bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reaching Global Marine Biodiversity Conservation Goals With Area-Based Fisheries Management: A Typology-Based Evaluation
Authors: Himes-Cornell Amber , Lechuga Sánchez Juan Francisco , Potter Caroline , McKean Clayton , Rice Jake , Friedman Kim J. , Garcia Serge M. , Fluharty Dave L.
Published: July 2022

In 2010, the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) adopted the Aichi Biodiversity Target 11, calling for conserving 10% of the ocean through marine protected areas (MPAs) and “other effective area-based conservation measures” (OECMs), explicitly recognizing that other types of spatial conservation measures beyond areas designated as MPAs may also achieve biodiversity gains. Eight years later, CBD Parties adopted a definition and criteria for OECMs, and by early 2022, only a few OECMs had been reported. The OECM definition clearly requires that the measures be area-based and likely to contribute to conservation. However, conservation need not be their primary objective. Guidance on the extent and limits of what these “area measures” might include is needed. Clarity would assist countries in delivering on the CBD’s Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, with decadal goals incorporating an area-based conservation target, in which OECMs will play a crucial role. To achieve greater recognition of OECMs, countries require sector-specific guidance to guide recognition, listing, and ongoing implementation of OECMs. Here, we evaluate how well area-based fisheries management measures meet the OECM criteria as well as sustainable use principles, broader ecosystem management objectives, and more general biodiversity conservation goals. We systematically review case studies across a broad range of spatial management approaches to provide evidence of correspondence with the OECM criteria, arguing that many with primary objectives related to fisheries sustainability provide co-benefits for biodiversity, and hence biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. This review highlights how fisheries measures can help achieve a number of Sustainable Development Goals alongside the global targets for biodiversity of CBD.
A systematic review protocol for assessing equity in clinical practice guidelines for traumatic brain injury and homelessness
Authors: Chan Vincy , Estrella Maria Jennifer , Babineau Jessica , Colantonio Angela
Published: July 2022

Background

When used optimally, clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) can reduce inappropriate variations in practice, improve application of research to practice, and enhance the quality of healthcare. However, a common criticism, despite its potential, is the lack of consideration for equity and disadvantaged populations.

Objectives

This protocol is for a systematic review of CPGs for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and homelessness that aims to assess (1) the extent to which evidence regarding TBI and homelessness is integrated in CPGs for homelessness and TBI, respectively, and (2) equity considerations in CPGs for TBI and homelessness.

Methods and analysis

The methodology for this review is guided by the PRISMA-P, validated search filters for CPGs, and methodological guides to searching systematic reviews and gray literature. CPGs will be identified from (a) databases for peer-reviewed literature (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycInfo), (b) targeted websites and Google Search for gray literature, and (c) reference lists of peer-reviewed and gray literature that meet the eligibility criteria. Searching for gray literature, including from guideline-specific resources, is a critical component of this review and is considered an efficient approach to identifying CPGs, given the low precision of searching peer-reviewed databases. Two independent reviewers will screen all articles based on pre-determined eligibility criteria. A narrative synthesis will be conducted to identify the proportion of CPGs that integrate evidence about TBI and homelessness and how TBI and homelessness is or is not integrated in CPGs. Quality appraisal will take the form of an equity assessment of CPGs and will be completed independently by two reviewers.

Conclusion

This protocol outlines the methodology for a systematic review of CPGs for TBI and homelessness. The resulting systematic review from this protocol will form an evidence-based foundation to advance CPGs for individuals with lived experience of TBI and homelessness.

Systematic review registration

identifier: CRD42021287696.
Anomalous systemic arterial supply to the left lower lung lobe: A case report
Authors: Wu Zhuo , Xu Baoning , Zhou Di , Yang Xueying
Published: July 2022

Background

An anomalous systemic arterial supply to the lung lobes is a rare congenital pulmonary vascular malformation. Current treatments include thoracoscopic lobectomy, anatomical segmentectomy, simple ligation and arterial embolization. However, the optimal treatment remains controversial.

Case presentation

A 29-year-old man was diagnosed with anomalous systemic arterial supply to the left lower lobe through contrast-enhanced computed tomography and three-dimensional reconstruction. He underwent coil embolization of the anomalous artery and was followed up for 1 year.

Conclusions

Blockage of the blood flow of the anomalous systemic artery alone does not improve the blood supply of the pulmonary artery to lung tissue and thus cannot restore normal gas exchange through the blood-gas barrier. Coil embolization of the anomalous arterial supply can cause early postoperative pulmonary infarction.
Retinal and choroidal microvascular alterations in Behcet’s disease without ocular manifestations: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Shipei , Shi Xingyu , Chen Zhen , Li Xia , Yu Songping , Li Jun
Published: July 2022

Purpose

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the microvascular alterations in non-ocular Behcet’s disease (BD) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed in Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane databases for eligible studies from inception to February 2022. Detailed clinical demographics were extracted from each study by two independent reviewers. The weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to compare the OCTA parameters between non-ocular BD and healthy controls. Stata 12.0 was adopted to conduct statistical analyses.

Results

Ten cross-sectional studies involving 386 eyes in non-ocular BD and 418 eyes in healthy volunteers were ultimately included in the present analysis. When considering superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP), no significant differences of vessel densities in the whole enface image, fovea and perifovea were evaluated between two groups. Significantly reduced parafoveal vessel density of SCP was observed in non-ocular BD in comparison with healthy group (WMD = −1.33, 95%CI: −1.78, −0.89; I2 = 0.6%), while slightly decreased parafoveal vessel density was assessed in DCP (WMD = −1.47, 95%CI: −3.30, 0.35; I2 = 89.3%). Significantly increasing foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area was observed in non-ocular BD when compared to healthy controls (WMD = 0.11, 95%CI: 0.03, 0.19; I2 = 95.3%). There was no significant difference in flow area of choriocapillaris between non-ocular BD and control group (WMD = 0.06, 95%CI: −0.19, 0.32; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

Based on current analysis, our results demonstrated significantly lower parafoveal vessel density of SCP and lager FAZ area in full vasculature in non-ocular BD. The retinal microvascular alterations appear before the emergence of ocular manifestations.

Systematic Trial Registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/], identifier [CRD42021244856].
Severity and prognostic factors of SARS-CoV-2-induced pneumonia: The value of clinical and laboratory biomarkers and the A-DROP score
Authors: Szabó Miklós , Kardos Zsófia , Oláh Csaba , Tamáska Péter , Hodosi Katalin , Csánky Eszter , Szekanecz Zoltán
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Numerous clinical and laboratory scores that include C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), interleukin 6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine levels and oxygenation (PaO2 and SaO2) have been used for the prognosis of COVID-19. In addition, composite scores have been developed for the assessment of general state and risk in community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) that may be applied for COVID-19 as well. In this study, we assessed severity and potential prognostic risk factors for unfavorable outcome among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We also applied the A-DROP general scoring system used in CAP to COVID-19.

Patients and methods

Altogether 233 patients admitted to our center with COVID-19 were included in the study. Clinical status, several laboratory biomarkers described above, indicators of oxygenation were determined at hospital admission. We also applied the A-DROP composite scoring system that includes Age (≥ 70 years in males and ≥ 75 years in females), Dehydration (BUN ≥ 7.5 mmol/l), Respiratory failure (SaO2 ≤ 90% or PaO2 ≤ 60 mmHg), Orientation disturbance (confusion) and low blood Pressure (systolic BP ≤ 90 mmHg) to COVID-19.

Results

At the time of admission, most patients had elevated CRP, LDH, ferritin, D-dimer, and IL-6 levels indicating multisystemic inflammatory syndrome (MIS). Altogether 49 patients (21.2%) required admission to ICU, 46 (19.7%) needed ventilation and 40 patients (17.2%) died. In the binary analysis, admission to ICU, the need for ventilation and death were all significantly associated with the duration of hospitalization, history of hypertension or obesity, confusion/dizziness, as well as higher absolute leukocyte and neutrophil and lower lymphocyte counts, elevated CRP, PCT, LDH, ferritin, IL-6, BUN, and creatinine levels, low PaO2 and SaO2 and higher A-DROP score at the time of admission (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Numerous laboratory biomarkers in addition to obesity, dizziness at the time of admission and the history of hypertension may predict the need for ICU admission and ventilation, as well as mortality in COVID-19. Moreover, A-DROP may be a suitable scoring system for the assessment of general health and disease outcome in COVID-19.
Prophage Diversity Across Salmonella and Verotoxin-Producing Escherichia coli in Agricultural Niches of British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Fong Karen , Lu Yu Tong , Brenner Thomas , Falardeau Justin , Wang Siyun
Published: July 2022

Prophages have long been regarded as an important contributor to the evolution of Salmonella and Verotoxin-producing E. coli (VTEC), members of the Enterobacteriaceae that cause millions of cases of foodborne illness in North America. In S. Typhimurium, prophages provide many of the genes required for invasion; similarly, in VTEC, the Verotoxin-encoding genes are located in cryptic prophages. The ability of prophages to quickly acquire and lose genes have driven their rapid evolution, leading to highly diversified populations of phages that can infect distantly-related bacterial hosts. To defend against foreign genetic materials (i.e., phages), bacteria have evolved Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) immunity, consisting of variable spacer regions that match short nucleic acid sequences of invaders previously encountered. The number of spacer regions varies widely amongst Enterobacteriaceae, and there is currently no clear consensus if the accumulation of spacers is linked to genomic prophage abundance. Given the immense prophage diversity and contribution to bacterial host phenotypes, we analyzed the prophage sequences within 118 strains of Salmonella and VTEC, 117 of which are of agricultural origin. Overall, 130 unique prophage sequences were identified and they were found to be remarkably diverse with <50% nucleotide similarity, particularly with the Gifsy-1 group which was identified in several Salmonella serovars and interestingly, a strain of VTEC. Additionally, we identified a novel plasmid-like phage that carried antibiotic resistance and bacteriocin resistance genes. The strains analyzed carried at least six distinct spacers which did not possess homology to prophages identified in the same genome. In fact, only a fraction of all identified spacers (14%) possessed significant homology to known prophages. Regression models did not discern a correlation between spacer and prophage abundance in our strains, although the relatively high number of spacers in our strains (an average of 27 in Salmonella and 19 in VTEC) suggest that high rates of infection may occur in agricultural niches and be a contributing driver in bacterial evolution. Cumulatively, these results shed insight into prophage diversity of Salmonella and VTEC, which will have further implications when informing development of phage therapies against these foodborne pathogens.
A Correlation Between Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae Volatile Components and the Change of the Coexisting Microbial Population Structure Caused by Environmental Factors During Aging
Authors: Yang Fangqing , He Liying , Shen Mengyuan , Wang Fu , Chen Hongping , Liu Youping
Published: July 2022

Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae (PCR) is a natural citrus by-product with beneficial health and nutritive properties that is used widely in food and is an ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine. PCR improves gradually with aging. However, the present research has not yet revealed the reasons for this. Some data prove the important role of microorganisms in the quality of tobacco and fermented tea with the time of the aging of these foods. Our studies further proved that the coexisting Aspergillus niger plays an important role in the change of flavonoids and volatile oil in PCR during this process. Therefore, we put forward that longer storage is better for PCR and is highly correlated with the change of the coexisting microbial population structure caused by environmental factors. Samples of PCR aged in Beijing, Sichuan, Guangdong, and Yunnan were collected at different time points. Using GC/MS and high throughput 16S rDNA and ITS sequencing techniques, massive changes in volatile profile and microbial communities were observed during aging. Spearman correlation analysis indicated that Exobasidium, Xeromyces, Pseudocercospora, Russula, Aspergillus, Herbaspirillum, Sphingomonas, and Streptococcus, which are the dominant microbial genera in Sichuan and Guangdong showed strong connections with volatile components of chemical markers. It was preliminarily verified that the changes of volatile components for PCR are highly correlated with the change of the coexisting microbial population structure caused by environmental factors, providing a new idea for the research on the aging mechanism of PCR and key influencing factors of aging quality.
Graph Properties of Mass-Difference Networks for Profiling and Discrimination in Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Traquete Francisco , Luz João , Cordeiro Carlos , Sousa Silva Marta , Ferreira António E. N.
Published: July 2022

Untargeted metabolomics seeks to identify and quantify most metabolites in a biological system. In general, metabolomics results are represented by numerical matrices containing data that represent the intensities of the detected variables. These matrices are subsequently analyzed by methods that seek to extract significant biological information from the data. In mass spectrometry-based metabolomics, if mass is detected with sufficient accuracy, below 1 ppm, it is possible to derive mass-difference networks, which have spectral features as nodes and chemical changes as edges. These networks have previously been used as means to assist formula annotation and to rank the importance of chemical transformations. In this work, we propose a novel role for such networks in untargeted metabolomics data analysis: we demonstrate that their properties as graphs can also be used as signatures for metabolic profiling and class discrimination. For several benchmark examples, we computed six graph properties and we found that the degree profile was consistently the property that allowed for the best performance of several clustering and classification methods, reaching levels that are competitive with the performance using intensity data matrices and traditional pretreatment procedures. Furthermore, we propose two new metrics for the ranking of chemical transformations derived from network properties, which can be applied to sample comparison or clustering. These metrics illustrate how the graph properties of mass-difference networks can highlight the aspects of the information contained in data that are complementary to the information extracted from intensity-based data analysis.
Function and Clinical Significance of Circular RNAs in Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Yao Xuelin , Zhang Qiu
Published: July 2022

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the leading cause and mortality of endocrine malignancies worldwide. Tumourigenesis involves multiple molecules including circular RNAs (circRNAs). circRNAs with covalently closed single-stranded structures have been identified as a type of regulatory RNA because of their high stability, abundance, and tissue/developmental stage-specific expression. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that various circRNAs are aberrantly expressed in thyroid tissues, cells, exosomes, and body fluids in patients with TC. CircRNAs have been identified as either oncogenic or tumour suppressor roles in regulating tumourigenesis, tumour metabolism, metastasis, ferroptosis, and chemoradiation resistance in TC. Importantly, circRNAs exert pivotal effects on TC through various mechanisms, including acting as miRNA sponges or decoys, interacting with RNA-binding proteins, and translating functional peptides. Recent studies have suggested that many different circRNAs are associated with certain clinicopathological features, implying that the altered expression of circRNAs may be characteristic of TC. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of recent advances on the dysregulation, functions, molecular mechanisms and potential clinical applications of circRNAs in TC. This review also aimes to improve our understanding of the functions of circRNAs in the initiation and progression of cancer, and to discuss the future perspectives on strategies targeting circRNAs in TC.
Mitochondrial trafficking and redox/phosphorylation signaling supporting cell migration phenotypes
Authors: Shannon Nathaniel , Gravelle Randi , Cunniff Brian
Published: July 2022

Regulation of cell signaling cascades is critical in making sure the response is activated spatially and for a desired duration. Cell signaling cascades are spatially and temporally controlled through local protein phosphorylation events which are determined by the activation of specific kinases and/or inactivation of phosphatases to elicit a complete and thorough response. For example, A-kinase-anchoring proteins (AKAPs) contribute to the local regulated activity protein kinase A (PKA). The activity of kinases and phosphatases can also be regulated through redox-dependent cysteine modifications that mediate the activity of these proteins. A primary example of this is the activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the inactivation of the phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) phosphatase by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, the local redox environment must play a critical role in the timing and magnitude of these events. Mitochondria are a primary source of ROS and energy (ATP) that contributes to redox-dependent signaling and ATP-dependent phosphorylation events, respectively. The strategic positioning of mitochondria within cells contributes to intracellular gradients of ROS and ATP, which have been shown to correlate with changes to protein redox and phosphorylation status driving downstream cellular processes. In this review, we will discuss the relationship between subcellular mitochondrial positioning and intracellular ROS and ATP gradients that support dynamic oxidation and phosphorylation signaling and resulting cellular effects, specifically associated with cell migration signaling.
Large-Scale Conformational Changes of FhaC Provide Insights Into the Two-Partner Secretion Mechanism
Authors: Sicoli Giuseppe , Konijnenberg Albert , Guérin Jérémy , Hessmann Steve , Del Nero Elise , Hernandez-Alba Oscar , Lecher Sophie , Rouaut Guillaume , Müggenburg Linn , Vezin Hervé , Cianférani Sarah , Sobott Frank , Schneider Robert , Jacob-Dubuisson Françoise
Published: July 2022

The Two-Partner secretion pathway mediates protein transport across the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. TpsB transporters belong to the Omp85 superfamily, whose members catalyze protein insertion into, or translocation across membranes without external energy sources. They are composed of a transmembrane β barrel preceded by two periplasmic POTRA domains that bind the incoming protein substrate. Here we used an integrative approach combining in vivo assays, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and electron paramagnetic resonance techniques suitable to detect minor states in heterogeneous populations, to explore transient conformers of the TpsB transporter FhaC. This revealed substantial, spontaneous conformational changes on a slow time scale, with parts of the POTRA2 domain approaching the lipid bilayer and the protein’s surface loops. Specifically, our data indicate that an amphipathic POTRA2 β hairpin can insert into the β barrel. We propose that these motions enlarge the channel and initiate substrate secretion. Our data propose a solution to the conundrum how TpsB transporters mediate protein secretion without the need for cofactors, by utilizing intrinsic protein dynamics.
Emergency Room Evaluation and Recommendations and Risk Screening of Incident Major Neurocognitive Disorders in Older Females: Results of an Observational Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Beauchet Olivier , Matskiv Jacqueline , Launay Cyrille P. , Rolland Yves , Schott Anne-Marie , Allali Gilles
Published: July 2022

Background

“Emergency Room Evaluation and Recommendations” (ER2) risk levels (i.e., low, moderate and high) may be used to screen for major neurocognitive disorders (MNCD) in older emergency department users, as a high ER2 risk level is associated with MNCD diagnosis. This study aims to examine the association of ER2 risk levels with incident MNCD in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

A total of 709 participants of the EPIDémiologie de l’OStéoporose (EPIDOS) study—an observational population-based cohort study—were recruited in Toulouse (France). ER2 low, moderate and high risk levels were determined at baseline. Incident MNCD and their type (i.e., Alzheimer’s disease (AD) vs. non-AD) were diagnosed after a 7-year follow-up period.

Results

The overall incidence of MNCD was 29.1%. A low ER2 risk level was associated with low incidence of MNCD [Hazard ratio (HR) = 0.71 with P = 0.018] and AD (HR = 0.56 with P = 0.003), whereas a high risk level, both individually and when combined with a moderate risk level, was associated with high incidence of MNCD (HR ≥ 1.40 with P ≤0.018) and AD (HR ≥ 1.80 with P ≤ 0.003). No association was found with incident non-AD.

Conclusion

ER2 risk levels were positively associated with incident MNCD in EPIDOS participants, suggesting that ER2 may be used for risk screening of MNCD in the older population.
Diagnostic value of striatal 18F-FP-DTBZ PET in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Liu Xiu-Lin , Liu Shu-Ying , Barret Olivier , Tamagnan Gilles D. , Qiao Hong-Wen , Song Tian-Bin , Lu Jie , Chan Piu
Published: July 2022

Background

18F-FP-DTBZ has been proven as a biomarker for quantifying the concentration of presynaptic vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2). However, its clinical application is still limited.

Objectives

To evaluate the difference in dopaminergic integrity between patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and healthy controls (HC) using 18F-FP-DTBZ PET in vivo and to determine the diagnostic value of standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs) using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve.

Methods

A total of 34 PD and 31 HC participants were enrolled in the PET/MR derivation cohort, while 89 PD and 18 HC participants were recruited in the PET/CT validation cohort. The Hoehn–Yahr Scale and the third part of the MDS-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDSUPDRS-III) were used to evaluate the disease staging and severity. All assessments and PET scanning were performed in drug-off states. The striatum was segmented into five subregions as follows: caudate, anterior dorsal putamen (ADP), anterior ventral putamen (AVP), posterior dorsal putamen (PDP), and posterior ventral putamen (PVP) using automatic pipeline built with the PMOD software (version 4.105). The SUVRs of the targeted subregions were calculated using the bilateral occipital cortex as the reference region.

Results

Regarding the diagnostic value, ROC curve and blind validation showed that the contralateral PDP (SUVR = 3.43) had the best diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.973; P < 0.05), with a sensitivity of 97.1% (95% CI: 82.9–99.8%), specificity of 100% (95% CI: 86.3–100%), positive predictive value (PPV) of 100% (95% CI: 87.0–100%), negative predictive value (NPV) of 96.9% (95% CI: 82.0–99.8%), and an accuracy of 98.5% for the diagnosis of PD in the derivation cohort. Blind validation of 18F-FP-DTBZ PET imaging diagnosis was done using the PET/CT cohort, where participants with a SUVR of the PDP <3.43 were defined as PD. Kappa test showed a consistency of 0.933 (P < 0.05) between clinical diagnosis and imaging diagnosis, with a sensitivity of 98.9% (95% CI: 93.0–99.9%), specificity of 94.4% (95% CI: 70.6–99.7%), PPV of 98.9% (95% CI: 93.0–99.9%), NPV of 94.4% (95% CI: 70.6–99.7%), and a diagnostic accuracy of 98.1%.

Conclusions

Our results showed that an SUVR threshold of 3.43 in the PDP could effectively distinguish patients with PD from HC.
Non-Fragile Observer-Based Adaptive Integral Sliding Mode Control for a Class of T-S Fuzzy Descriptor Systems With Unmeasurable Premise Variables
Authors: Huang Xiaorong , Ralescu Anca L. , Peng Yiqiang , Gao Hongli , Sun Shulei
Published: July 2022

The issue of non-fragile observer-based adaptive integral sliding mode control for a class of Takagi–Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy descriptor systems with uncertainties and unmeasurable premise variables is investigated. General nonlinear systems are represented by nonlinear T-S fuzzy descriptor models, because premise variables depend on unmeasurable system states and fuzzy models have different derivative matrices. By introducing the system state derivative as an auxiliary state vector, original fuzzy descriptor systems are transformed into augmented systems for which system properties remain the same. First, a novel integral sliding surface, which includes estimated states of the sliding mode observer and controller gain matrices, is designed to obtain estimation error dynamics and sliding mode dynamics. Then, some sufficient linear matrix inequality (LMI) conditions for designing the observer and the controller gains are derived using the appropriate fuzzy Lyapunov functions and Lyapunov theory. This approach yields asymptotically stable sliding mode dynamics. Corresponding auxiliary variables are introduced, and the Finsler's lemma is employed to eliminate coupling of controller gain matrices, observer gain matrices, Lyapunov function matrices, and/or observer gain perturbations. An observer-based integral sliding mode control strategy is obtained to assure that reachability conditions are satisfied. Moreover, a non-fragile observer and a non-fragile adaptive controller are developed to compensate for system uncertainties and perturbations in both the observer and the controller. Finally, example results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness and merits of the proposed method.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of ischemic stroke patients during Ramadan vs. non-Ramadan months: Is there a difference?
Authors: Alotaibi Naser , Aldriweesh Mohammed A. , Alhasson Muath A. , Albdah Bayan A. , Aldbas Abdulaziz A. , Alluhidan Waleed A. , Alsaif Sultan A. , Almutairi Faisal M. , Alskaini Mohammed A. , Al Khathaami Ali M.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To study the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients experiencing an ischemic stroke during Ramadan vs. non-Ramadan months in a tertiary academic center in an Islamic country.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with ischemic stroke (IS) in Ramadan and non-Ramadan months for four consecutive years (February 2016–June 2019). All demographics, vascular risk factors, laboratory results, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at admission and discharge, National Institute Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and in-hospital complication data were collected for all patients.

Results

One thousand and 58 patients were included (non-Ramadan, n = 960; during Ramadan, n = 98). The mean age during Ramadan was 59 ± 13 years. Most non-Ramadan IS patients during Ramadan were male (68.5%; 57.1%, respectively). There was no statistical difference in vascular risk factors and medical history between the two groups. However, Ramadan patients had higher median NIHSS scores at discharge (p = 0.0045). In addition, more ICU admissions were noted among Ramadan patients (p = 0.009). In the gender-specific analysis for Ramadan patients, we found a statistically significant difference in smoking and urinary tract infection (p = 0.006, p = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusion

Based on our results, there was no difference, in general, between patients with IS during Ramadan and non-Ramadan months. However, IS patients had higher NIHSS scores at discharge and more ICU admissions during Ramadan. Last, we suggest future studies with larger sample sizes, longer duration, and including all types of strokes.
Infra-low frequency neurofeedback in persistent postural-perceptual dizziness—Case report
Authors: Sasu Roxana
Published: July 2022

Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness, also known as PPPD or 3PD, is a chronic functional vestibular disorder characterized by persistent sensation of rocking or swaying unsteadiness and/ or non-spinning dizziness without vertigo lasting at least 3 months. Symptoms typically worsen with upright posture (like standing or sitting upright), head or body motion and exposure to busy or visually rich environments. The article describes the application of Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback (ILF NF) over 32 sessions on an unmedicated individual with symptoms related to PPPD that were still present 3 years after the initial diagnosis. Along with significant reduction in those symptoms, other accompanying symptoms (like anxiety, intrusive violent thoughts, suicidal thoughts) were markedly improved with ILF NFB. Consistent symptom tracking from session to session, as well as before and after CPT data were used to document reported changes with ILF NF.
Gut microbiome: A potential indicator for predicting treatment outcomes in major depressive disorder
Authors: Dong Zaiquan , Shen Xiaoling , Hao Yanni , Li Jin , Xu Haizhen , Yin Li , Kuang Weihong
Published: July 2022

The therapeutic outcomes in major depressive disorder (MDD), one of the most common and heterogeneous mental illnesses, are affected by factors that remain unclear and often yield unsatisfactory results. Herein, we characterized the composition and metabolic function of the gut microbiota of patients with MDD during antidepressant treatment, based on 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics. The microbial signatures at baseline differed significantly between responder and non-responder groups. The gut microbiota of the non-responder group was mainly characterized by increased relative abundances of the phylum Actinobacteria, families Christensenellaceae and Eggerthellaceae, and genera Adlercreutzia and Christensenellaceae R7 group compared to that of the responder group. Additionally, the gut microbiota composition of the responder and non-responder groups differed significantly before and after treatment, especially at the genus level. Moreover, 20 differential metabolites between the responder and non-responder groups were identified that were mainly involved in lipid metabolism (cholestane steroids and steroid esters). Eggerthellaceae and Adlercreutzia displayed strong co-occurrence relationships with certain metabolites, suggesting alternations in the gut microbiome, and associated metabolites may be potential mediators of successful antidepressant treatment. Overall, our study demonstrates that alterations in gut microbiota composition and metabolic function might be relevant to the response to antidepressants, thereby providing insight into mechanisms responsible for their efficacy.
A decrease in physiological arousal accompanied by stable behavioral performance reflects task habituation
Authors: Micula Andreea , Rönnberg Jerker , Zhang Yue , Ng Elaine Hoi Ning
Published: July 2022

Despite the evidence of a positive relationship between task demands and listening effort, the Framework for Understanding Effortful Listening (FUEL) highlights the important role of arousal on an individual’s choice to engage in challenging listening tasks. Previous studies have interpreted physiological responses in conjunction with behavioral responses as markers of task engagement. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of potential changes in physiological arousal, indexed by the pupil baseline, on task engagement over the course of an auditory recall test. Furthermore, the aim was to investigate whether working memory (WM) capacity and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at which the test was conducted had an effect on changes in arousal. Twenty-one adult hearing aid users with mild to moderately severe symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss were included. The pupil baseline was measured during the Sentence-final Word Identification and Recall (SWIR) test, which was administered in a background noise composed of sixteen talkers. The Reading Span (RS) test was used as a measure of WM capacity. The findings showed that the pupil baseline decreased over the course of the SWIR test. However, recall performance remained stable, indicating that the participants maintained the necessary engagement level required to perform the task. These findings were interpreted as a decline in arousal as a result of task habituation. There was no effect of WM capacity or individual SNR level on the change in pupil baseline over time. A significant interaction was found between WM capacity and SNR level on the overall mean pupil baseline. Individuals with higher WM capacity exhibited an overall larger mean pupil baseline at low SNR levels compared to individuals with poorer WM capacity. This may be related to the ability of individuals with higher WM capacity to perform better than individual with poorer WM capacity in challenging listening conditions.
Differences in neuroanatomy and functional connectivity between motor subtypes of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Zheng Jin Hua , Sun Wen Hua , Ma Jian Jun , Wang Zhi Dong , Chang Qing Qing , Dong Lin Rui , Shi Xiao Xue , Li Ming Jian , Gu Qi , Chen Si Yuan , Li Dong Sheng
Published: July 2022

Background

The “postural instability/gait difficulty” (PIGD) and “tremor-dominant” (TD) motor subtypes of Parkinson’s disease (PD) differ in their clinical manifestations. The neurological basis of these differences is unclear.

Methods

We performed voxel-based morphometric analysis and measured amplitudes of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) on 87 PIGD patients and 51 TD patients. We complemented this neuroanatomical comparison with seed-to-voxel analysis to explore differences in functional connectivity.

Results

The PIGD group showed significantly smaller gray matter volume in the medial frontal gyrus (mainly on the right side) than the TD group. Across all patients, gray matter volume in the medial frontal gyrus correlated negatively with severity of PIGD symptoms after controlling for age (r = −0.250, p = 0.003), but this correlation was not observed in separate analyses of only PIGD or TD patients. The PIGD group showed greater functional connectivity of the right superior frontal gyrus with the left lingual gyrus, right lateral occipital cortex, and right lingual gyrus. ALFF did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusion

Postural instability/gait difficulty may be associated with smaller gray matter volume in medial frontal gyrus than TD, as well as with greater functional connectivity between the right superior frontal gyrus and occipital cortex. These results may help explain the clinical differences between the two motor subtypes of PD.
Is Characteristic Frequency Limiting Real-Time Electrocochleography During Cochlear Implantation?
Authors: Walia Amit , Shew Matthew A. , Lefler Shannon M. , Kallogjeri Dorina , Wick Cameron C. , Holden Timothy A. , Durakovic Nedim , Ortmann Amanda J. , Herzog Jacques A. , Buchman Craig A.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Electrocochleography (ECochG) recordings during cochlear implantation have shown promise in estimating the impact on residual hearing. The purpose of the study was (1) to determine whether a 250-Hz stimulus is superior to 500-Hz in detecting residual hearing decrement and if so; (2) to evaluate whether crossing the 500-Hz tonotopic, characteristic frequency (CF) place partly explains the problems experienced using 500-Hz.

Design

Multifrequency ECochG comprising an alternating, interleaved acoustic complex of 250- and 500-Hz stimuli was used to elicit cochlear microphonics (CMs) during insertion. The largest ECochG drops (≥30% reduction in CM) were identified. After insertion, ECochG responses were measured using the individual electrodes along the array for both 250- and 500-Hz stimuli. Univariate regression was used to predict whether 250- or 500-Hz CM drops explained low-frequency pure tone average (LFPTA; 125-, 250-, and 500-Hz) shift at 1-month post-activation. Postoperative CT scans were performed to evaluate cochlear size and angular insertion depth.

Results

For perimodiolar insertions (N = 34), there was a stronger linear correlation between the largest ECochG drop using 250-Hz stimulus and LFPTA shift (r = 0.58), compared to 500-Hz (r = 0.31). The 250- and 500-Hz CM insertion tracings showed an amplitude peak at two different locations, with the 500-Hz peak occurring earlier in most cases than the 250-Hz peak, consistent with tonotopicity. When using the entire array for recordings after insertion, a maximum 500-Hz response was observed 2–6 electrodes basal to the most-apical electrode in 20 cases (58.9%). For insertions where the apical insertion angle is >350 degrees and the cochlear diameter is <9.5 mm, the maximum 500-Hz ECochG response may occur at the non-apical most electrode. For lateral wall insertions (N = 14), the maximum 250- and 500-Hz CM response occurred at the most-apical electrode in all but one case.

Conclusion

Using 250-Hz stimulus for ECochG feedback during implantation is more predictive of hearing preservation than 500-Hz. This is due to the electrode passing the 500-Hz CF during insertion which may be misidentified as intracochlear trauma; this is particularly important in subjects with smaller cochlear diameters and deeper insertions. Multifrequency ECochG can be used to differentiate between trauma and advancement of the apical electrode beyond the CF.
Oxytocin and serotonin in the modulation of neural function: Neurobiological underpinnings of autism-related behavior
Authors: Zhao Feng , Zhang Hao , Wang Peng , Cui Wenjie , Xu Kaiyong , Chen Dan , Hu Minghui , Li Zifa , Geng Xiwen , Wei Sheng
Published: July 2022

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a group of generalized neurodevelopmental disorders. Its main clinical features are social communication disorder and repetitive stereotyped behavioral interest. The abnormal structure and function of brain network is the basis of social dysfunction and stereotyped performance in patients with autism spectrum disorder. The number of patients diagnosed with ASD has increased year by year, but there is a lack of effective intervention and treatment. Oxytocin has been revealed to effectively improve social cognitive function and significantly improve the social information processing ability, empathy ability and social communication ability of ASD patients. The change of serotonin level also been reported affecting the development of brain and causes ASD-like behavioral abnormalities, such as anxiety, depression like behavior, stereotyped behavior. Present review will focus on the research progress of serotonin and oxytocin in the pathogenesis, brain circuit changes and treatment of autism. Revealing the regulatory effect and neural mechanism of serotonin and oxytocin on patients with ASD is not only conducive to a deeper comprehension of the pathogenesis of ASD, but also has vital clinical significance.
Microglia Pyroptosis: A Candidate Target for Neurological Diseases Treatment
Authors: Wu Xian , Wan Teng , Gao Xiaoyu , Fu Mingyuan , Duan Yunfeng , Shen Xiangru , Guo Weiming
Published: July 2022

In addition to its profound implications in the fight against cancer, pyroptosis have important role in the regulation of neuronal injury. Microglia are not only central members of the immune regulation of the central nervous system (CNS), but are also involved in the development and homeostatic maintenance of the nervous system. Under various pathological overstimulation, microglia pyroptosis contributes to the massive release of intracellular inflammatory mediators leading to neuroinflammation and ultimately to neuronal damages. In addition, microglia pyroptosis lead to further neurological damage by decreasing the ability to cleanse harmful substances. The pathogenic roles of microglia in a variety of CNS diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, multiple sclerosis and depression, and many other neurological disorders have been gradually unveiled. In the context of different neurological disorders, inhibition of microglia pyroptosis by targeting NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing (NLRP) 3, caspase-1 and gasdermins (GSDMs) by various chemical agents as well as natural products significantly improve the symptoms or outcome in animal models. This study will provide new ideas for immunomodulatory treatment of CNS diseases.
Visual self-motion information contributes to passable width perception during a bike riding situation
Authors: Kuroda Naoki , Ikeda Kazuhiro , Teramoto Wataru
Published: July 2022

Previous studies have shown that space perception around the body is altered by self-motion, and that several self-motion cues from different modalities, including vision, proprioception, the vestibular system, and the motor system (motor commands) contribute to it. However, studies on how online self-motion information affects the perception of a passable width of a narrow aperture is largely overlooked by existing literature. Therefore, this study investigated this issue during virtual bike riding. Participants observed a narrow doorway aperture with varied widths in a virtual environment through a head-mounted display while riding a stationary bike. Visual self-motion information was presented by optical flow, while motor commands and proprioceptive feedback (non-visual information) was provided by having participants pedal the bike. The participants were then required to judge whether the presented aperture was passable. Experiment 1, where both visual and non-visual cues were provided, confirmed that the perceived passable width significantly increased with increasing self-motion speed, as previously shown during walking. Experiment 2, where self-motion cues were manipulated, showed that expansion of the perceived passable width was mainly induced by visual self-motion information. These results suggest that online self-motion information can affect passable width perception during bike riding and that visual self-motion information plays a significant role in this perception.
When the Counterpart Chooses the Opposite: The First Mover’s Anticipation and Evaluation of the Final Feedback in Gambles
Authors: Zheng Jiehui , Wang Lei , Meng Liang
Published: July 2022

This research examines the effect of response (in)consistency on the first mover’s anticipation and evaluation of the performance feedback in gambles. In a two-player gambling task, the participant played as the first mover while the confederate served as the second mover, who made their gambles in sequence. A more pronounced feedback-related negativity (FRN) was observed when the first mover noticed that the second mover chose a different option from him/her. An enlarged stimulus-preceding negativity (SPN) was observed when the first mover was anticipating the final feedback in this condition. Interestingly, consistent responses gave rise to a more pronounced FRN difference wave (d-FRN) during the feedback stage. Taken together, these results suggest that response discrepancy would modulate the first mover’s anticipation and evaluation of the final feedback in gambles.
Reconfiguration of static and dynamic thalamo-cortical network functional connectivity of epileptic children with generalized tonic-clonic seizures
Authors: Li Yongxin , Wang Jianping , Wang Xiao , Chen Qian , Qin Bing , Chen Jiaxu
Published: July 2022

Objective

A number of studies in adults and children with generalized tonic-clonic seizure (GTCS) have reported the alterations in morphometry, functional activity, and functional connectivity (FC) in the thalamus. However, the neural mechanisms underlying the alterations in the thalamus of patients with GTCS are not well understood, particularly in children. The aim of the current study was to explore the temporal properties of functional pathways connecting thalamus in children with GTCS.

Methods

Here, we recruited 24 children with GTCS and 36 age-matched healthy controls. Static and dynamic FC approaches were used to evaluate alterations in the temporal variability of thalamo-cortical networks in children with GTCS. The dynamic effective connectivity (dEC) method was also used to evaluate the directions of the fluctuations in effective connectivity. In addition, the relationships between the dynamic properties and clinical features were assessed.

Results

The static FC analysis presented significantly decreased connectivity patterns between the bilateral thalamus and between the thalamus and right inferior temporal gyrus. The dynamic connectivity analysis found decreased FC variability in the thalamo-cortical network of children with epilepsy. Dynamic EC analyses identified increased connectivity variability from the frontal gyrus to the bilateral thalamus, and decreased connectivity variability from the right thalamus to the left thalamus and from the right thalamus to the right superior parietal lobe. In addition, correlation analysis revealed that both static FC and connectivity temporal variability in the thalamo-cortical network related to the clinical features (epilepsy duration and epilepsy onset time).

Significance

Our findings of both increased and decreased connectivity variability in the thalamo-cortical network imply a dynamic restructuring of the functional pathways connecting the thalamus in children with GTCS. These alterations in static and temporal dynamic pathways connecting the bilateral thalamus may extend our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying the GTCS in children.