bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quadrivalent HPV (4vHPV) vaccine immunogenicity and safety in women using immunosuppressive drugs due to solid organ transplant
Authors: Miyaji Karina Takesaki , Infante Vanessa , Picone Camila Melo , Dillner Joakim , Kann Hanna , Eklund Carina , Levi José Eduardo , de Oliveira Ana Carolina Soares , Lara Amanda Nazareth , Kawakami Lyca Suzuki , Tacla Maricy , Castanheira Cristina Paula , Mayaud Philippe , Sartori Ana Marli Christovam
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Immunocompromised persons are at high risk of persistent Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection and associated diseases. Few studies evaluated HPV vaccines in immunocompromised persons. This study aimed to evaluate the quadrivalent HPV vaccine (4vHPV) immunogenicity and safety in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, in comparison to immunocompetent women (IC).

Methods

Open-label clinical trial that enrolled SOT recipients and immunocompetent women aged 18 to 45 years. All participants received three doses of 4vHPV vaccine. Blood samples were drawn for evaluation of immune responses at baseline and one month after the third vaccination. Seroconversion rates and antibody geometric mean concentration (GMC) against HPV 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 35, 52 and 58 were measured with in-house multiplexed serology assay (xMAP technology). Follow-up for the local and systemic adverse events (AEs) continued for seven days after each vaccination. Severe AEs were evaluated throughout the study.

Results

125 SOT and 132 immunocompetent women were enrolled; 105 (84%) SOT and 119 (90%) immunocompetent women completed the study. At baseline, HPV seropositivity was not significantly different between groups. Seroconversion rates were significantly lower in SOT (HPV18, 57%; HPV6 and 16, 69%; and HPV11, 72%) than in immunocompetent women (100% seroconversion to all vaccine types) (p<0.001). Antibody GMCs of all four HPV vaccine types were also significantly lower in SOT (p<0.001). Pain in the injection site and headache were the most frequent adverse event in both groups. Local pain was more frequent in immunocompetent women than in SOT recipients. Rates of other AEs were comparable in both groups.

Conclusion

4vHPV vaccine was well-tolerated by SOT recipients. We found strong evidence of lower humoral immune responses to 4vHPV vaccine in SOT compared to immunocompetent women, which strengthen recommendation of routine cervical cancer screening in SOT recipients regardless of HPV vaccination status.
Atypical cutaneous leishmaniasis: a new challenge to VL elimination in South-East Asia
Authors: Jain Manju , Sangma Diya A’gitok , Parida Lipsalely , Negi Rohit , Negi Ajeet , Matlashewski Greg , Lypaczewski Patrick
Published: November 2024

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by L. donovani in South-East Asian endemic countries including India, Nepal and Bangladesh has been the primary focus of the ongoing VL elimination program. With a major reduction in VL cases resulting from the elimination program during the last two decades, the efforts are now focused on the challenges posed by potential reservoirs within the asymptomatic cases, HIV-co-infection VL cases and Post Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) cases that continue to sustain the parasite transmission cycle in known and newer endemic zones. This article brings attention to a new potential parasite reservoir in the form of atypical cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) cases caused by novel L. donovani genetic variants. L. donovani mediated ACL is an emerging phenomenon in recent endemic sites that now justify a need for implementing molecular surveillance tools to identify region-specific L. donovani variants with dermotropic capabilities and potential to revert to visceral disease. A timely detection of novel ACL causing L. donovani genetic lineages in South-East Asian endemic regions is necessary to halt the spread of ACL and is potentially crucial for the sustainability of the advances made by the VL elimination.
Hematologic cancers and infections: how to detect infections in advance and determine the type?
Authors: Chen Yan , Ma Tao
Published: November 2024

Infection is one of the leading causes of death in patients with hematologic cancers. Hematologic cancer patients with compromised immune systems are already susceptible to infections, which come on even more rapidly and are difficult to control after they develop neutrophil deficiencies from high-dose chemotherapy. After patients have developed an infection, the determination of the type of infection becomes a priority for clinicians. In this review, we summarize the biomarkers currently used for the prediction of infections in patients with hematologic cancers; procalcitonin, CD64, cytokines, and CD14 et al. can be used to determine bacterial infections, and (1-3)-β-D-glucan and galactomannan et al. can be used as a determination of fungal infections. We have also focused on the use of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in infections in patients with hematologic cancers, which has excellent clinical value in infection prediction and can detect microorganisms that cannot be detected by conventional testing methods such as blood cultures. Of course, we also focused on infection biomarkers that are not yet used in blood cancer patients but could be used as a future research direction, e.g., human neutrophil lipocalin, serum amyloid A, and heparin-binding protein et al. Finally, clinicians need to combine multiple infection biomarkers, the patient’s clinical condition, local susceptibility to the type of infection, and many other factors to make a determination of the type of infection.
Application of tongue image characteristics and oral-gut microbiota in predicting pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes with machine learning
Authors: Deng Jialin , Dai Shixuan , Liu Shi , Tu Liping , Cui Ji , Hu Xiaojuan , Qiu Xipeng , Jiang Tao , Xu Jiatuo
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aimed to characterize the oral and gut microbiota in prediabetes mellitus (Pre-DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients while exploring the association between tongue manifestations and the oral-gut microbiota axis in diabetes progression.

Methods

Participants included 30 Pre-DM patients, 37 individuals with T2DM, and 28 healthy controls. Tongue images and oral/fecal samples were analyzed using image processing and 16S rRNA sequencing. Machine learning techniques, including support vector machine (SVM), random forest, gradient boosting, adaptive boosting, and K-nearest neighbors, were applied to integrate tongue image data with microbiota profiles to construct predictive models for Pre-DM and T2DM classification.

Results

Significant shifts in tongue characteristics were identified during the progression from Pre-DM to T2DM. Elevated Firmicutes levels along the oral-gut axis were associated with white greasy fur, indicative of underlying metabolic changes. An SVM-based predictive model demonstrated an accuracy of 78.9%, with an AUC of 86.9%. Notably, tongue image parameters (TB-a, perALL) and specific microbiota (Escherichia, Porphyromonas-A) emerged as prominent diagnostic markers for Pre-DM and T2DM.

Conclusion

The integration of tongue diagnosis with microbiome analysis reveals distinct tongue features and microbial markers. This approach significantly improves the diagnostic capability for Pre-DM and T2DM.
Insights into the role of Streptococcus oralis as an opportunistic pathogen in infectious diseases
Authors: Ren Jingyi , Sun Peng , Wang Meijuan , Zhou Wenjuan , Liu Zhonghao
Published: November 2024

Streptococcus oralis, belonging to the viridans group streptococci (VGS), has been considered a member of normal flora mainly inhabiting the oral cavity. However, more recently, there has been growing recognition of its role as a causative agent in various life-threatening infectious diseases such as infective endocarditis (IE) and meningitis. Additionally, the differences in the prevalence, clinical features, and prognosis of opportunistic infections between S. oralis and other VGS species have been addressed. Particularly the predominance of S. oralis in IE has drawn critical attention. In potentially fatal infections, clinical neglect of S. oralis as an instigating agent might significantly impede early diagnosis and treatment. Nevertheless, to date, the infectious diseases associated with S. oralis have not yet been comprehensively described. Therefore, this review will give an overview of infectious diseases caused by S. oralis to uncover its hidden role as an opportunistic pathogen.
Navigating constraints: news values and journalistic role performance in Chinese state media VR news
Authors: Zhou Yongyuan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study explores the intersection of virtual reality (VR) technology and journalism, with a particular focus on the application of VR in news productions by China Central Television (CCTV). The research aims to assess how VR enhances immersive storytelling, the prevailing news values it supports, and how journalistic roles are performed within these productions in China.

Methods

A content analysis was conducted on 234 VR news productions by CCTV, examining the use of immersive elements, the representation of news values, and the roles of journalists in the context of VR news.

Results

The findings indicate that, while VR enhances audience engagement through immersive experiences, its application in CCTV’s VR news remains limited in scope. The technology is primarily employed within traditional journalistic frameworks, often emphasizing the loyal-facilitator role.

Discussion

The study reveals that immersive journalism at CCTV tends to support state-aligned narratives, promoting positive news values and limiting the critical engagement typically associated with more interventionist journalistic models. By examining the news values and the nuanced performances of journalistic roles in the context of VR news, this research contributes to the broader understanding of how emerging technologies like VR are shaping journalistic practices in authoritarian media systems, offering insights into both the potential and limitations of VR in enhancing audience engagement while maintaining journalistic integrity.
Using an app-based screening tool to predict deficits in written word spelling at school entry
Authors: Schöfl Martin , Steinmair Gabriele , Zepnik Sabine , Weber Christoph
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The first year of schooling is crucial for the further development of spelling abilities in children, which makes early assessment and intervention essential. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an efficient and cost-free screening tool for identifying spelling problems in community school settings around the time of school entry.

Methods

A broad range of precursors of spelling (vocabulary, grammar, letter knowledge, phonological awareness, phonological working memory, rapid automatized naming) were assessed in 522 Austrian first graders (6–7 years of age) in the first weeks of schooling. At the end of first grade, spelling abilities were assessed by newly developed spelling tasks based on the trochaic foot. By applying logistic regression with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), we aimed to select a set of important predictors of spelling problems at the end of grade 1 (i.e., scoring below the 16th percentile in the spelling test).

Results

Our analysis identified letter knowledge (i.e., an aspect of phonological information processing) and sentence repetition (i.e., a measure of grammatical knowledge) as important predictors of spelling problems. The screening tool has acceptable diagnostic accuracy [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.0.725 and DeLong 95% CI (0.666, 0.784)]. Further analyses indicated that the AUC differs neither between boys and girls nor between children with and without German as their first language.

Discussion

These results suggest that administering the screening tool during the first weeks of schooling is a valid approach to identifying spelling deficits, which in turn enables early targeted pedagogical interventions. Practical implications for spelling instructions are discussed.
Mendelian randomization studies of lifestyle-related risk factors for stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tian Yi , Tang Xin , Liu Yi , Liu Shu Yi
Published: November 2024

Objective

Stroke risk factors often exert long-term effects, and Mendelian randomization (MR) offers significant advantages over traditional observational studies in evaluating the causal impact of these factors on stroke. This study aims to consolidate and evaluate the relationships between potential causal factors and stroke risk, drawing upon existing MR research.

Methods

A comprehensive search for MR studies related to stroke was conducted up to August 2023 using databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus. This meta-analysis examines the relationships between potential causative factors and stroke risk. Both random-effects and fixed-effects models were utilized to compile the dominance ratios of various causative elements linked to stroke. The reliability of the included studies was assessed according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology incorporating Mendelian Randomization (STROBE-MR) guidelines.

Results

The analysis identified several risk factors for stroke, including obesity, hypertension, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and smoking. Protective factors included high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and educational attainment. Subgroup analysis revealed that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) are risk factors for ischemic stroke (IS).

Conclusion

This study confirms that variables such as obesity, hypertension, elevated LDL-C levels, CKD, and smoking are significantly linked to the development of stroke. Our findings provide new insights into genetic susceptibility and potential biological pathways involved in stroke development.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024503049.
Preclinical characterization of MTX-101: a novel bispecific CD8 Treg modulator that restores CD8 Treg functions to suppress pathogenic T cells in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Gardell Jennifer L. , Maurer Meghan E. , Childs Monica M. , Pham Minh N. , Meengs Brent , Julien Susan H. , Tan Cong , Boster Daniel R. , Quach Phoenicia , Therriault Jon H. , Hermansky Gleda , Patton Daniel T. , Bowser Justin , Chen Alex , Morgan Nadine N. , Gilbertson Emily A. , Bogatzki Lisa , Encarnacion Kaelen , McMahan Catherine J. , Crane Courtney A. , Swiderek Kristine M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Regulatory CD8 T cells (CD8 Treg) are responsible for the selective killing of self-reactive and pathogenic CD4 T cells. In autoimmune disease, CD8 Treg may accumulate in the peripheral blood but fail to control the expansion of pathogenic CD4 T cells that subsequently cause tissue destruction. This CD8 Treg dysfunction is due in part to the expression of inhibitory killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR; KIR2DL isoforms [KIR2DL1, KIR2DL2, and KIR2DL3]); these molecules serve as autoimmune checkpoints and limit CD8 Treg activation.

Methods

Here we describe the pre-clinical characterization of MTX-101, a bispecific antibody targeting inhibitory KIR and CD8. Using human peripheral blood mononuculear cells (PBMC) derived from healthy donors and autoimmune patients, humanized mouse models, and human derived tissue organoids, we evaluated the molecular mechanisms and functional effects of MTX-101.

Results

By binding to KIR, MTX-101 inhibited KIR signaling that can restore CD8 Treg ability to eliminate pathogenic CD4 T cells. MTX-101 bound and activated CD8 Treg in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), resulting in increased CD8 Treg cytolytic capacity, activation, and prevalence. Enhancing CD8 Treg function with MTX-101 reduced pathogenic CD4 T cell expansion and inflammation, without increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines or activating immune cells that express either target alone. MTX-101 reduced antigen induced epithelial cell death in disease affected tissues, including in tissue biopsies from individuals with autoimmune disease (i.e., celiac disease, Crohn’s disease). The effects of MTX-101 were specific to autoreactive CD4 T cells and did not suppress responses to viral and bacterial antigens. In a human PBMC engrafted Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD) mouse model of acute inflammation, MTX-101 bound CD8 Treg and delayed onset of disease. MTX-101 induced dose dependent binding, increased prevalence and cytolytic capacity of CD8 Treg, as well as increased CD4 T cell death. MTX-101 selectively bound CD8 Treg without unwanted immune cell activation or increase of pro-inflammatory serum cytokines and exhibited an antibody-like half-life in pharmacokinetic and exploratory tolerability studies performed using IL-15 transgenic humanized mice with engrafted human lymphocytes, including CD8 Treg at physiologic ratios.

Conclusion

Collectively, these data support the development of MTX-101 for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Bladder cancer immune-related markers: diagnosis, surveillance, and prognosis
Authors: Yang Tiantian , Luo Wanru , Yu Jie , Zhang Huiping , Hu Meichun , Tian Jun
Published: November 2024

As an immune-related tumor type, bladder cancer has been attracting much attention in the study of its markers. In recent years, researchers have made rapid progress in the study of immune-related markers for bladder cancer. Studies have shown that immune-related markers play an important role in the diagnosis, prognosis assessment and treatment of bladder cancer. In addition, the detection of immune-related markers can also be used to evaluate the efficacy of immunotherapy and predict the treatment response of patients. Therefore, in depth study of the expression of immune-related markers in bladder cancer and their application in the clinic is of great significance and is expected to provide new breakthroughs for individualized treatment of bladder cancer. Future studies will focus more on how to detect immune-related markers with low cost and high accuracy, as well as develop new immunotherapeutic strategies to bring better therapeutic outcomes to bladder cancer patients.
Association between Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCAT) and Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (ACIC): a Brazilian cross-sectional study
Authors: Gomes Brenda Lorrana de Almeida , Mota Renan Felipe Neves , Braga Renata Sant'ana , Nunes Cynthia Assis de Barros , Guimarães Rafael Alves , Rodrigues Ana Paula dos Santos , Batista Sandro Rogério Rodrigues , Pagotto Valéria
Published: November 2024

Aim

To analyze the association between Primary Health Care (PHC) performance and institutional ability to provide care for individuals with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

Methods

Cross-sectional study conducted with primary care nurses and physicians in Brazil. The performance of PHC was assessed by using the Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCAT), whereas institutional ability for the care of people with NCDs was assessed through the Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (ACIC). Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the association between the PHC attributes measured in the PCAT (independent variables) and the ACIC dimensions (dependent variables).

Results

In total, 308 health professionals −190 nurses (61.7%) and 118 physicians (38.3%)—at mean age 37.5 years and mean time of 6.5 years working in PHC participated of the study. On a scale of 0 to 10, the overall PCAT score was 6.74, while the ACIC score was 5.20. The PCAT score was High in only 58.8% of respondents (score ≥6.6). The ACIC scores showed basic institutional ability to care for people with NCDs. All ACIC dimensions have shown positive correlation to PCAT attributes, except for accessibility, continuity of care and care coordination.

Conclusion

A positive association was found between PHC performance and institutional ability to care for people with NCDs. Results have evidenced the need of investing in PCH by providing technical, political, logistical and financial support to PHC units to improve PHC organization points and care for people with NCDs.
Differential expression of ferroptosis-related proteins in urinary exosomes: potential indicators for monitoring acute gout attack
Authors: Wang Jitu , Lin Yubin , Liu Na , Hu Mei , Zhang Man
Published: November 2024

Background

Gout is the most prevalent form of inflammatory arthritis, characterized by significant pain during acute episodes. Current diagnostic and monitoring techniques are invasive and fail to predict the onset of acute attacks. Recent studies have implicated ferroptosis-related proteins in the pathogenesis of inflammation and gout; however, their clinical relevance in gout patients remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of these proteins in urinary exosomes from gout patients and to investigate their potential as noninvasive biomarkers.

Methods

Utilizing data-independent acquisition (DIA) mass spectrometry and advanced bioinformatics techniques, we assessed the expression of ferroptosis-related proteins in the urinary exosomes of three groups: acute gout patients (AD group), intermittent gout patients (ID group), and normal controls (NC group). We constructed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to determine the clinical utility of these proteins in monitoring acute gout attacks.

Results

Our analysis of urinary exosome proteomics identified 13 ferroptosis-related proteins. Notably, in comparison to the ID group, the proteins ACSL4, VDAC2, GPX4, and GSS were significantly upregulated in the AD group. ROC curve analysis revealed that the presence of ACSL4, VDAC2, and GPX4 in urinary exosomes possesses substantial predictive value for acute gout attacks.

Conclusion

In patients with gout, numerous protein alterations occur within urinary exosomes. Specifically, changes in ferroptosis-related proteins such as ACSL4, VDAC2, GPX4, and GSS may serve as promising biomarkers for the monitoring of acute gout attacks.
Social determinants of health associated with increased prevalence of childhood malnutrition in Africa
Authors: Saidu Samuel Faraday , Danielson Ramona Ann
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Childhood malnutrition remains a critical public health concern in Africa, with significant long-term consequences for children’s growth, development, and overall health.

Methods

This study examined the association between the prevalence of underweight and stunting of children <5 and six social determinants of health. Data were taken from publicly available data sources. After data quality criteria were met, data were analyzed for 50 African countries using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA. A quartile analysis was performed on each predictor variable. Countries were also analyzed according to five subregions.

Results

The average prevalence of children <5 who were underweight was 14.5% and who were stunted was 26.8%. There were significant differences by region in the prevalence of underweight but not stunting, and in average access to basic sanitation services, basic drinking-water services, literacy rate, and HAQ index. The quartile analysis indicated basic sanitation services, prevalence of open defecation, basic drinking-water services, literacy rate, HAQ Index, and Political Stability Score were statistically significantly associated (p < 0.05) with underweight, while all of these except open defecation were associated (p < 0.05) with stunting.

Discussion

This study emphasizes the variations in underweight and stunting prevalence, but also demonstrates patterns among how the risk for these child malnutrition outcomes are distributed. The results offer a multifaceted understanding of factors influencing childhood malnutrition. By focusing on key underlying social determinants of health, substantial improvements in nutritional outcomes may be achieved, ultimately enhancing the health and well-being of children across the African continent.
Case report: A rare case of breast and multiorgan metastases secondary to papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Huang Wenqin , Yang Yalong , Zhan Peng , Jiang Liang , Chen Jian , Zheng Hongmei
Published: November 2024

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is generally considered a highly indolent endocrine malignancy, often accompanied by cervical lymph node metastasis and rarely involving distant metastases. We present a rare case of a 37-year-old woman with PTC, who exhibited regional lymph node metastasis, right breast metastasis, and probable right psoas major and multiple bone metastases. Initial symptoms included hoarseness, and subsequent examination revealed a secondary malignant tumor in the right breast, originating from the thyroid gland. This case highlights an unusual pattern of multiple systemic metastasis in PTC, particularly the rare occurrence of breast metastasis.
The correlation between multi-mode ultrasonographic features of breast cancer and axillary lymph node metastasis
Authors: Xu Shijian , Wang Qi , Hong Zhe
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore the correlation between multi-mode ultrasonographic features of breast cancer and axillary lymph node metastasis.

Method

A total of 196 patients with surgically confirmed breast cancer between September 2019 and December 2023 were included. Data on preoperative B-mode ultrasound (US), color Doppler, and shear wave elastography (SWE) features of breast cancer masses were collected and analyzed to determine their correlation with axillary lymph node metastasis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of B-mode US, color Doppler, SWE, and the multi-mode predictive model for evaluating axillary lymph node metastasis were compared.

Results

Among the 196 patients, 70 had positive axillary lymph nodes, while 126 had negative axillary lymph nodes. There was no significant difference in the color features between the negative and positive axillary lymph node groups. Multifocality/multicentricity, architectural distortion, microcalcifications, and the “stiff rim” sign in SWE were identified as independent risk factors to predict axillary lymph node metastasis according to binary logistic regression analysis. The AUC of the predictive model based on these independent risk factors was 0.803 (95% CI: 0.739–0.867), which was significantly higher than that of B-mode US or SWE alone.

Conclusion

Multifocality/multicentricity, architectural distortion, microcalcifications, and the “stiff rim” sign in SWE were found to be valuable for predicting axillary lymph node metastasis in patients with breast cancer. The predictive model developed in this study, combining the multi-mode ultrasonographic features of breast cancer masses, could serve as a noninvasive and convenient method to predict axillary lymph node status. This approach could aid in clinical decision-making and individualized treatment to improve the prognosis of breast cancer patients.
Multi-omics association study integrating GWAS and pQTL data revealed MIP-1α as a potential drug target for erectile dysfunction
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Pan Renbing
Published: November 2024

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) brings heavy burden to patients and society. Despite the availability of established therapies, existing medications have restricted efficacy. Therefore, we utilized a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to find the drug targets that might enhance the clinical outcome of ED.

Methods

Genetic instruments associated with circulating inflammatory proteins were obtained from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving 8,293 European participants. Summary statistics for ED were extracted from a meta-analysis of the United Kingdom Biobank cohort compromised of 6,175 cases and 217,630 controls with European descent. We utilized multi-omics method and MR study to explore potential drug targets by integrating GWAS and protein quantity trait loci (pQTL) data. Inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was applied as the primary approach. Cochran’s Q statistics was employed to investigate the presence of heterogeneity. Furthermore, we identify the potential therapeutic drug targets for the treatment of ED utilizing molecular docking technology.

Results

This MR analysis of integrating GWAS and pQTL data showed that macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha (MIP-1α) was causally associated with the risk of ED (OR:1.19, 95%CI:1.02–1.39, p = 0.023). Meanwhile, the results of the weighted median model were consistent with the IVW estimates (OR:1.26, 95%CI:1.04–1.52, p = 0.018). Sensitivity analysis revealed no horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity. Furthermore, four anti-inflammatory or tonifying small molecular compounds, encompassing echinacea, pinoresinol diglucoside, hypericin, and icariin were identified through molecular docking technology.

Conclusion

This study identified MIP-1α as an underlying druggable gene and promising novel therapeutic target for ED, necessitating further investigation to detect the potential mechanisms by which MIP-1α might impact the development of ED.
Digital models for the selection of party organs and election candidates in Spanish political parties: the impact of intraparty democracy
Authors: Sánchez Medero Gema
Published: November 2024

Processes for selecting party officials and election candidates are key aspects of the internal democracy of political parties. This is not only because they reveal who is appointed, but also because they provide insight into intra-party dynamics and the levels of internal democracy within the parties. The aim of this article is to offer a general overview of the internal selection models used by Spanish political parties with representation in the Congress of Deputies, in order to determine whether online procedures are as widespread as is often believed, and, whether they have any real impact on intra-party democracy. We look into whether political parties are making widespread use of digital tools to promote new selection processes, whether the establishment of online selection mechanisms impacts the internal democracy of political parties and what types of parties are primarily using these tools. For this purpose we have conducted a taxonomy of the selection processes in Spanish political parties represented in the Congress of Deputies, based on the development of a model of indicators drawing on some previous studies.
The conceptual framework for the therapeutic approach used in phase 3 trials of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD
Authors: O’Donnell Kelley C. , Okano Lauren , Alpert Michael , Nicholas Christopher R. , Thomas Chantelle , Poulter Bruce , Mithoefer Ann , Mithoefer Michael , Ot’alora G Marcela
Published: November 2024

Results from multiple recent studies support further evaluation of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in conjunction with psychotherapy (i.e., MDMA-Assisted Therapy) in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In two Phase 3 trials, MDMA-Assisted Therapy comprised a short-term, intensive psychotherapy that included three sessions directly facilitated by MDMA (referred to as “experimental sessions”), as well as a number of non-drug psychotherapy sessions. This treatment model aimed to harness the potential of MDMA to facilitate recall and processing of traumatic memories, and to increase learning in a social context, integrating “top-down” and “bottom-up” approaches to trauma-focused care. To date, the conceptual framework for this treatment has not been described in the scientific literature. This omission has contributed to misunderstandings about both the theoretical underpinnings of this modality and the therapeutic approach that emerges from it. This paper delineates the psychotherapeutic concepts, theories, and historical antecedents underlying the inner-directed approach to MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD. Broadly speaking, this therapeutic framework centered the concept of the participant’s inner healing intelligence as the primary agent of change, with the therapeutic relationship being the core facilitative condition fostering the participant’s self-directed movement toward recovery and growth. Corollaries to this holistic, self-directed, relational, and trauma-informed framework include a non-pathologizing approach to the participant’s embodied experience (including the possibility of intense emotional and somatic expression, experiences of multiplicity, suicidal ideation, and multigenerational and transpersonal experiences), as well as the therapists’ own psychodynamic, somatic, and transpersonal awareness, empathic attunement, relational skillfulness, and cultural humility. The use of MDMA in conjunction with this psychotherapy platform outperformed the use of placebo with psychotherapy in Phase 2 and 3 trials, as measured by symptom reduction in participants with PTSD. However, within-group comparisons also identified significant symptom reduction in participants who did not receive MDMA, lending empirical support to the psychotherapy model itself. In addition to comparative efficacy trials, future research should investigate which elements of the conceptual framework and therapeutic approach underlie the clinical benefit in individuals with PTSD.
Integrating large language models in mental health practice: a qualitative descriptive study based on expert interviews
Authors: Ma Yingzhuo , Zeng Yi , Liu Tong , Sun Ruoshan , Xiao Mingzhao , Wang Jun
Published: November 2024

Background

Progress in developing artificial intelligence (AI) products represented by large language models (LLMs) such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT has sparked enthusiasm for their potential use in mental health practice. However, the perspectives on the integration of LLMs within mental health practice remain an underreported topic. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how mental health and AI experts conceptualize LLMs and perceive the use of integrating LLMs into mental health practice.

Method

In February–April 2024, online semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 experts (12 psychiatrists, 7 mental health nurses, 2 researchers in medical artificial intelligence) from four provinces in China, using snowballing and purposive selection sampling. Respondents’ discussions about their perspectives and expectations of integrating LLMs in mental health were analyzed with conventional content analysis.

Results

Four themes and eleven sub-themes emerged from this study. Firstly, participants discussed the (1) practice and application reform brought by LLMs into mental health (fair access to mental health services, enhancement of patient participation, improvement in work efficiency and quality), and then analyzed the (2) technological-mental health gap (misleading information, lack of professional nuance and depth, user risk). Based on these points, they provided a range of (3) prerequisites for the integration of LLMs in mental health (training and competence, guidelines for use and management, patient engagement and transparency) and expressed their (4) expectations for future developments (reasonable allocation of workload, upgrades and revamps of LLMs).

Conclusion

These findings provide valuable insights into integrating LLMs within mental health practice, offering critical guidance for institutions to effectively implement, manage, and optimize these tools, thereby enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health services.
Partial Discharge Data Augmentation and Pattern Recognition Method Based on DAE-GAN
Authors: Du Xin , Qi Jun , Kang Jiyi , Sun Zezhong , Wang Chunxin , Xie Jun
Published: November 2024

Accurate identification of partial discharge (PD) and its types is essential for assessing the operating conditions of electrical equipment. To enhance PD pattern recognition under imbalanced and limited sample conditions, a method based on a Deep Autoencoder-embedded Generative Adversarial Network (DAE-GAN) is proposed. First, the Deep Autoencoder (DAE) is embedded within the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) to improve the realism of generated samples. Then, complementary PD data samples are introduced during GAN training to address the issue of limited sample size. Lastly, the model’s discriminator is fine-tuned with augmented and balanced training data to enable PD pattern recognition. The DAE-GAN method is used to augment data and recognize patterns in experimental PD signals. The results demonstrate that, under imbalanced and small sample conditions, DAE-GAN generates more authentic PD samples with improved probability distribution fitting compared to other algorithms, leading to varying levels of enhancement in pattern recognition accuracy.
Electroencephalogram Emotion Recognition via AUC Maximization
Authors: Xiao Minheng , Bo Shi
Published: November 2024

Imbalanced datasets pose significant challenges in areas including neuroscience, cognitive science, and medical diagnostics, where accurately detecting minority classes is essential for robust model performance. This study addressed the issue of class imbalance, using the ‘liking’ label in the DEAP dataset as an example. Such imbalances were often overlooked by prior research, which typically focused on the more balanced arousal and valence labels and predominantly used accuracy metrics to measure model performance. To tackle this issue, we adopted numerical optimization techniques aimed at maximizing the area under the curve (AUC), thus enhancing the detection of underrepresented classes. Our approach, which began with a linear classifier, was compared against traditional linear classifiers, including logistic regression and support vector machines (SVMs). Our method significantly outperformed these models, increasing recall from 41.6% to 79.7% and improving the F1-score from 0.506 to 0.632. These results underscore the effectiveness of AUC maximization methods in neuroscience research by offering a robust solution for managing imbalanced datasets, developing more precise diagnostic tools and interventions for detecting critical minority classes in real-world scenarios.
EEG Data Augmentation Method for Identity Recognition Based on Spatial–Temporal Generating Adversarial Network
Authors: Hu Yudie , Sun Lei , Mao Xiuqing , Zhang Shuai
Published: November 2024

Traditional identity recognition methods are facing significant security challenges due to their vulnerability to leakage and forgery. Brainprint recognition, a novel biometric identification technology leveraging EEG signals, has emerged as a promising alternative owing to its advantages such as resistance to coercion, non-forgeability, and revocability. Nevertheless, the scarcity of high-quality electroencephalogram (EEG) data limits the performance of brainprint recognition systems, necessitating the use of shallow models that may not perform optimally in real-world scenarios. Data augmentation has been demonstrated as an effective solution to address this issue. However, EEG data encompass diverse features, including temporal, frequency, and spatial components, posing a crucial challenge in preserving these features during augmentation. This paper proposes an end-to-end EEG data augmentation method based on a spatial–temporal generative adversarial network (STGAN) framework. Within the discriminator, a temporal feature encoder and a spatial feature encoder were parallelly devised. These encoders effectively captured global dependencies across channels and time of EEG data, respectively, leveraging a self-attention mechanism. This approach enhances the data generation capabilities of the GAN, thereby improving the quality and diversity of the augmented EEG data. The identity recognition experiments were conducted on the BCI-IV2A dataset, and Fréchet inception distance (FID) was employed to evaluate data quality. The proposed method was validated across three deep learning models: EEGNET, ShallowConvNet, and DeepConvNet. Experimental results indicated that data generated by STGAN outperform DCGAN and RGAN in terms of data quality, and the identity recognition accuracies on the three networks were improved by 2.49%, 2.59% and 1.14%, respectively.
A PCR-Based Approach for Early Diagnosis of Head and Neck Aspergillosis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gomes Thaís Ellen Chaves , Bastos Victor Coutinho , Boniek Douglas , Romañach Mário , Rocha Fernanda Faria , Chaves Roberta Rayra Martins , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: November 2024

Background: Aspergillosis is a fungal disease caused by the inhalation of fungal spores of the genus Aspergillus spp. This fungus mainly affects the lungs but can spread and infect the maxillofacial region through the bloodstream or inoculation of the fungus after extraction or endodontic treatment, especially in the upper posterior teeth. The disease has nonspecific clinical manifestations that hinder its early diagnosis. Although the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique holds promise as a diagnostic tool for aspergillosis, anatomopathological analysis services do not routinely adopt this method. Objectives: Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the applicability of PCR and standardise the techniques of preparation of biological samples for the detection of the three species: Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus. Methods: Six samples of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue (FFPE) with a histopathological diagnosis suggestive of aspergillosis were investigated using PCR. As a positive control for the PCR reaction, morphologically and genetically characterized cultures were used, with their sequences deposited at NCBI under accession codes MW837777 (A. fumigatus) and MW837779 (A. niger). The A. flavus culture used is reference RC 2053. Results: Four of the six samples evaluated were positive for Aspergillus spp., of which one was co-infected with A. fumigatus and A. flavus species, while two others were positive only for A. flavus, and one sample was positive only for A. fumigatus. Conclusions: These findings suggest that PCR can be used as an auxiliary method for diagnosing aspergillosis. However, this was a pilot study, and expansion of the sample size and the evaluation of PCR in comparison with other diagnostic tests for aspergillosis are essential to determine the accuracy of the method.
Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of the Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI-BrA) for Use in Brazilian Adolescents
Authors: Barbosa Mariane Carolina Faria , Baldiotti Ana Luiza Peres , Firmino Ramon Targino , Paiva Saul Martins , Granville-Garcia Ana Flávia , Ferreira Fernanda de Morais
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Portuguese version of Digital Health Literacy Instrument for Brazilian Adolescents (DHLI-BrA). Two hundred and sixty Brazilian adolescents answered the DHLI-BrA and the Brazilian version of quality-of-life and health literacy instruments: WHOQOL-Bref, eHEALS-BrA, NVS-BR, and REALMD-20. Then, they answered a questionnaire on sociodemographics, health, Internet access, and digital health aspects. The data collection was conducted between September and December of 2022.The statistical test assessed internal consistency, stability, discriminant and convergent validities, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Item response theory (IRT) analysis using 2PL was applied to performance-based DHLI-BrA. The DHLI-BrA self-reported questions demonstrated almost perfect internal consistency (α and ω = 0.83) and good stability (ICC = 0.906; 95% CI: 0.75–0.95). In EFA and CFA, the best-adjusted model was composed of six factors (χ2 = 229.173 (df = 174, p = 0.003), CFI = 0.944, TLI = 0.933, RMSEA = 0.035, and RMSR = 0.047). The performance-based DHLI-BrA demonstrated moderate internal consistency (α = 0.57 and KR20 = 0.56) and good stability (ICC = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.76–0.92). In EFA and CFA, the best-adjusted model was composed of a single factor (χ2 = 17.901 (df = 14, p = 0.2113), CFI = 0.952, TLI = 0.927, RMSEA = 0.033, and RMSR = 0.038). IRT analyses revealed item discrimination ranging from −0.71 to 1.83 and difficulty from −1.53 to 1.02. Convergent validity of the self-reported DHLI-BrA was obtained by its correlation with the eHEALS-BrA (r = 0.45) and REALMD-20 (r = 0.19), besides the performance-based DHLI-BrA with its correlation with the NVS (r = 0.47) and REALMD-20 (r = 0.44). The DHLI-BrA demonstrated adequate psychometric properties to measure the self-reported, performance-based digital health literacy of Brazilian typically developing adolescents.
To Treat or to Extract Necrotic First Permanent Molars Between 8 and 12 Years of Age: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Vergier Valentin , Berat Pierre-Jean , Collignon Anne-Margaux , Vital Sibylle , Bonnet Anne-Laure
Published: November 2024

Background: First permanent molars (FPM) are highly susceptible to decay before the age of 15. When they are severely affected, the decision between conservation and extraction arises, particularly considering the potential for the second permanent molar (SPM) to replace the FPM. This cohort study aimed to evaluate clinical practices regarding FPM pulp necrosis treatment in children aged eight to twelve in two hospital departments in the Paris region. A second objective was to evaluate the one-year outcomes of the two therapies. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using computerized billing software to identify patients aged eight to twelve who underwent either extraction or root canal treatment (RCT). Data collected included sex, age, arch involved, number of decayed surfaces, presence of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), presence of infection, and treatment type. Results: A total of 66 patients were included, representing 61 extracted teeth and 23 RCT. Three main decision criteria were identified: presence of MIH (p < 0.005), extent of decay (p < 0.05), and SPM Nolla’s stage. A total of 48% of the patients were seen at one year. A total of 16 of the 32 extractions and five of the nine RCTs had favorable evolution (p = 1). Conclusions: The question of whether to perform RCT or extraction of necrotic FPM in children aged eight to twelve is difficult to assess. It appears that five criteria need to be considered before the decision: possibility of long-term sealed coronal reconstruction, SPM Nolla’s stage, follow-up possibilities, arch concerned, and presence of third permanent molar.
On the Cementitious Mixtures Reinforced with Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate
Authors: Coviello Cristiano Giuseppe , La Scala Armando , Sabbà Maria Francesca , Carnimeo Leonarda
Published: November 2024

The last decade was dominated by a serious problem that now affects all the planet’s natural ecosystems: the increasing growth of plastics and microplastics that are difficult to dispose of. One strategy to mitigate this problem is to close the life cycle of one of them—polyethylene terephthalate (PET)—by reusing it within the most common building materials, such as mortars and concretes. The reuse of PET waste as aggregates also allows us to limit the CO2 emissions released during the production of natural aggregates. This paper analyzes the outcomes of many studies carried out on the characteristics of cementitious mixtures reinforced with waste PET material. Many researchers have demonstrated how PET used as reinforcement of mortars and concretes can produce an increase in the mechanical strengths of the corresponding cementitious mixtures without PET. The tensile strength of this resin is higher than that of concrete; so, by combining the two materials it is possible to obtain a mixture with an overall higher tensile strength, resulting in increased flexural strength and reduced cracking. Using an effective size of PET fibers, it is possible to achieve an increase in the ductility and toughness of the cementitious mixture. Several studies reveal that PET reinforcement reduces the density with a consequent decrease in weight and structural loads, while the workability increases using spherical and smoother PET aggregates.