cases, as a test group. To enhance the interpretability of the models, the study employed 2D-Grad-CAM technology to describe the models’ focus on significant areas within the x-ray images.

Results

Resnet18 demonstrated outstanding performance in binary diagnostic capability, achieving an accuracy of 0.919 with its precise lesion imaging and interpretability particularly highlighted. Its precision, specificity, sensitivity, and F1 score were significantly high, proving its advantages in optimizing surgical decision-making for neonatal NEC.

Conclusion

The Resnet18 deep learning model, constructed using bedside chest and abdominal imaging, effectively assists clinical physicians in determining whether infants with NEC require surgical intervention.
Advancing perspectives on the off-label use of anticancer drugs: an updated classification and exploration of categories
Authors: Chen Xiaoyi , Ou Shunlong , Luo Jing , He Zhisan , Jiang Qian
Published: June 2024

To date, the definition that the off-label usage of drugs refers to the unapproved use of approved drugs, which covers unapproved indications, patient populations, doses, and/or routes of administration, has been in existence for many years. Currently, there is a limited frequency and prevalence of research on the off-label use of antineoplastic drugs, mainly due to incomplete definition and classification issues. It is time to embrace new categories for the off-label usage of anticancer drugs. This review provided an insight into an updated overview of the concept and categories of the off-label use of anticancer drugs, along with illustrating specific examples to establish the next studies about the extent of the off-label usage of anticancer drugs in the oncology setting. The scope of the off-label use of current anticancer drugs beyond the previous definitions not only includes off-label uses in terms of indications, patient populations, doses, and/or routes of administration but also off-label use in terms of medication course, combination, sequence of medication, clinical purpose, contraindications scenarios, etc. In addition, the definition of the off-label usage of anticancer drugs should be added to the condition at a given time, and it varies from approval authorities. We presented a new and relatively comprehensive classification, providing extensive analysis and illustrative examples of the off-label usage of antineoplastic drugs for the first time. Such a classification has the potential to promote practical adoption and enhance management strategies for the off-label use of antitumor drugs.
Ferroptosis: a new mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine for treating ulcerative colitis
Authors: Wang Yingyi , Hao Yanwei , Yuan Lingling , Tian Huaie , Sun Xuhui , Zhang Yi
Published: June 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a subtype of inflammatory bowel disease, manifests with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and mucopurulent, bloody stools. The pathogenesis of UC is not fully understood. At present, the incidence of UC has increased significantly around the world. Conventional therapeutic arsenals are relatively limited, with often poor efficacy and many adverse effects. In contrast, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) holds promise due to their notable effectiveness, reduced recurrence rates, and minimal side effects. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the basic research on TCM for UC treatment. It has been found that the inhibition of ferroptosis through the intervention of TCM can significantly promote intestinal mucosal healing and reverse UC. The mechanism of action involves multiple targets and pathways.

Aim of the review

This review summarizes the experimental studies on the targeted regulation of ferroptosis by TCM and its impact on UC in recent years, aiming to provide theoretical basis for the prevention, treatment, and further drug development for UC.

Results

Ferroptosis disrupts antioxidant mechanisms in intestinal epithelial cells, damages the intestinal mucosa, and participates in the pathological process of UC. TCM acts on various pathways such as Nrf2/HO-1 and GSH/GPX4, blocking the pathological progression of ferroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells, inhibiting pathological damage to the intestinal mucosa, and thereby alleviating UC.

Conclusion

The diverse array of TCM single herbs, extracts and herbal formulas facilitates selective and innovative research and development of new TCM methods for targeting UC treatment. Although progress has been made in studying TCM compound formulas, single herbs, and extracts, there are still many issues in clinical and basic experimental designs, necessitating further in-depth scientific exploration and research.
The impact of Chinese volume-based procurement on pharmaceutical market concentration
Authors: Yang Ying , Liu Yuxin , Mao Zongfu , Mao Jing , Jin Yalei
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Optimizing the pharmaceutical industrial structure is the key mission of China’s healthcare reform. From the industrial structure perspective, this study empirically evaluated the impact of China’s national volume-based procurement (NVBP) policy on market concentration in the hospital-end drug market.

Methods

This study used drug procurement data of China’s public medical institutions which obtained from the national database. A quasi-natural experiment was designed involving eleven pairs of matched treatment-control region combinations, with NVBP policy as the intervention measure. The market was defined by drug name (molecular boundary) and city/province (geographical boundary). Market changes were measured from three dimensions: the number of enterprises and products, market share, and Herfindahl-Hirschman index (HHI). Dual comparison approach and difference-in-difference (DID) method with fixed effect model were applied to quantify policy impacts.

Results

The number of enterprises and products decreased by 18 and 83 in pilot regions after NVBP policy, far more than the decreases in control regions (6 and 21). The accumulative market share of 15 bid-winning enterprises increased by 53.67% in volume and 18.79% in value, among which the increment of enterprises with low baseline market share was more prominent (66.64% and 36.40%). Among three enterprise types, the market share of generic consistency evaluation (GCE) certificated generics significantly increased, GCE uncertificated generics significantly decreased, and originators slightly decreased. DID models indicated significantly positive impact of NVBP policy on market concentration, with HHI-volume and HHI-value increasing by 49.33% (β = 0.401, p < 0.01) and 21.05% (β = 0.191, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The implementation of NVBP promoted the intensive drug circulation and supply of Chinese public hospitals, intensifying the exit of GCE uncertificated generics from the hospital-end market. NVBP combined with GCE standards significantly improved market concentration, which brought a positive signal of pharmaceutical industrial structure optimization in China. In the future context of normalized and institutionalized NVBP, the balance should be further sought between low drug prices and reliable hospital drug supply, sustainable industry development.
Oligomeric amyloid-β targeted contrast agent for MRI evaluation of Alzheimer’s disease mouse models
Authors: Park Jang Woo , Tian Yunan , Kim Sang-Tae , Park Chanwoo , Kim Yu Mi , Chung Hye Kyung , Kim Kyeong Min , Jahng Geon-Ho
Published: June 2024

Background

Oligomeric amyloid beta (oAβ) is a toxic factor that acts in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and may initiate the pathologic cascade. Therefore, detecting oAβ has a crucial role in the early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of AD.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate MRI signal changes in different mouse models and the time-dependent signal changes using our novel gadolinium (Gd)-dodecane tetraacetic acid (DOTA)- ob5 aptamer contrast agent.

Methods

We developed an MRI contrast agent by conjugating Gd-DOTA-DNA aptamer called ob5 to evaluate its ability to detect oAβ deposits in the brain using MRI. A total of 10 control mice, 9 3xTg AD mice, and 11 APP/PS/Tau AD mice were included in this study, with the age of each model being 16 or 36 weeks. A T1-weighted image was acquired at the time points before (0 min) and after injection of the contrast agent at 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 min. The analyses were performed to compare MRI signal differences among the three groups and the time-dependent signal differences in different mouse models.

Results

Both 3xTg AD and APP/PS/Tau AD mouse models had higher signal enhancement than control mice at all scan-time points after injection of our contrast media, especially in bilateral hippocampal areas. In particular, all Tg AD mouse models aged 16 weeks showed a higher contrast enhancement than those aged 36 weeks. For 3xTg AD and APP/PS/Tau AD groups, the signal enhancement was significantly different among the five time points (0 min, 5 min, 10 min, 15 min, 20 min, and 25 min) in multiple ROI areas, typically in the bilateral hippocampus, left thalamus, and left amygdala.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that the expression of the contrast agent in different AD models demonstrates its translational flexibility across different species. The signal enhancement peaked around 15–20 min after injection of the contrast agent. Therefore, our novel contrast agent targeting oAβ has the potential ability to diagnose early AD and monitor the progression of AD.
Efficacy and safety of Shenmai injection for acute ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Sun Tianye , Zhang Mi , Yan Mingyuan , Wang Kaiyue , Li Lili , Liu Jinmin
Published: June 2024

Background

Ischemic stroke is a serious and sudden cerebrovascular condition that significantly affects individual’s health and imposes a substantial economic burden on medical management. Despite its widespread use in China, there is still a lack of reliable evidence regarding the efficacy of Shenmai injection (SMI) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We aimed to comprehensively assess the effectiveness and safety of SMI in treating AIS through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Randomized controlled studies (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of SMI in treating AIS were searched for in eight databases from the inception of each database till January 2024. We utilized the ROB 2.0 to assess the risk of bias. A meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4, while sensitivity analyses and publication bias assessments were conducted using Stata 16.1.

Results

A total of 17 studies involving 1,603 AIS patients were included in our meta-analysis. Our results showed that SMI plus conventional treatments (CTs) was more effective than CTs alone in improving the total effective rate (RR 1.22, 95% CI: 1.14 to 1.30, p < 0.00001), the Barthel index (BI) (MD 12.18, 95% CI: 10.30 to 14.06, p < 0.00001), and reducing the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale Score (NIHSS) score (MD -3.05, 95% CI: 3.85 to −2.24, p < 0.00001) and Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) (MD -0.68, 95% CI: 0.86 to-0.49, p < 0.00001). In addition, SMI combination therapy was better than CTs alone in decreasing the levels of IL-6, IL-18, and hs-CRP. SMI therapy also enhanced the cerebral hemorheology of patients by reducing levels of fibrinogen and plasma viscosity. However, there was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events, including elevated transaminase, rash, nausea, bleeding, urticaria, headache, vomiting, chest tightness, and facial flushes. Moreover, no serious adverse effects or life-threatening events were reported.

Conclusion

Our study shows that combining SMI with CTs effectively enhances the neurological function of patients with acute cerebral infarction. However, our findings should be interpreted considering the significant heterogeneity and suboptimal quality of the analyzed trials.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024504675, Identifier PROSPERO, CRD42024504675
Crebanine, an aporphine alkaloid, induces cancer cell apoptosis through PI3K-Akt pathway in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Yeh Poh-Shiow , Liu Chien-Te , Yu Chia-Ying , Chang Ya-Chuan , Lin Shu-Yu , Li Yun-Chen , Luan Yu-Ze , Sung Wen-Wei
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most prevalent and lethal primary central nervous system malignancies. GBM is notorious for its high rates of recurrence and therapy resistance and the PI3K/Akt pathway plays a pivotal role in its malignant behavior. Crebanine (CB), an alkaloid capable of penetrating the blood–brain barrier (BBB), has been shown to have inhibitory effects on proinflammatory molecules and multiple cancer cell lines via pathways such as PI3K/Akt. This study aims to investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of CB treatment on GBM. It is the first study to elucidate the anti-tumor role of CB in GBM, providing new possibilities for GBM therapy. Through a series of experiments, we demonstrate the significant anti-survival, anti-clonogenicity, and proapoptotic effects of CB treatment on GBM cell lines. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is also conducted and provides a complete list of significant changes in gene expression after treatment, including genes related to apoptosis, the cell cycle, FoxO, and autophagy. The subsequent protein expressions of the upregulation of apoptosis and downregulation of PI3K/Akt are further proved. The clinical applicability of CB to GBM treatment could be high for its BBB-penetrating feature, significant induction of apoptosis, and blockage of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Future research is needed using in vivo experiments and other therapeutic pathways shown in NGS for further clinical or in vivo studies.
Research on LiDAR point cloud data transformation method based on weighted altitude difference map
Authors: Wang Bosi , Long Zourong , Chen Xinhai , Feng Chenjun , Zhao Min , Sun Dihua , Wang Weiping , Wang Shihao
Published: June 2024

Road surface detection plays a pivotal role in the realm of autonomous vehicle navigation. Contemporary methodologies primarily leverage LiDAR for acquiring three-dimensional data and utilize imagery for chromatic information. However, these approaches encounter significant integration challenges, particularly due to the inherently unstructured nature of 3D point clouds. Addressing this, our novel algorithm, specifically tailored for predicting drivable areas, synergistically combines LiDAR point clouds with bidimensional imagery. Initially, it constructs an altitude discrepancy map via LiDAR, capitalizing on the height uniformity characteristic of planar road surfaces. Subsequently, we introduce an innovative and more efficacious attention mechanism, streamlined for image feature extraction. This mechanism employs adaptive weighting coefficients for the amalgamation of the altitude disparity imagery and two-dimensional image features, thereby facilitating road area delineation within a semantic segmentation framework. Empirical evaluations conducted using the KITTI dataset underscore our methodology’s superior road surface discernment and extraction precision, substantiating the efficacy of our proposed network architecture and data processing paradigms. This research endeavor seeks to propel the advancement of three-dimensional perception technology in the autonomous driving domain.
Baroreflex and chemoreflex interaction in high-altitude exposure: possible role on exercise performance
Authors: Alvarez-Araos Pablo , Jiménez Sergio , Salazar-Ardiles Camila , Núñez-Espinosa Cristian , Paez Valeria , Rodriguez-Fernandez Maria , Raberin Antoine , Millet Gregoire P. , Iturriaga Rodrigo , Andrade David C.
Published: June 2024

The hypoxic chemoreflex and the arterial baroreflex are implicated in the ventilatory response to exercise. It is well known that long-term exercise training increases parasympathetic and decreases sympathetic tone, both processes influenced by the arterial baroreflex and hypoxic chemoreflex function. Hypobaric hypoxia (i.e., high altitude [HA]) markedly reduces exercise capacity associated with autonomic reflexes. Indeed, a reduced exercise capacity has been found, paralleled by a baroreflex-related parasympathetic withdrawal and a pronounced chemoreflex potentiation. Additionally, it is well known that the baroreflex and chemoreflex interact, and during activation by hypoxia, the chemoreflex is predominant over the baroreflex. Thus, the baroreflex function impairment may likely facilitate the exercise deterioration through the reduction of parasympathetic tone following acute HA exposure, secondary to the chemoreflex activation. Therefore, the main goal of this review is to describe the main physiological mechanisms controlling baro- and chemoreflex function and their role in exercise capacity during HA exposure.
Thermal imaging can reveal variation in stay-green functionality of wheat canopies under temperate conditions
Authors: Anderegg Jonas , Kirchgessner Norbert , Aasen Helge , Zumsteg Olivia , Keller Beat , Zenkl Radek , Walter Achim , Hund Andreas
Published: June 2024

Canopy temperature (CT) is often interpreted as representing leaf activity traits such as photosynthetic rates, gas exchange rates, or stomatal conductance. This interpretation is based on the observation that leaf activity traits correlate with transpiration which affects leaf temperature. Accordingly, CT measurements may provide a basis for high throughput assessments of the productivity of wheat canopies during early grain filling, which would allow distinguishing functional from dysfunctional stay-green. However, whereas the usefulness of CT as a fast surrogate measure of sustained vigor under soil drying is well established, its potential to quantify leaf activity traits under high-yielding conditions is less clear. To better understand sensitivity limits of CT measurements under high yielding conditions, we generated within-genotype variability in stay-green functionality by means of differential short-term pre-anthesis canopy shading that modified the sink:source balance. We quantified the effects of these modifications on stay-green properties through a combination of gold standard physiological measurements of leaf activity and newly developed methods for organ-level senescence monitoring based on timeseries of high-resolution imagery and deep-learning-based semantic image segmentation. In parallel, we monitored CT by means of a pole-mounted thermal camera that delivered continuous, ultra-high temporal resolution CT data. Our results show that differences in stay-green functionality translate into measurable differences in CT in the absence of major confounding factors. Differences amounted to approximately 0.8°C and 1.5°C for a very high-yielding source-limited genotype, and a medium-yielding sink-limited genotype, respectively. The gradual nature of the effects of shading on CT during the stay-green phase underscore the importance of a high measurement frequency and a time-integrated analysis of CT, whilst modest effect sizes confirm the importance of restricting screenings to a limited range of morphological and phenological diversity.
Effects of elicitors from culture filtrate of Fusarium solani CL105 on flavonoid production of Scutellaria baicalensis calli
Authors: Cui Xiaoxuan , Zhang Xin , Sun Huigai , Zheng Yuguang , Su Chunyan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Endophytic fungi can promote secondary metabolite accumulation in medicinal plants. Previously, we observed that the culture filtrate of Fusarium solani CL105 promoted flavonoid production in Scutellaria baicalensis calli. However, the active ingredients and mechanisms associated with this secondary metabolite accumulation remain unclear.

Methods

This study evaluates the effects of different elicitors from the culture filtrate of F. solani CL105 namely, exopolysaccharide (EPS), exoprotein (EP), and other parts (OP), on the flavonoid production in S. baicalensis calli by HPLC. Subsequently, the underlying mechanism of EPS induced flavonoid production in S. baicalensis calli was revealed by transcriptomics and RT-PCR.

Results and discussion

The results indicated a significant increase in flavonoid production in S. baicalensis calli following treatment with EPS. Baicalin (1.40 fold), wogonoside (1.91 fold), and wogonin (2.76 fold) were most significantly up-regulated compared with the control. Transcriptome analysis further revealed up-regulation of key enzyme genes (CHS, CHI, FNS, and F6H) involved in flavonoid synthesis after 5 days of EPS treatment. Moreover, the expression of GA2ox and CYP707A—genes involved in gibberellin acid (GA) and abscisic acid biosynthesis (ABA), respectively—were significantly up-regulated. The expression levels of certain transcription factors, including MYB3, MYB8, and MYB13, were also significantly higher than in controls. Our results indicated that EPS was a main active elicitor involved in promoting flavonoid production in S. baicalensis calli. We postulated that EPS might stimulate the expression of MYB3, MYB8, MYB13, GA2ox, and CYP707A, leading to markedly upregulated CHS, CHI, FNS, and F6H expression levels, ultimately promoting flavonoid synthesis. This study provides a novel avenue for large-scale in vitro production of flavonoids in S. baicalensis.
Chloride salt enhances plant resistance to biotic stresses
Authors: Yang Yu-Bing , Yang Chang , Zheng Jia-Rui , Xu Liang-Zheng , Yao Nan
Published: June 2024

Biotic stresses caused by bacterial and fungal pathogens damage crops; identifying treatments that enhance disease resistance provides important information for understanding plant defenses and sustainable agriculture. Salt stress affects crop yields worldwide; however, studies have focused on the toxic sodium ion, leaving the effects of the chloride ion unclear. In this study, we found that irrigation with a combination of chloride salts (MgCl2, CaCl2, and KCl) suppressed the cell death phenotype of the ceramide kinase mutant acd5. Chloride salt pre-irrigation also significantly limited the cell death caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv maculicola infection and inhibited the multiplication of this bacterial pathogen in a mechanism partially dependent on the salicylic acid pathway. Moreover, chloride salt pre-irrigation improved plant defenses against the fungal pathogen challenge, confining the lesion area caused by Botrytis cinerea infection. Furthermore, the growth of herbivorous larvae of Spodoptera exigua was retarded by feeding on chloride salt irrigated plants. Thus, our data suggest that treatment with Cl- increases broad spectrum resistance to biotic challenges.
Comparative analysis of mycorrhizal communities associated with Struthiopteris spicant (L.) Weiss across Europe and North America
Authors: Guillen-Otero Thais , Hertel Dietrich , Quintanilla Luis G. , Lehnert Marcus , Schmid Mattia , Kharazishvili Davit , Fawcett Susan , Kessler Michael
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Ferns constitute the second largest group of vascular plants. Previous studies have shown that the diversity and composition of fern communities are influenced by resource availability and water stress, among other factors. However, little is known about the influence of these environmental factors on their biotic interactions, especially regarding the relationship between mycorrhizal fungi and ferns. The present study compares the mycorrhizal communities associated with 36 populations of Struthiopteris spicant L. Weiss across Europe and North America. This species exhibits a great tolerance to variations in light, nutrient, and pH conditions, and it can survive with and without mycorrhizae.

Methods

With the aim of determining which environmental factors impact the composition and abundance of the root-associated fungal communities in this species, we used an ITS-focused metabarcoding approach to identify the mycorrhizal fungi present and analyzed the influence of climatic and edaphic variables at global and regional scales

Results and discussion

We encountered striking differences in the relative abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) between S. spicant populations at both spatial levels. We recorded a total of 902 fungal ASVs, but only 2– 4% of the total fungal diversity was observed in each individual, revealing that each fern had a unique fungal community. Light availability and the interactive action of pH and soil nitrogen concentration showed a positive influence on AMF relative abundance, explaining 89% of the variance. However, environmental factors could only explain 4– 8% of the variability in AMF community composition, indicating that it might be determined by stochastic processes. These results support the hypothesis that ferns may be more independent of mycorrhization than other plant groups and interact with fungi in a more opportunistic manner.
First case of evolved herbicide resistance in the holoparasite sunflower broomrape, Orobanche cumana Wallr.
Authors: Kaundun Shiv Shankhar , Martin-Sanz Alberto , Rodríguez Maribel , Serbanoiu Tiberiu , Moreno Jose , Mcindoe Eddie , le Goupil Gael
Published: June 2024

The development and commercialisation of sunflower varieties tolerant to acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicides some 20 years ago provided farmers with an alternative method for the cost-effective control of Orobanche cumana. In 2020, however, two independent sunflower broomrape populations from Drama (GR-DRA) and Orestiada (GR-ORE), Greece, were reported to be heavily infested with O. cumana after application of the ALS-inhibiting herbicide imazamox. Here we have investigated the race of GR-DRA and GR-ORE and determined the basis of resistance to imazamox in the two Greek O. cumana samples. Using a set of five diagnostic sunflower varieties characterised by different resistant genes with respect to O. cumana infestation, we have clearly established that the GR-ORE and GR-DRA populations belong to the invasive broomrape races G and G+, respectively. Live underground tubercles and emerged shoots were identified at the recommended field rate of imazamox for GR-DRA and GR-ORE but not for two other standard sensitive populations in a whole plant dose response test using two different herbicide-tolerant sunflower hybrids as hosts. Sequencing of the ALS gene identified an alanine 205 to aspartate mutation in all GR-ORE samples. Most GR-DRA tubercles were characterised by a second serine 653 to asparagine ALS mutation whilst a few GR-DRA individuals contained the A205D mutation. Mutations at ALS codons 205 and 653 are known to impact on the binding and efficacy of imazamox and other imidazolinone herbicides. The knowledge generated here will be important for tracking and managing broomrape resistance to ALS-inhibiting herbicides in sunflower growing regions.