bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizations of microRNAs involved in the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) fruit juice on hyperuricemia in mice
Authors: Liu Yue , Liu Xianjun , Wang Mengyuan , Chen Changwu , Li Xiaohong , Liang Zhiyong , Shan Yaming , Yin Yuhe , Sun Fengjie , Li Zhandong , Li Hao
Published: June 2023

Background

Hyperuricemia is generally defined as the high level of serum uric acid and is well known as an important risk factor for the development of various medical disorders. However, the medicinal treatment of hyperuricemia is frequently associated with multiple side-effects.

Methods

The therapeutic effect of noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) fruit juice on hyperuricemia and the underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated in mouse model of hyperuricemia induced by potassium oxonate using biochemical and high-throughput RNA sequencing analyses.

Results

The levels of serum uric acid (UA) and xanthine oxidase (XOD) in mice treated with noni fruit juice were significantly decreased, suggesting that the noni fruit juice could alleviate hyperuricemia by inhibiting the XOD activity and reducing the level of serum UA. The contents of both serum creatinine and blood urine nitrogen of the noni fruit juice group were significantly lower than those of the model group, suggesting that noni fruit juice promoted the excretion of UA without causing deleterious effect on the renal functions in mice. The differentially expressed microRNAs involved in the pathogenesis of hyperuricemia in mice were identified by RNA sequencing with their target genes further annotated based on both Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases to explore the metabolic pathways and molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect on hyperuricemia by noni fruit juice.

Conclusion

Our study provided strong experimental evidence to support the further investigations of the potential application of noni fruit juice in the treatment of hyperuricemia.
The causal relationship between metabolic factors, drinking, smoking and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Qin Shan-shan , Pan Guo-qiang , Meng Qun-bo , Liu Jin-bo , Tian Zi-yu , Luan Shou-jing
Published: June 2023

Background

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is the second most common primary liver cancer. While multiple risk factors for iCCA have been established, metabolic diseases (obesity, diabetes, NAFLD, dyslipidemia, and hypertension) and other risk factors, including smoking and drinking, are still controversial due to their potential confounders. Here, Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to identify the causal relationship between them.

Method

In this study, we obtained GWAS data related to exposures from corresponding large genome-wide association studies. Summary-level statistical data for iCCA were obtained from the UK Biobank (UKB). We performed a univariable MR analysis to identify whether genetic evidence of exposure was significantly associated with iCCA risk. A multivariable MR analysis was conducted to estimate the independent effects of exposures on iCCA.

Results

Univariable and multivariable MR analysis based on the large GWAS data indicated that there is little evidence to support the genetic role of metabolic factors, smoking, drinking, and NAFLD in iCCA development (P >0.05). In contrast to most current studies, their impact on iCCA development, if any, might be smaller than we thought. The previous positive results might be due to the comorbidities between diseases and potentially unavoidable confounding factors.

Conclusion

In this MR study, we found no strong evidence to support causal associations between metabolic factors, NAFLD, smoking, drinking, and iCCA risk.
Case report: A rare Salter–Harris V metaphyseal fatigue fracture of the knee in an adolescent patient with obesity
Authors: Gao Chao , Feng Ling Le , Zheng Jiang Hua , Cao Jin , Sun Hua Jing
Published: June 2023

Stress fractures are rare, occurring in 1.5/100,000 high school athletes. High impact, repetitive loading participation in woman's sports, and being a white athlete have been identified as risk factors for stress fractures. Mostly treated conservatively, they are more common in the tibia (33%). Stress fractures requiring surgery, which are extremely rare, have been reported in the scaphoid, fifth metatarsal, and neck of femur. Herein, a 16-year-old adolescent patient with obesity presented with atypical knee pain after prolonged exercise. Advanced imaging revealed a stress fracture of the left tibia with a Salter–Harris type V fracture and varus deformity of the knee. We initially managed the fatigue fracture conservatively, followed by surgical correction of the varus deformity in the knee joint. The patient made a satisfactory recovery with equal limb length and no evidence of claudication. This is the first case of a proximal tibial metaphyseal stress fracture requiring surgery. The clinical manifestations of proximal tibial metaphyseal stress fractures and potential treatment strategies and the use of magnetic resonance for tibial stress fractures have been discussed. Understanding the location of unusual stress fractures can improve early diagnostic efficiency and reduce complication rates, healthcare costs, and recovery time.
Unraveling age-related impairment of the neuromuscular system: exploring biomechanical and neurophysiological perspectives
Authors: Nùñez-Lisboa M. , Valero-Breton M. , Dewolf A. H.
Published: June 2023

With extended life expectancy, the quality of life of elders is a priority. Loss of mobility, increased morbidity and risks of falls have dramatic individual and societal impacts. Here we consider the age-related modifications of gait, from a biomechanical and neurophysiological perspective. Among the many factors of frailty involved (e.g., metabolic, hormonal, immunological), loss of muscle strength and neurodegenerative changes inducing slower muscle contraction may play a key role. We highlight that the impact of the multifactorial age-related changes in the neuromuscular systems results in common features of gait in the immature gait of infants and older adults. Besides, we also consider the reversibility of age-related neuromuscular deterioration by, on the one hand, exercise training, and the other hand, novel techniques such as direct spinal stimulation (tsDCS).
The long-term trend of uterine fibroid burden in China from 1990 to 2019: A Joinpoint and Age–Period–Cohort study
Authors: Liu Xingyu , Wang Bo , Zhang Qianyu , Zhang Jinjin , Wang Shixuan
Published: June 2023

Purpose: Uterine fibroids occur in 40%–60% of women and are symptomatic in 30% of the patients by causing abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pressure, pain, and infertility. The study aims to evaluate the long-term trend of uterine fibroids mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in China and the relative risks of age, period, and birth cohort effects.

Methods: The mortality and DALYs of uterine fibroids from 1990 to 2019 were derived from the Global Burden of Disease 2019. The annual percentage change and average annual percent change (AAPC) were assessed using the Joinpoint regression. The effects of age, period, and birth cohort on death and DALYs were analyzed by the Age–Period–Cohort framework.

Results: The age-standardized rates were all on the ascending trend, with the greatest increase in the age-standardized mortality rate (AAPC, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.04–2.02). The net drift was found to be 3.51% (95% CI, 2.25%–4.78%) per year for mortality and 0.34% (95% CI, 0.14%–0.53%) per year for DALYs. Significant age, period, and birth cohort effects were found for mortality and DALYs (p < 0.001 for all). The mortality risk increased overall with age, but the DALYs risk increased first and then decreased with age. The period and birth cohort risks for mortality and DALYs showed different trends.

Conclusion: These secular time trends and changes of mortality and DALYs reveal the socioeconomic alterations, reform of diagnosis and therapy, and changes in social lifestyles and behaviors. Uterine fibroids are still the most common benign gynecological tumors in women, and more epidemiological investigations and social health prevention and control should be applied.
Earlier sexual debut predicts higher (not lower) levels of father care measured across 12 weeks: an experience sampling study
Authors: Corpuz Randy , Kotov Daria A. , Donovan Rylei L.
Published: June 2023

Across the lifespan, males negotiate the tradeoff between current and future reproduction. From a life history theory (LHT) perspective, resources invested into earlier reproduction pose a cost to later reproduction. The age of sexual debut is a commonplace measure of sexual maturation. However, in males, thorarche (age of first ejaculation) and years from thorarche to age of first reproduction both represent milestones related to reproductive timing. A fundamental prediction from LHT is that earlier sexual maturation—a “quantity” strategy—predicts decreased levels of care per offspring. In the current study, we test this straightforward relationship looking specifically at a father’s investment of time. In a sample of first-time fathers, we measured the amount of time spent with their 9-to-12-month infants longitudinally using an experience sampling method (ESM)—an ecologically valid method of collecting self-report data on fathers’ use of time Fathers contributed data on their time allocation across a 12-week period. They reported on ages of sexual debut, thorarche, and the years between thorarche and first reproduction (i.e., current age) was calculated. Only age of sexual debut had a relationship with time allocated toward infants. Importantly however, this effect was in a direction opposite of our LHT derived hypothesis. Males with earlier sexual debut spent more time with their infants. Discussion focuses on the potential contributions to this finding and limitations related to small effect size, methods and measurement, and sample demographics.
Determinants of psychotherapists’ attitudes to online psychotherapy
Authors: Rutkowska Emilia , Furmańska Joanna , Lane Hakan , Marques Cristiana C. , Martins Maria João , Sahar Najam us , Meixner Johannes , Tullio Valeria , Argo Antonina , Bermeo Barros David Marcelo
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Online psychotherapy is a form of work that is becoming more and more popular. Public health problems, such as COVID-19, forced mental health professionals and patients to incorporate new methodologies such as the use of electronic media and internet to provide follow-up, treatment and also supervision. The aim of this study was to investigate which factors shape the therapists’ attitudes toward online psychotherapy during a pandemic taking into account: (1) attitudes toward the COVID-19 pandemic (fear of contagion, pandemic fatigue, etc.), (2) personal characteristics of the psychotherapists (age, gender, feeling of efficacy, anxiety, depression, etc.), and (3) characteristics of the psychotherapeutic practice (guideline procedure, client age group, professional experience, etc).

Materials and methods

Study participants were 177 psychotherapists from four European countries: Poland (n = 48), Germany (n = 44), Sweden (n = 49), and Portugal (n = 36). Data were collected by means of an individual online survey through the original questionnaire and the standardized scales: a modified version of the Attitudes toward Psychological Online Interventions Scale (APOI), Fear of Contagion by COVID-19 Scale (FCS COVID-19), Pandemic Fatigue Scale (PFS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Social Support Questionnaire (F-SozU K-14), and the Sense of Efficiency Test (SET).

Results

Determinants that impacted psychotherapists’ attitudes toward online therapy were: COVID-19 belief in prevention—keeping distance and hand disinfection, pandemic behavioral fatigue, previous online therapy experience (including voice call), working with youth and adults. Our study showed that belief in the sense of prevention in the form of taking care of hand disinfection before the session, pandemic behavioral fatigue and experience in working with adults were significant predictors of negative attitudes of therapists toward online psychological interventions. On the other hand, belief in the sense of prevention in the form of keeping distance during the session had a positive effect on general attitudes toward therapy conducted via the internet.

Discussion

The online therapy boom during the COVID-19 pandemic has spawned a powerful tool for psychotherapists. More research in this area and training of psychotherapists are needed for online psychological interventions to become an effective therapy format that is accepted by patients and therapists alike.
Sensorimotor expertise influences perceptual weight judgments during observation of a sport-specific gesture
Authors: Albergoni Andrea , Biggio Monica , Faelli Emanuela , Pesce Andrea , Ruggeri Piero , Avanzino Laura , Bove Marco , Bisio Ambra
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to investigate the role of sensorimotor expertise in evaluating relative weight of a lifted object during the observation of a sport-specific gesture, namely the deadlift. Fifty-six participants, assigned to three groups according to their experience in weight lifting, powerlifters, CrossFit® practitioners and naïve participants (controls), performed a perceptual weight judgments task. Participants observed videos showing a powerlifter executing a deadlift at the 80%, 90% and 100% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) and answered a question about the weight of the lifted object. Participants' response accuracy and variability were evaluated. Findings showed that powerlifters were more accurate than controls. No differences appeared between powerlifter and CrossFit® practitioners, and between CrossFit® practitioners and controls. Response variability was similar in the three groups. These findings suggest that a fine sensorimotor expertise specific for the observed gesture is crucial to detect the weight of the object displayed in the observed movement, since it might allow detecting small changes in the observed movement kinematics, which we speculate are at the basis of the object weight recognition.
LightSail 2 Solar Sail Control and Orbit Evolution
Authors: Mansell Justin R. , Bellardo John M. , Betts Bruce , Plante Barbara , Spencer David A.
Published: June 2023

The propellantless thrust of solar sails makes them capable of entirely new classes of missions compared to conventional or electric engines. Initiated in 2010, the Planetary Society’s LightSail program sought to advance solar sail technology with the flights of LightSail 1 and 2. From launch in 2019 to deorbit in late 2022, LightSail 2 demonstrated the first controlled solar sailing in Earth’s orbit using a CubeSat. By adjusting the orientation of the sail relative to the sun twice per orbit, LightSail 2 controlled solar radiation pressure on the sail to offset losses in orbital energy from atmospheric drag. Previous papers analyzed early mission results to show the effect this had on reducing the spacecraft’s orbital decay rate. Subsequent refinements to the spacecraft’s attitude control made throughout the mission eventually enabled it to achieve sustained net increases in orbital energy. This paper presents an analysis of the orbit changes and attitude control performance over the entire mission. Methods of assessing and improving the sail control are described. Activities and attitude behavior during the final deorbit phase are also analyzed, with results relevant to future drag sails as well as solar sail missions.
Airport Cluster Delay Prediction Based on TS-BiLSTM-Attention
Authors: Wei Xiujie , Li Yinfeng , Shang Ranran , Ruan Chang , Xing Jingzhang
Published: June 2023

To conduct an accurate and reliable airport delay prediction will provide an important basis for the macro control of an airspace delay situation and the dynamic allocation of airspace system capacity balance. Accordingly, a method of delay prediction for target airports based on the spatio-temporal delay variables of adjacent airports is proposed in this paper. First, by combining the complex network theory, we first extract the topology of the airport network and create airport clusters with comparable network properties. Second, we develop the TS-BiLSTM-Attention mode to predict the delay per hour for airports in the cluster. As the spatio-temporal feature variables, the arrival delay of airport cluster-associated airports and the delay time series of landing airports are utilized to reach the conclusion. The experimental results indicate that the delay prediction predicated on clusters is superior to that based on data from a single airport. This demonstrates that the delay propagation law derived from cluster data based on spatio-temporal feature extraction can generalize the delay propagation characteristics of airports within clusters.
Measuring Chronic Stress in Broiler Chickens: Effects of Environmental Complexity and Stocking Density on Immunoglobulin-A Levels
Authors: Campbell Andrew M. , Anderson Mallory G. , Jacobs Leonie
Published: June 2023

Commercial housing conditions may contribute to chronic negative stress in broiler chickens, reducing their animal welfare. The objective of this study was to determine how secretory (fecal) and plasma immunoglobulin-A (IgA) levels in fast-growing broilers respond to positive and negative housing conditions. In three replicated experiments, male Ross 708 broilers (n = 1650/experiment) were housed in a 2 × 2 factorial study of high or low environmental complexity and high or low stocking density. In experiments 1 and 3 but not in experiment 2, high complexity tended to positively impact day 48 plasma IgA concentrations. When three experiments were combined, high complexity positively impacted day 48 plasma IgA concentrations. Stocking density and the complexity × density interaction did not impact day 48 plasma IgA concentrations. Environmental complexity and the complexity × density interaction did not impact day 48 secretory IgA concentrations. A high stocking density negatively impacted day 48 secretory IgA concentrations overall but not in individual experiments. These results suggest that environmental complexity decreased chronic stress, while a high stocking density increased chronic stress. Thus, plasma IgA levels increased under high-complexity housing conditions (at day 48), and secretory IgA levels (at day 48) decreased under high-density conditions, suggesting that chronic stress differed among treatments. Therefore, these measures may be useful for quantifying chronic stress but only if the statistical power is high. Future research should replicate these findings under similar and different housing conditions to confirm the suitability of IgA as a measure of chronic stress in broiler chickens.
BullVal$: An Integrated Decision-Support Tool for Predicting the Net Present Value of a Dairy Bull Based on Genetic Merit, Semen Production Potential, and Demographic Factors
Authors: Gorr Allison Q. , Cabrera Victor E. , Meronek James , Weigel Kent A.
Published: June 2023

Deciding when to replace dairy bulls presents a complex challenge for artificial insemination (AI) companies. These decisions encompass multiple factors, including a bull’s age, predicted semen production, and estimated genetic merit. This study’s purpose was to provide a practical, objective tool to assist in these decisions. We utilized a Markov Chain model to calculate the economic valuation of dairy bulls, incorporating key factors such as housing costs, collection and marketing expenses, and the bull’s probable tenure in the herd. Data from a leading AI company were used to establish baseline values. The model further compared a bull’s net present value to that of a potential young replacement, establishing a relative valuation (BullVal$). The range of BullVal$ observed spanned from −USD 316,748 to USD 497,710. Interestingly, the model recommended culling for 49% of the bulls based on negative BullVal$. It was found that a bull’s net present value was primarily influenced by market allocation and pricing, coupled with the interaction of semen production and genetic merit. This study offers a robust, data-driven model to guide bull replacement decisions in AI companies. Key determinants of a bull’s valuation included market dynamics, semen production rates, and genetic merit.
Application of Ultrasound in Detecting and Removing Migrating Grass Awns in Dogs and Cats: A Systematic Review
Authors: Caivano Domenico , Corda Francesca , Corda Andrea , Moretti Giulia , Bufalari Antonello
Published: June 2023

Migrating grass awns are an important cause of disease in dogs and cats. Plant awns can migrate into several body tissues and cavities because of their fusiform shape and backward-pointing barbs. Their migration causes inflammatory tissue reaction and clinical signs depend upon their localization. Ultrasound has been described as a useful, noninvasive, and readily available tool to identify and guide vegetal foreign bodies removal in animals. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize current knowledge on the application of ultrasonography in the identification and removal of grass awns from various anatomic locations in dogs and cats. We selected and analyzed 46 papers on the application of ultrasonography in dogs and cats affected by migrating grass awns. The ultrasonographic appearance of grass awns is characteristic, although their size and location can influence the visualization and the attempt of removal. In some cases, migrating grass awns are not directly visualized by ultrasonography, but the lesions caused by their migration can be easily seen. Ultrasonography can be considered a useful diagnostic tool to localize and remove migrating grass awns; however, when the migration occurs in less accessible locations or discrete foreign bodies are present, this diagnostic tool should be considered as a part of a multidisciplinary approach with advanced diagnostic imaging modalities.
Real-Time Penetration Recognition Based on Voltage Signal in K-TIG Welding
Authors: Bai Huizhong , Ni Na , Wu Yingna , Yang Rui , Xie Guangping
Published: June 2023

This paper focuses on discerning the melting state of keyhole tungsten inert gas (K-TIG) welding, a promising welding technique still considered a novelty. In order to achieve this goal, a sensing system is established to collect voltage signals during the welding process of 304 stainless steel. Analysis of the collected signals reveals that the characteristic signal power spectrum between 36 kHz and 37 kHz is closely related to whether the welding has complete joint penetration. The experimental findings confirm that the spectral power density of the characteristic signal varies significantly with the alteration of welding quality. Moreover, it is observed that when the welding melting state remains unchanged, the change in welding parameters is not noteworthy. When adjusting welding parameters to maintain stable feature signals during the welding process, the corresponding penetration state of the welding does change. Therefore, it is possible to ensure the stability of welding quality by altering welding parameters in real time. These research results provide valuable insights into the real-time quality monitoring of the K-TIG welding process.
Analysis of Operational Energy between Adaptive Reuse Historic Buildings (ARHB) and Modern Office Buildings: A Case Study in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ariyarathna Isuri Shanika , Kariyakarawana Methsika , Abeyrathna Wasudha Prabodhani , Danilina Nina , Halwatura Rangika Umesh
Published: June 2023

Adaptive Reuse of Historic Buildings (ARHB) is a new concept in developing countries like Sri Lanka. One of the main concerns for the intendancy of decision makers to ARHB is the operational energy. This paper analyzes the research gap of reusing historical buildings as office spaces by utilizing their structural and architectural designs and preserving the buildings’ authenticity for the future. It further aims to protect energy-efficient historical buildings from getting demolished and replaced with new modern buildings. A set of operational energy variables of modern office buildings and the potential historic buildings that can be reused as office spaces was established. During the early 1990s, old Dutch-era buildings in the country were mainly used as government office buildings. Three Dutch-era buildings in Galle Fort and three modern buildings in Colombo City have been selected as the case studies. Design-Builder (DB) software was used to comprehensively analyze sets of operational energy consumption variables. Selected historic buildings in Galle consumed 143.74 kWh/m2, 156.34 kWh/m2, and 209.39 kWh/m2 while modern buildings consumed 337.29 kWh/m2, 210.99 kWh/m2, and 382.57 kWh/m2 as operational energy, respectively. According to the analysis, the operational energy requirement of ARHB is comparatively lesser than that of modern buildings. This study, therefore, mainly concludes that the historical buildings saved more operational energy than the modern building envelopes while considerably reducing environmental impacts and saving the building energy cost.
Regional Characteristics of Summer Precipitation Anomalies in the Northeastern Maritime Continent
Authors: Xu Qi , Guan Zhaoyong , Jin Dachao , Chen Wei , Zhu Jing
Published: June 2023

Based on the monthly mean reanalysis data from NCEP/NCAR (National Centers for Environmental Prediction/ National Center for Atmospheric Research) and GPCP (Global Precipitation Climatology Project) (1979–2020), the regional characteristics of precipitation in the warm pool side of the Maritime Continent (MC) and the relationships between different precipitation patterns and atmospheric circulations are studied. The results show that there are significant correlations as well as differences between the precipitation in the east of the Philippines (area A) and that in the Pacific Ocean near the Northern Mariana Islands (area B). Precipitation in area A is closely related to the eastern Pacific ENSO (El Nino-Southern Oscillation) and EAP/PJ (East Asia-Pacific/Pacific-Japan) teleconnection pattern, while precipitation in area B is linked to the Indian Ocean basin-wide and the South China Sea summer monsoon. When the precipitation anomaly in area A is positive, the East Asian summer monsoon is weak. A cyclone appears to the northwest of area A at 850 hPa with convergence airflow. After filtering out the effects of precipitation in area B, the cyclone retreats to the west, and an anticyclone appears to the southeast of area A. When the precipitation is above normal in area B, the circulation and water vapor transportation are similar to that in area A but more to the east. The updraft and downdrafts to both north and south sides of area B form two closed meridional vertical circulations. When the influence of area A is moved out, the circulation center in the warm pool area moves eastward. This research contributes to a better understanding of the regional characteristics of the Maritime Continent and the East Asian summer monsoon.
Systematic Approach for the Test Data Generation and Validation of ISC/ESC Detection Methods
Authors: Klink Jacob , Grabow Jens , Orazov Nury , Benger Ralf , Hauer Ines , Beck Hans-Peter
Published: June 2023

Various methods published in recent years for reliable detection of battery faults (mainly internal short circuit (ISC)) raise the question of comparability and cross-method evaluation, which cannot yet be answered due to significant differences in training data and boundary conditions. This paper provides a Monte Carlo-like simulation approach to generate a reproducible, comprehensible and large dataset based on an extensive literature search on common assumptions and simulation parameters. In some cases, these assumptions are quite different from field data, as shown by comparison with experimentally determined values. Two relatively simple ISC detection methods are tested on the generated dataset and their performance is evaluated to illustrate the proposed approach. The evaluation of the detection performance by quantitative measures such as the Youden-index shows a high divergence with respect to internal and external parameters such as threshold level and cell-to-cell variations (CtCV), respectively. These results underline the importance of quantitative evaluations based on identical test data. The proposed approach is able to support this task by providing cost-effective test data generation with incorporation of known factors affecting detection quality.
A Photothermally Enhanced Vancomycin-Coated Liquid Metal Antimicrobial Agent with Targeting Capability
Authors: Wang Bo , Chen Sen , Sun Xuyang , Shan Xiaohui , Zhu Xiyu , Yuan Bo , Wang Hongzhang , Zhou Gang , Liu Jing
Published: June 2023

The targeted antimicrobial efficacy of Vancomycin decreases significantly over time due to bacterial resistance, whereas Ga-based liquid metals, which are less prone to inducing bacterial resistance, face challenges in achieving targeted antimicrobial effects. To tackle these issues, a highly efficient antimicrobial agent with targeting properties has been developed by combining Ga-based liquid metals and Vancomycin. Moreover, the performance of this antimicrobial agent can be greatly enhanced through the use of near-infrared light. Microscopic observations reveal that Vancomycin can be effectively encapsulated on the surface of liquid metal, facilitated by the presence of the oxide layer. The resulting core–shell structured antimicrobial agent demonstrates notable targeted antimicrobial effects against S. aureus. Antibacterial tests indicate that Vancomycin effectively improves the antibacterial properties of pure liquid metal. Additionally, this study unveils the excellent photothermal conversion capabilities of liquid metal, enabling the antimicrobial agent exposed to 808nm near-infrared light to exhibit significantly strengthened bactericidal performance. In this scenario, the antimicrobial agent can achieve nearly 100% effectiveness. This work enriches the investigation of integrating Ga-based antimicrobial agents with traditional antibiotics, showcasing promising antibacterial effects and establishing the groundwork for subsequent clinical applications.
The Impact of Dance Movement Interventions on Psychological Health in Older Adults without Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Podolski Odile Sophie , Whitfield Tim , Schaaf Leah , Cornaro Clara , Köbe Theresa , Koch Sabine , Wirth Miranka
Published: June 2023

Background: Lifestyle-based multimodal interventions that integrate physical, sensory, cognitive and social enrichment are suggested to promote healthy mental aging and resilience against aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objectives: This meta-analysis examined the efficacy of dance movement interventions (DMI) as an integrated mind–body activity on outcomes of psychological health in older adults. Methods: Pre-registration was carried out with PROSPERO (CRD42021265112). PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating the effects of DMI (>4 weeks’ duration) compared to comparators on measures of psychological health (primary outcome) and cognitive function (additional outcome) among older adults without dementia (aged ≥55). Data of 14 primary RCT (n = 983, n-DMI = 494, n-control = 489) were synthesized using a random effects meta-analysis with robust variance estimation. Results: DMI had a small positive effect on overall psychological health (g = 0.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06, 0.53; p = 0.02, I2= 65.04) compared to control conditions. Small effects of DMI on positive and negative psychological domains as well as quality of life were not statistically significant. DMI had a medium positive effect on general cognitive function (g = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.12, 0.89, p = 0.02, I2= 79.61) over comparators. None of the primary intervention studies evaluated measures of neuroplasticity. Conclusions: We found that DMI was effective in promoting mental health amongst older adults without dementia, suggesting that the multimodal enrichment tool is a potential strategy for health promotion and prevention of AD. High-quality intervention studies are needed to expand evidence on DMI-induced changes in specific psychological domains and identify underlying neurophysiological correlates.
Neuropsychological Activations and Networks While Performing Visual and Kinesthetic Motor Imagery
Authors: Kwon Sechang , Kim Jingu , Kim Teri
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to answer the questions ‘What are the neural networks and mechanisms involved in visual and kinesthetic motor imagery?’, and ‘Is part of cognitive processing included during visual and kinesthetic motor imagery?’ by investigating the neurophysiological networks and activations during visual and kinesthetic motor imagery using motor imagery tasks (golf putting). The experiment was conducted with 19 healthy adults. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to examine neural activations and networks during visual and kinesthetic motor imagery using golf putting tasks. The findings of the analysis on cerebral activation patterns based on the two distinct types of motor imagery indicate that the posterior lobe, occipital lobe, and limbic lobe exhibited activation, and the right hemisphere was activated during the process of visual motor imagery. The activation of the temporal lobe and the parietal lobe were observed during the process of kinesthetic motor imagery. This study revealed that visual motor imagery elicited stronger activation in the right frontal lobe, whereas kinesthetic motor imagery resulted in greater activation in the left frontal lobe. It seems that kinesthetic motor imagery activates the primary somatosensory cortex (BA 2), the secondary somatosensory cortex (BA 5 and 7), and the temporal lobe areas and induces human sensibility. The present investigation evinced that the neural network and the regions of the brain that are activated exhibit variability contingent on the category of motor imagery.
The Self Course: Lessons Learned from Students’ Weekly Questions
Authors: Morin Alain
Published: June 2023

In this paper, I tentatively answer 50 questions sampled from a pool of over 10,000 weekly questions formulated by students in a course entitled “The Self”. The questions pertain to various key topics related to self-processes, such as self-awareness, self-knowledge, self-regulation, self-talk, self-esteem, and self-regulation. The students’ weekly questions and their answers highlight what is currently known about the self. Answers to the student questions also allow for the identification of some recurrent lessons about the self. Some of these lessons include: all self-processes are interconnected (e.g., prospection depends on autobiography), self-terms must be properly defined (e.g., self-rumination and worry are not the same), inner speech plays an important role in self-processes, controversies are numerous (are animals self-aware?), measurement issues abound (e.g., self-recognition as an operationalization of self-awareness), deficits in some self-processes can have devastating effects (e.g., self-regulatory deficits may lead to financial problems), and there are lots of unknowns about the self (e.g., gender differences in Theory-of-Mind).
Skin Cancer Risk, Sun-Protection Knowledge and Behavior in Athletes—A Narrative Review
Authors: Kliniec Katarzyna , Tota Maciej , Zalesińska Aleksandra , Łyko Magdalena , Jankowska-Konsur Alina
Published: June 2023

Outdoor sports are associated with increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which may result in sunburn, solar damage, and skin cancers. Water and winter sports create additional adverse conditions, such as washing away sunscreen by water and reflection of UV rays by the water and snow. Sweating-increased skin photosensitivity and activity-induced immunosuppression are associated with a greater risk of developing skin cancers. In this review, we focus on a group of athletes and sports participants and analyze 62 articles concerning sun exposure during outdoor sports, the risk of developing skin cancer, and knowledge and behavior regarding photoprotection methods. Various practices have been linked to an increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), malignant melanoma (MM), or UV-induced skin damage. Water sports and mountaineering increase the risk of BCC. Surfing and swimming are risk factors for SCC. Melanoma is more common in swimmers, surfers, and marathon runners. Photoprotection behaviors can reduce potential skin damage and skin cancers. Athletes’ knowledge about the risk of malignant lesions was satisfactory, but despite the risks, outdoor sports participants seem not to protect themselves from the sun adequately.
Diffusion of Minimally Invasive Approach for Lung Cancer Surgery in France: A Nationwide, Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bernard Alain , Cottenet Jonathan , Pages Pierre-Benoit , Quantin Catherine
Published: June 2023

Background. The minimally invasive approach (MIA) has gained popularity thanks to its efficacy and safety. Our work consisted of evaluating the diffusion of the MIA in hospitals and the variability of this approach (within and between regions). Methods. All patients who underwent limited resection or lobectomy for lung cancer in France were included from the national hospital administrative database (2013–2020). We described between-hospital differences in the MIA rate over four periods (2013–2014, 2015–2016, 2017–2018, and 2019–2020). The potential influence of the hospital volume, hospital type, and period on the adjusted MIA rate was estimated by a multilevel linear regression. Results. From 2013 to 2020, 77,965 patients underwent a lobectomy or limited resection for lung cancer. The rate of the MIA increased significantly over the four periods (50% in 2019–2020). Variability decreased over time in 7/12 regions. The variables included in the multilevel model were significantly related to the adjusted rate of the MIA. Variability between regions was considerable since 18% of the variance was due to systematic differences between regions. Conclusions. We confirm that the MIA is part of the surgical techniques used on a daily basis for the treatment of lung cancer. However, this technology is mostly used by surgeons in high volume institutions.
Treatment of Recurrent Giant Cell Tumor of Bones: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pitsilos Charalampos , Givissis Panagiotis , Papadopoulos Pericles , Chalidis Byron
Published: June 2023

The giant cell tumor of bones (GCTB) is a benign bone tumor with high postoperative recurrence potential. No specific treatment protocol has been developed to date in case of tumor recurrence, and the kind of re-operative surgery depends upon the surgeon’s preferences. The aim of this systematic review is to determine the second recurrence rate and the respective functional results of the available treatment options applied to recurrent GCTB. Medline/PubMed and Scopus were searched to identify articles published until March 2023. Twelve studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, comprising 458 patients suffering from recurrent GCTB. The overall incidence of second recurrence was 20.5%, at a mean interval of 28.8 months after the first surgery, and it was more evident after intralesional curettage (IC) surgery than en-bloc resection (EBR) (p = 0.012). In the IC group of patients, the second recurrence rate was lower and the functional outcome was greater when polymethylmethacrylate cement (PMMAc) was used as an adjuvant instead of bone grafting (p < 0.001 for both parameters). Reconstruction of the created bone defect after EBR with a structural allograft provided a better outcome than prosthesis (p = 0.028). According to this systematic review, EBR (first choice) and IC with PMMAc (second choice) are the best treatment options for recurrent GCTB.
Optimized Modeling of Metastatic Triple-Negative Invasive Lobular Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Sflomos George , Schaumann Nora , Christgen Matthias , Christgen Henriette , Bartels Stephan , Kreipe Hans , Battista Laura , Brisken Cathrin
Published: June 2023

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a common breast cancer subtype that is often diagnosed at advanced stages and causes significant morbidity. Late-onset secondary tumor recurrence affects up to 30% of ILC patients, posing a therapeutic challenge if resistance to systemic therapy develops. Nonetheless, there is a lack of preclinical models for ILC, and the current models do not accurately reproduce the complete range of the disease. We created clinically relevant metastatic xenografts to address this gap by grafting the triple-negative IPH-926 cell line into mouse milk ducts. The resulting intraductal xenografts accurately recapitulate lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), invasive lobular carcinoma, and metastatic ILC in relevant organs. Using a panel of 15 clinical markers, we characterized the intratumoral heterogeneity of primary and metastatic lesions. Interestingly, intraductal IPH-926 xenografts express low but actionable HER2 and are not dependent on supplementation with the ovarian hormone estradiol for their growth. This model provides a valuable tool to test the efficiency of potential new ILC therapeutics, and it may help detect vulnerabilities within ILC that can be exploited for therapeutic targeting.
Identification of a Twelve-microRNA Signature with Prognostic Value in Stage II Microsatellite Stable Colon Cancer
Authors: Moratalla-Navarro Ferran , Díez-Villanueva Anna , Garcia-Serrano Ainhoa , Closa Adrià , Cordero David , Solé Xavier , Guinó Elisabet , Sanz-Pamplona Rebeca , Sanjuan Xavier , Santos Cristina , Biondo Sebastiano , Salazar Ramón , Moreno Victor
Published: June 2023

We aimed to identify and validate a set of miRNAs that could serve as a prognostic signature useful to determine the recurrence risk for patients with COAD. Small RNAs from tumors of 100 stage II, untreated, MSS colon cancer patients were sequenced for the discovery step. For this purpose, we built an miRNA score using an elastic net Cox regression model based on the disease-free survival status. Patients were grouped into high or low recurrence risk categories based on the median value of the score. We then validated these results in an independent sample of stage II microsatellite stable tumor tissues, with a hazard ratio of 3.24, (CI95% = 1.05–10.0) and a 10-year area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.67. Functional analysis of the miRNAs present in the signature identified key pathways in cancer progression. In conclusion, the proposed signature of 12 miRNAs can contribute to improving the prediction of disease relapse in patients with stage II MSS colorectal cancer, and might be useful in deciding which patients may benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.
The Importance of Stem Cells Isolated from Human Dental Pulp and Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth as Therapeutic Approach in Nervous System Pathologies
Authors: Candelise Niccolò , Santilli Francesca , Fabrizi Jessica , Caissutti Daniela , Spinello Zaira , Moliterni Camilla , Lancia Loreto , Delle Monache Simona , Mattei Vincenzo , Misasi Roberta
Published: June 2023

Despite decades of research, no therapies are available to halt or slow down the course of neuro-degenerative disorders. Most of the drugs developed to fight neurodegeneration are aimed to alleviate symptoms, but none has proven adequate in altering the course of the pathologies. Cell therapy has emerged as an intriguing alternative to the classical pharmacological approach. Cell therapy consists of the transplantation of stem cells that can be obtained from various embryonal and adult tissues. Whereas the former holds notable ethical issue, adult somatic stem cells can be obtained without major concerns. However, most adult stem cells, such as those derived from the bone marrow, are committed toward the mesodermal lineage, and hence need to be reprogrammed to induce the differentiation into the neurons. The discovery of neural crest stem cells in the dental pulp, both in adults’ molar and in baby teeth (dental pulp stem cells and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth, respectively) prompted researchers to investigate their utility as therapy in nervous system disorders. In this review, we recapitulate the advancements on the application of these stem cells in preclinical models of neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting differences and analogies in their maintenance, differentiation, and potential clinical application.
Polarized RPE Secretome Preserves Photoreceptors in Retinal Dystrophic RCS Rats
Authors: Ahluwalia Kabir , Martinez-Camarillo Juan-Carlos , Thomas Biju B. , Naik Aditya , Gonzalez-Calle Alejandra , Pollalis Dimitrios , Lebkowski Jane , Lee Sun Young , Mitra Debbie , Louie Stan G. , Humayun Mark S.
Published: June 2023

Retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa, lack effective therapies. Conventional monotherapeutic approaches fail to target the multiple affected pathways in retinal degeneration. However, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) secretes several neurotrophic factors addressing diverse cellular pathways, potentially preserving photoreceptors. This study explored human embryonic stem cell-derived, polarized RPE soluble factors (PRPE-SF) as a combination treatment for retinal degeneration. PRPE-SF promoted retinal progenitor cell survival, reduced oxidative stress in ARPE-19 cells, and demonstrated critical antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects for preventing retinal degeneration in the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat model. Importantly, PRPE-SF treatment preserved retinal structure and scotopic b-wave amplitudes, suggesting therapeutic potential for delaying retinal degeneration. PRPE-SF is uniquely produced using biomimetic membranes for RPE polarization and maturation, promoting a protective RPE secretome phenotype. Additionally, PRPE-SF is produced without animal serum to avoid immunogenicity in future clinical development. Lastly, PRPE-SF is a combination of neurotrophic factors, potentially ameliorating multiple dysfunctions in retinal degenerations. In conclusion, PRPE-SF offers a promising therapeutic candidate for retinal degenerative diseases, advancing the development of effective therapeutic strategies for these debilitating conditions.
The Ying and Yang of Hydrogen Sulfide as a Paracrine/Autocrine Agent in Neurodegeneration: Focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Spalloni Alida , de Stefano Susanna , Gimenez Juliette , Greco Viviana , Mercuri Nicola B. , Chiurchiù Valerio , Longone Patrizia
Published: June 2023

Ever since its presence was reported in the brain, the nature and role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the Central Nervous System (CNS) have changed. Consequently, H2S has been elected as the third gas transmitter, along with carbon monoxide and nitric oxide, and a number of studies have focused on its neuromodulatory and protectant functions in physiological conditions. The research on H2S has highlighted its many facets in the periphery and in the CNS, and its role as a double-faced compound, switching from protective to toxic depending on its concentration. In this review, we will focus on the bell-shaped nature of H2S as an angiogenic factor and as a molecule released by glial cells (mainly astrocytes) and non-neuronal cells acting on the surrounding environment (paracrine) or on the releasing cells themselves (autocrine). Finally, we will discuss its role in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a paradigm of a neurodegenerative disease.