bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of nubbin in the development of forewing sound-producing structures in Acheta domesticus (house cricket)
Authors: Turchyn Nataliya , Popadić Aleksandar
Published: July 2024

Among insects, Orthoptera (crickets and grasshoppers) have evolved a set of highly specialized structures for acoustic communication, with males engaged in sound production and amplification (stridulation) and females in sound reception. These structures in males are located on their forewings, suggesting that some of the wing genes may have been co-opted for new roles in stridulation. As previous studies have identified nubbin (nub) as one of the key genes in the wing development network, we examined its function in the house cricket, Acheta domesticus. Our results show that nub regulates the overall size and venation of both fore- and hindwings in both sexes, consistent with its general role in wing development. Moreover, in males this gene is also involved in the development of sound resonators (primarily the harp, anal area, mirror, and chord). The distinct morphology of these structures is generated by either the activation (in the harp and anal area) or suppression (in the mirror and chord) of vein and cross-connection development in localized regions of the forewings. Finally, nub RNAi males do not stridulate, confirming that the observed changes in the morphology of resonators are functionally significant and responsible for the loss of sound production.
Supercharging distributed computing environments for high-performance data engineering
Authors: Perera Niranda , Sarker Arup Kumar , Shan Kaiying , Fetea Alex , Kamburugamuve Supun , Kanewala Thejaka Amila , Widanage Chathura , Staylor Mills , Zhong Tianle , Abeykoon Vibhatha , von Laszewski Gregor , Fox Geoffrey
Published: July 2024

The data engineering and data science community has embraced the idea of using Python and R dataframes for regular applications. Driven by the big data revolution and artificial intelligence, these frameworks are now ever more important in order to process terabytes of data. They can easily exceed the capabilities of a single machine but also demand significant developer time and effort due to their convenience and ability to manipulate data with high-level abstractions that can be optimized. Therefore it is essential to design scalable dataframe solutions. There have been multiple efforts to be integrated into the most efficient fashion to tackle this problem, the most notable being the dataframe systems developed using distributed computing environments such as Dask and Ray. Even though Dask and Ray's distributed computing features look very promising, we perceive that the Dask Dataframes and Ray Datasets still have room for optimization In this paper, we present CylonFlow, an alternative distributed dataframe execution methodology that enables state-of-the-art performance and scalability on the same Dask and Ray infrastructure (supercharging them!). To achieve this, we integrate a high-performance dataframe system Cylon, which was originally based on an entirely different execution paradigm, into Dask and Ray. Our experiments show that on a pipeline of dataframe operators, CylonFlow achieves 30 × more distributed performance than Dask Dataframes. Interestingly, it also enables superior sequential performance due to leveraging the native C++ execution of Cylon. We believe the performance of Cylon in conjunction with CylonFlow extends beyond the data engineering domain and can be used to consolidate high-performance computing and distributed computing ecosystems.
Real-world evidence study on the early use of cemiplimab in the UK: REACT-CEMI (Real World evidence of advanced CSCC treatment with cemiplimab)
Authors: Challapalli Amarnath , Stewart Grant , Shaw Heather , Davies Peter John , Lopez-Baez Juan Carlos , Ottley Edward C. , Kelly Stephen
Published: July 2024

Background

Cemiplimab was licensed in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 for the treatment of patients with locally advanced and metastatic CSCC not suitable for curative surgery or radiotherapy (advanced CSCC [aCSCC]). No UK multi-center studies have investigated the real-world experience of cemiplimab post marketing authorization in aCSCC.

Methods

This non-interventional retrospective study (10 UK centers) involved data collection from medical records of patients with aCSCC who initiated cemiplimab treatment between 2 July 2019 and 30 November 2020. The study period was a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 36 months post cemiplimab initiation. The primary objective was to describe the real-world clinical effectiveness of cemiplimab (primary outcome: overall response rate [ORR]).

Results

Of 105 patients, 70% (n=73/105) were male (median [range] age at index of 78.5 [55.4–93.2] years); most patients (63% [n=50/80]) had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score of 1 and 62% (n=63/102) had metastatic disease. The ORR within 12 months was 42% (95% confidence interval [CI] 32%–51%) and the disease control rate was 62% (n=65/105). The median (95% CI) real-world progression-free survival and overall survival from index was 8.6 (6.0–18.7) and 21.0 (14.7–25.2) months, respectively. The median (range) number of cemiplimab infusions was 11.0 (1.0–44.0). Eighty-seven percent experienced no cemiplimab treatment interruptions; 13% (n=14/105) interrupted treatment due to immune-related adverse reactions (irARs) (47% [n=9/19] of treatment interruption events). Eighty-five percent (n=89/105) of patients had discontinued cemiplimab treatment by the end of the study; where reasons for discontinuation were recorded, 20% (n=17/87) discontinued due to the completion of their 2-year treatment course. Nineteen percent (n=20/105) of patients experienced irARs.

Conclusion

Effectiveness and safety data in this study are broadly similar to previous real-world studies of cemiplimab and the EMPOWER-CSCC1 clinical trial; with our cohort representing a broader population (included immunocompromised and transplant patients). Results support the use of cemiplimab for the treatment of aCSCC in a real-world setting.
Co-expression of VP2, NS1 and NS2-Nt proteins by an MVA viral vector induces complete protection against bluetongue virus
Authors: Jiménez-Cabello Luis , Utrilla-Trigo Sergio , Calvo-Pinilla Eva , Lorenzo Gema , Illescas-Amo Miguel , Benavides Julio , Moreno Sandra , Marín-López Alejandro , Nogales Aitor , Ortego Javier
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Bluetongue (BT), caused by bluetongue virus (BTV), is an important arthropod-borne livestock disease listed by the World Organization for Animal Health. Live-attenuated and inactivated vaccines have permitted to control BT but they do not simultaneously protect against the myriad of BTV serotypes. Recently, we identified the highly conserved BTV nonstructural protein NS1 and the N-terminal region of NS2 as antigens capable of conferring multiserotype protection against BTV.

Methods

Here, we designed Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) viral vectors that expressed BTV-4 proteins VP2 or VP7 along with NS1 and NS2-Nt as well as MVAs that expressed proteins VP2, VP7 or NS1 and NS2-Nt.

Results

Immunization of IFNAR(-/-) mice with two doses of MVA-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt protected mice from BTV-4M infection by the induction of an antigen-specific T cell immune response. Despite rMVA expressing VP7 alone were not protective in the IFNAR(-/-) mouse model, inclusion of VP7 in the vaccine formulation amplified the cell-mediated response induced by NS1 and NS2-Nt. Expression of VP2 elicited protective non-cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) in immunized animals and improved the protection observed in the MVA-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt immunized mice when these three BTV antigens were co-expressed. Moreover, vaccines candidates co-expressing VP2 or VP7 along with NS1 and NS2-Nt provided multiserotype protection. We assessed protective efficacy of both vaccine candidates in sheep against virulent challenge with BTV-4M.

Discussion

Immunization with MVA-VP7-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt partially dumped viral replication and clinical disease whereas administration of MVA-VP2-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt promoted a complete protection, preventing viraemia and the pathology produced by BTV infection.
Pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata attenuata) abundance estimates in Maui Nui, Hawaiʻi reveal small population in need of monitoring
Authors: Barber-Meyer Shannon M. , Olson Grace L. , Currie Jens J.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Recent minimum population estimates are critical for effective marine mammal conservation, yet such estimates are often lacking at the stock or management level. Throughout the Main Hawaiian Islands, pantropical spotted dolphins (PSD; Stenella attenuata attenuata) are comprised of a pelagic and three island-associated stocks (O‘ahu, 4-Islands, and Hawai‘i Island). The insular stocks, in particular, face multiple anthropogenic and natural threats such as vessel impacts, fisheries interactions, marine debris, climate change, and disease. Prior to this study, no abundance estimates of the 4-Islands (i.e., the Maui Nui region) PSD stock existed that were suitable for management use and inclusion in stock assessment report calculations.

Methods

We generated annual mark-recapture abundance estimates of naturally marked adults in a POPAN-framework using photo-identification data collected from small-boat surveys during 2014–2022 in the Maui Nui region. We extrapolated these estimates to the wider population using dorsal fin mark rates.

Results and discussion

We collected data on 62 groups of PSD, throughout all months of the year, and with an average group size of 55.70 (SD = 17.31). We analyzed encounter histories of 174 distinct individuals. Annual recapture rate averaged 1.84 (SD = 1.32) with a maximum of 7. Individuals detected per year averaged 35.67 (SD = 21.16) with a maximum of 77 in 2017. Overall mark rate was 0.495 (SE = 0.010), resulting in total annual abundance estimates that averaged 154.87 (SE = 14.25) and ranged from 105 (SE = 13) in 2014 to 232 (SE = 31) in 2017. Although abundance estimates fluctuated, generally 250 animals or less used the study area each year and we found no overall evidence of a trend. Our benchmark results revealed a small population in need of monitoring given the numerous threats facing this stock, the uncertainty of their impacts, and the decreased resiliency and recovery potential of small populations to negative demographic and environmental stochastic events. Our findings, including documenting long-term site fidelity and year-round presence of PSD in Maui Nui, further signify this area as one of future research and conservation importance.
Studying the evolution of hypoxia/anoxia in Aitoliko lagoon, Greece, based on measured and modeled data
Authors: Knutsen Øyvind , Stefanakos Christos , Slagstad Dag , Ellingsen Ingrid , Zacharias Ierotheos , Biliani Irene , Berg Arve
Published: July 2024

The present work, which has been carried out in the framework of EEA project BLUE-GREENWAY, is a contribution to the study of the evolution of hypoxia/anoxia in Aitoliko lagoon, Greece. The study area suffers from anoxia which is a very important environmental problem lately mainly due to anthropogenic activities. Unpublished data from two measurement campaigns (2013–2014, 2023) have been used, and a 3D ocean model (SINMOD) has been configured for the region, that couples hydrodynamics, biochemistry and ecology. The analysis of model results includes monthly, annual and interannual variability of fields of dissolved oxygen, temperature, salinity, density, currents and wind as well as Brunt-Väisala frequency and Richardson number. Main results concerning oxygen are: a) the lagoon shows anoxic behavior at 5–7 m depth with a seasonal dependence, b) the seasonal variability in the upper water column with deeper ventilation during winter when the surface stratification is weaker than that during summer, c) anoxic water is reaching the surface of the lagoon for a short period of time.
Coral reefs at Qiziwan National Marine Park in 2023: spatial variability and their relationship with environmental factors
Authors: Zhao He , Zhang Junling , Yang Haijun , Li Yiping , Liu Xiangbo , Liu Yicheng , Zhu Wentao , Wang Aimin , Li Xiubao
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In 2023, a comprehensive survey was conducted at Qiziwan National Marine Park (QZW) to assess marine environmental variables, coral communities, and ecosystem parameters. This study aimed to evaluate the current state of coral ecosystems across different regions within the park.

Methods

The survey covered 19 sampling stations distributed among four regions: Xiaojiao Park, Zhongjiao Park, Dajiao Park, and Shayutang Village. Various marine environmental parameters were measured, and coral species were identified and recorded.

Results

A total of 67 species of reef-building corals belonging to 25 genera were identified. Dominant species included Porites lutea, Goniopora columna, Platygyra sinensis, Favites flexuosa, Galaxea fascicularis, and Acropora millepora. Coral coverage was found to be low at Xiaojiao Park, with high levels of turbidity and dissolved inorganic nitrogen, likely due to the nearby Changhua Port. Dajiao Park's sandy substrate made it unsuitable for coral survival. In contrast, Zhongjiao Park and Shayutang Village exhibited the best coral ecosystems. Redundancy analysis indicated that turbidity and substrate types were significant factors influencing coral distribution.

Discussion

The live coral coverage at Xiaojiao Park, parts of Zhongjiao Park, and Dajiao Park declined from 14.03% in 2017 to 11.73% in 2023. This decline is potentially attributed to frequent marine construction and land use changes. Anthropogenic disturbances appear to have worsened environmental conditions, undermining coral reef survival at QZW.
Causal effects of socioeconomic traits on frailty: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Huang Jian , Gui Ying , Wu Jing , Xie Yubo
Published: July 2024

Background

The relationship between socioeconomic status and frailty has been extensively investigated in the literature, but it remains unclear whether a causal relationship exists. Our goal is to evaluate the causal relationship between six socioeconomic traits and the frailty index using summary-level data for single nucleotide polymorphisms from large genome-wide association studies with individuals of European ancestry.

Methods

A two-sample MR was performed. We applied the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method for the primary estimate, with sensitivity analyses conducted using alternative MR methods to evaluate the robustness of the findings. A subsequent multivariable MR was undertaken to adjust for the effects of body mass index (BMI). Finally, the MR Steiger directionality test was performed to confirm the causal direction.

Results

The IVW MR analysis revealed significant associations between various socioeconomic factors and the frailty index. Specifically, genetically predicated age completed full time education (β = −0.477, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.634 to −0.319) and average total household income before tax (β = −0.321, 95% CI: −0.410 to −0.232) were negatively associated with the frailty index. On the other hand, genetically predicted job involves heavy manual or physical work (β = 0.298, 95% CI: 0.113 to 0.484), job involves mainly walking or standing (β = 0.179, 95% CI: 0.013 to 0.345), Townsend deprivation index at recruitment (β = 0.535, 95% CI: 0.285 to 0.785), and social isolation/loneliness (β = 1.344, 95% CI: 0.834 to 1.853) were positively associated with the frailty index. Sensitivity analysis using other MR methods and multivariable MR analysis adjusting for BMI yielded stable results. The MR Steiger directionality test confirmed the causal direction.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of socioeconomic factors in affecting frailty risk. Future research should focus on unraveling the pathways through which these socioeconomic factors exert their effects on frailty, with the ultimate goal of developing targeted strategies to mitigate the risk of frailty.
The association between dietary antioxidant quality score and uric acid related mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Shi Shuai , Fang Qiang
Published: July 2024

Aim

Antioxidants diet is beneficial for the prognosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the relationship between the Dietary Antioxidant Quality Score (DAQS), a measure of overall quality on antioxidant diet, and hyperuricemia related mortality is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the DAQS and hyperuricemia mortality in CKD patients.

Methods

In this cohort study, data were collected in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2009 to 2018. The DAQS was calculated based on the six dietary antioxidants. Mortality status were determined by NHANES-linked National Death Index public access files through December 31, 2019. Weighted Cox proportional hazard models were used to investigate the association between the DAQS and hyperuricemia related mortality.

Results

A total of 3,684 participants were included. During the median follow-up of 63.83 months, 820 deaths were recorded. The results showed that higher dietary antioxidants intake associated with lower hyperuricemia related mortality risk among CKD patients (HR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.07 to 1.54). In subgroup analyses, the association of antioxidants intake and hyperuricemia related mortality risk remained exist in groups of aged ≥65 years (HR = 1.23, 95%CI: 1.01 to 1.52), with hypertension (HR = 1.26, 95%CI: 1.02 to 1.55), with dyslipidemia (HR = 1.30, 95%CI: 1.07 to 1.58), with CVD (HR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.03 to 1.67), and diabetes (HR = 1.62, 95%CI: 1.24 to 2.12).

Conclusion

Higher antioxidants intake associated with lower odds of hyperuricemia related mortality in CKD patients. Future interventional studies are needed to elucidate the beneficial effect of antioxidants diets.
High-dose-rate brachytherapy in uterine cervix carcinoma: a comparison of dosimetry and clinical outcomes among three fractionation schedules
Authors: Wu Haiyan , He Yanan , Chen Duke , Liu Mei , Zhao Xiujuan
Published: July 2024

Background

To assess the differences among three dose-fractionation schedules of image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) by comparing the dosimetry and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Forty-five patients with CSCC who underwent chemoradiotherapy and IGABT were retrospectively enrolled and divided into three groups based on their dose-fractionation schedules of brachytherapy as: Group-5.5 (5.5 Gy × 6 fractions), Group-6.0 (6.0 Gy × 5 fractions), and Group-7.0 (7.0 Gy × 4 fractions). The analyzed dose-volume histogram parameters included D90% and D98% of the high-risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV), D90% and D98% of intermediate-risk clinical target volume (IR-CTV), and D0.1cc and D2cc of the organs-at-risk (OARs, namely the bladder, rectum, sigmoid and small intestine). Furthermore, the therapeutic efficacy and late toxicities were also compared among the three groups.

Results

The doses of HR-CTV and IR-CTV in Group-5.5 were found to be the highest among the three groups, followed by those in Group-6.0. Significant differences were found for the doses of HR-CTV between Group-5.5 and the other groups. There were no significant differences in the bladder, sigmoid and small intestine dose among the three groups. However, Group-6.0 yielded the lowest rectum received doses, with a significant difference in D0.1cc being detected between Group-6.0 and Group-5.5. The median follow-up time was 30.08 months [range, 6.57–46.3]. The numbers of patients with complete response in Group-5.5, Group-6.0 and Group-7.0 were 13, 14 and 14, respectively (P > 0.05). In regard to the toxicitiy, the incidence of radiation cystitis and proctitis in Group-6.0 was lower than that in Group-5.5 and Group-7.0 (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The dose-fractionation schedule of 6.0 Gy × 5 fractions provided the most beneficial effects with relatively low OARs doses, suggesting that this dose-fractionation schedule should be prioritized in the clinical application of brachytherapy in cervical cancer.
Risk factors of osimertinib-related cardiotoxicity in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Yunlong , Deng Xuan , Qiu Qinggui , Wan Mengchao
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the risk factors associated with cardiotoxicity in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with osimertinib.

Methods

A total of 268 patients with NSCLC treated with osimertinib in our hospital from June 2019 to December 2023 were selected to observe the occurrence of cardiotoxicity and were divided into cardiotoxicity group and non-cardiotoxicity group. The differences in age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking, alcohol consumption, tumor stage, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, antiangiogenic drugs, and osimertinib treatment time were recorded and analyzed. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors for cardiotoxicity in patients with non-small cell lung cancer caused by osimertinib treatment.

Results

Among the 268 patients with NSCLC treated with osimertinib, 58 patients developed cardiotoxicity, and the incidence of cardiotoxicity was 21.64%. There were statistically significant differences between the cardiotoxicity group and the non-cardiotoxicity group in terms of smoking history, hyperlipidemia history, combined chemotherapy, and combined radiotherapy (P < 0.05). Further analysis showed that patients with a smoking history were at increased risk of cardiotoxicity compared with non-smoking patients (OR = 2.569, 95% CI = 1.398–6.523). Patients with hyperlipidemia were at increased risk of cardiotoxicity compared with those without hyperlipidemia (OR = 3.412, 95% CI = 2.539–7.628). Patients with chemotherapy were at increased risk of cardiotoxicity compared with those without combination chemotherapy (OR = 2.018, 95% CI = 1.426–4.517). Patients undergoing radiotherapy to the left chest were at increased risk of cardiotoxicity compared with those without combined radiotherapy (OR = 1.629, 95% CI = 1.273–4.206).

Conclusion

The incidence of cardiotoxicity in patients with NSCLC is high due to osimertinib treatment. A history of smoking, hyperlipidemia, combination chemotherapy, and radiotherapy to the left chest are independent risk factors for cardiotoxicity in patients with NSCLC treated with osimertinib.
Interactive and passive mixed reality distraction: effects on cold pressor pain in adults
Authors: Murray Jamie G. , Caes Line
Published: July 2024

While interactive distractors are predicted to be more effective in reducing acute pain than passive distractors, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Previous work using Virtual-Reality (VR) has suggested that interactive distraction may be enhanced by increasing the person's sense of immersion. Despite the possible utility of immersive VR in reducing pain, some people report being disoriented and motion sick, and it doesn't allow for interactions with environment (e.g., following instructions from medical staff). Here, we explore the role of the immersion in the effectiveness of interactive distraction by employing an alternative technology, a Mixed-Reality (MR) headset that limits disorientation by projecting virtual objects into the real world. Healthy volunteers (18–35 years) participated in two experiments employing either a between (N = 84) or a within-subject (N = 42) design to compare Interactive and Passive distraction tasks presented via MR or a standard computer display. For both experiments, a cold-pressor task was used to elicit pain, with pain tolerance and pain perception being recorded. Analysis revealed that whilst interactive distraction was more effective in reducing pain perception and increasing pain tolerance than passive distraction, the interpretation of results was sensitive to experimental design. Comparison of devices did not reveal significant differences in pain tolerance or pain intensity, while pain unpleasantness was significantly reduced during the MR task using a within-subject design. Our findings add to existing VR studies reporting little additional analgesic benefit of new, immersive technologies compared to traditional computers, but underscores the important impact the choice of experimental design can have on the interpretation of results.
Comparing the adverse effects of ketamine and esketamine between genders using FAERS data
Authors: Yang Xinxia , Chen Dongdong
Published: July 2024

Background

Ketamine was developed as an anesthetic. Esketamine is the isolated S-enantiomer of racemic ketamine. They provide new avenues for the treatment of depression, especially treatment-resistant depression. Considering differences in the pharmacokinetics and hormonal status of ketamine in patients of different genders, sex-based differences in esketamine adverse drug events (ADE) may also be observed. This study presents data mining and safety analysis of adverse events of ketamine and esketamine between genders, promoting the individualization of clinical practice.

Methods

Adverse drug reactions to ketamine and esketamine reported between the first quarter of 2004 and the second quarter of 2023 in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) were extracted. Thereafter, the reporting odds ratio (ROR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated.

Results

A total of 2907 female reports and 1634 male reports on esketamine were included in the analysis. ROR mining showed that completed suicide, decreased therapeutic product effects, urinary retention, and hypertension were common in men. Additionally, 552 female and 653 male ketamine reports were recorded. ROR mining revealed that toxicity to various agents, bradycardia, cystitis and agitation, were more likely to occur in men, whereas women were more likely to develop suicidal ideation, increased transaminase levels, sclerosing cholangitis, and sterile pyuria.

Conclusion

The adverse events of esketamine and ketamine differ across genders, which should be considered in clinical practice to provide individualized treatment.
Transformation regulation of the paraxial finite Airy–Gaussian beam array propagating through uniaxial electro-optic crystals
Authors: Jin Long , Xiang Yang
Published: July 2024

The transformation regulation of the radial finite Airy–Gaussian beam array (FAiGBA) in uniaxial crystals orthogonal to the optical axis has been explored analytically and numerically under the paraxial approximation. The analytical evolution solution of this beam array in the x- and y-directions has been derived, respectively. The intensity distribution and side view of FAiGBA propagating in three types of uniaxial crystals have been demonstrated in several instances. Furthermore, particular attention has been devoted to the linear effect when this beam array transmits through the electro-optic crystal. The influence of non-paraxial longitudinal component and temperature on FAiGBA evolution characteristics has also been examined to verify the validity of the paraxial mechanism of this beam array propagating in uniaxial crystals. It is anticipated that these research findings will contribute to the advancement of FAiGBA applications in micro- and nano-control, optical fiber communication, optical trapping, and manipulation fields.
Blood shear stress during the cardiac cycle and endothelial cell orientation and polarity in the carotid artery of male and female mice
Authors: Nicolas Nabil , de Tilly Alexandre , Roux Etienne
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Blood flow produces fluid shear stress (SS), a frictional force parallel to the blood flow, on the endothelial cell (EC) layer of the lumen of the vessels. ECs themselves are sensitive to this frictional force in terms of directionality and intensity. The aim of this study was to determine the physiological shear stress value during the cardiac cycle and EC polarity and orientation from blood flow in healthy male and female mouse carotid artery.

Methods: Experimentation is done on anesthetized male and female 8-week-old C5BL/6J mice. In vivo measurements of maximum blood velocity and vessel diameter in diastole and systole were performed on the right common carotid artery by Doppler ultrasound imaging. Blood viscosity (total and plasmatic) and hematocrit were determined on blood samples. For SS calculation, we developed a new method assuming heterogenous blood flow, i.e., a red cell central plug flow surrounded by a peripheral plasma sheath flow, and computing SS from vessel diameter and hemodynamical measurements (maximal blood velocity, hematocrit and plasmatic viscosity).

Results: Results were compared with the classical method assuming a homogenous blood flow with constant apparent total blood viscosity. EC polarity and orientation were determined ex vivo on the carotid endothelium by confocal imaging after labeling of the EC nucleus and Golgi apparatus. Diastolic and systolic SS were 6 ± 2.5 Pa and 30 ± 6.5 Pa, respectively. Total blood and plasmatic viscosity was 4 ± 0.5 cP and 1.27 cP, respectively. ECs were polarized and significantly oriented against blood flow. No sex difference was identified.
Effects of aquatic and land high intensity interval training on hemodynamics and vascular function of middle-aged men
Authors: Xin Chenxi , Fu Jiahao , Zhou Zhihui , Zhou Yujiao , He Hui
Published: July 2024

Objective: To investigate the effects of 8-week aquatic and land high intensity interval training (HIIT) on hemodynamics and vascular function in middle-aged men.

Methods: Thirty middle-aged men with low physical activity were selected and divided into 15 men (52.43 ± 4.11) in aquatic group and 15 men (52.74 ± 5.62) in land group by random number table. They performed HIIT exercise in aquatic and land 3 times a week for 8 weeks. Pre-test, inter-test and post-test respectively measure hemodynamics and blood vessel function.

Results: (1) Body composition: After 8 weeks of exercise, weight, body mass index (BMI) and body fat rate (BF) were lower than before exercise (aquatic group: p < 0.01, land group: p < 0.05). The improvement of BF in the aquatic group was better than that in the land group (p < 0.05); (2) Cardiac function: After 8 weeks of exercise, stroke volume (SV), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (EDV), cardiac output (CO), and left ventricular fractional shortening (FS), were higher than before exercise (aquatic group: p < 0.01, land group: p < 0.05), heart rate (HR) and left ventricular end-systolic volume (ESV) were lower than before exercise (aquatic group: p < 0.01, land group: p < 0.05). The improvement of SV, HR, EDV, ESV, CO and FS in the aquatic group was better than that in the land group (p < 0.05); (3) Hemodynamics: After 8 weeks of exercise, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were lower than before exercise (aquatic group: p < 0.01, land group: p < 0.05), wall shear stress (WSS) and peak systolic velocity (PSV) were higher than before exercise (aquatic group: p < 0.01, land group: p < 0.05). The improvement of SBP, WSS and PSV in the aquatic group was better than that in the land group (p < 0.05); (4) Vascular function: basal diameter and brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) level in aquatic group and land group was higher than before exercise, pulse wave velocity (PWV) level was lower than before exercise (aquatic and land group: p < 0.05). The improvement of FMD in the aquatic group was better than that in the land group.

Conclusion: The body composition, hemodynamics and vascular function of middle-aged men were improved by 8-week aquatic and land HIIT. Aquatic HIIT has better effect on body fat rate, hemodynamics and vascular endothelial function in middle-aged men due to the effect of aquatic pressure and temperature.
Resistance training modalities: comparative analysis of effects on physical fitness, isokinetic muscle functions, and core muscle biomechanics
Authors: Liu Peng , Yuan Han , Lu YunHang , Gao Zeng
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of varied resistance training modalities on physical fitness components, body composition, maximal strength assessed by one-repetition maximum (1RM), isokinetic muscle functions of the shoulder and knee joints, and biomechanical properties of core muscles.

Methods

Forty participants were randomly assigned to four groups: control group (CG, n = 10), compound set training group (CSG, n = 10), pyramid set training group (PSG, n = 10), and superset training group (SSG, n = 10). Excluding the CG, the other three groups underwent an 8-week resistance training program, three sessions per week, at 60%–80% of 1RM intensity for 60–90 min per session. Assessments included body composition, physical fitness components, 1RM, isokinetic muscle functions, and biomechanical properties (muscle frequency, stiffness, etc.) of the rectus abdominis and external oblique muscles.

Results

The PSG demonstrated the most significant improvement in relative peak torque during isokinetic testing of the shoulder and knee joints. Compared to the CG, all exercise groups exhibited positive effects on back strength, sprint performance, 1RM, and core muscle biomechanics. Notably, the PSG showed superior enhancement in external oblique stiffness. However, no significant differences were observed among the exercise groups for rectus abdominis biomechanical properties.

Discussion

Structured resistance training effectively improved maximal strength, functional performance, and core muscle biomechanics. The pyramidal training modality conferred specific benefits for isokinetic muscle functions and external oblique stiffness, suggesting its efficacy in enhancing force production capabilities and core stability.
Transcriptome profiling reveals key regulatory factors and metabolic pathways associated with curd formation and development in broccoli
Authors: Zhu Yinxia , Liu Ce , Zhao Mengyao , Duan Yuxuan , Xie Jingjing , Wang Chunguo
Published: July 2024

Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable, has a unique indeterminate inflorescence structure known as curds. It is the main edible organ of broccoli and has a rich nutritional value and health benefits. However, the formation and development mechanism of the curd is still not well understood. In the present study, the shoot apical meristem (SAM) stage and three different development stages of curd (formation stage (FS), expansion stage (ES), and maturation stage (MS)) were identified and subjected to transcriptome sequencing to uncover the potential genes and regulatory networks involved in curd formation and development. The results indicated that the genes associated with the development of SAM such as BolAP1A, BolAP1C, BolCAL, and BolAGL6 play an important role in the abnormal differentiation of the curd apical buds. The genes, BolFRI, BolbHLH89, BolKAN4, BolAGL12, and BolAGL24, displayed significantly differential expression patterns in curd development may function in the regulation of the transition from inflorescence meristem (IM) to floral meristem (FM). Moreover, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) indicate that phytohormones, such as auxin (AUX), gibberellins (GA), and abscisic acid (ABA) also play an important role in SAM proliferation and the transition from SAM to IM. In addition, the genes regulating photosynthetic reaction (BolLHCA1, BolLHCB1, BolPsbO, etc.) have a key involvement in the differentiation of secondary IMs during curd expansion. The genes associated with the metabolism of starch and sucrose (e.g., BolSPS4, BolBAM4) were significantly upregulated at the MS should contribute to the maturation of the curd. These findings provide new insights into the potential key regulatory factors and metabolic pathways involved in the formation and development of broccoli curds.
Development of a deep-learning phenotyping tool for analyzing image-based strawberry phenotypes
Authors: Ndikumana Jean Nepo , Lee Unseok , Yoo Ji Hye , Yeboah Samuel , Park Soo Hyun , Lee Taek Sung , Yeoung Young Rog , Kim Hyoung Seok
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In strawberry farming, phenotypic traits (such as crown diameter, petiole length, plant height, flower, leaf, and fruit size) measurement is essential as it serves as a decision-making tool for plant monitoring and management. To date, strawberry plant phenotyping has relied on traditional approaches. In this study, an image-based Strawberry Phenotyping Tool (SPT) was developed using two deep-learning (DL) architectures, namely “YOLOv4” and “U-net” integrated into a single system. We aimed to create the most suitable DL-based tool with enhanced robustness to facilitate digital strawberry plant phenotyping directly at the natural scene or indirectly using captured and stored images.

Methods

Our SPT was developed primarily through two steps (subsequently called versions) using image data with different backgrounds captured with simple smartphone cameras. The two versions (V1 and V2) were developed using the same DL networks but differed by the amount of image data and annotation method used during their development. For V1, 7,116 images were annotated using the single-target non-labeling method, whereas for V2, 7,850 images were annotated using the multitarget labeling method.

Results

The results of the held-out dataset revealed that the developed SPT facilitates strawberry phenotype measurements. By increasing the dataset size combined with multitarget labeling annotation, the detection accuracy of our system changed from 60.24% in V1 to 82.28% in V2. During the validation process, the system was evaluated using 70 images per phenotype and their corresponding actual values. The correlation coefficients and detection frequencies were higher for V2 than for V1, confirming the superiority of V2. Furthermore, an image-based regression model was developed to predict the fresh weight of strawberries based on the fruit size (R2 = 0.92).

Discussion

The results demonstrate the efficiency of our system in recognizing the aforementioned six strawberry phenotypic traits regardless of the complex scenario of the environment of the strawberry plant. This tool could help farmers and researchers make accurate and efficient decisions related to strawberry plant management, possibly causing increased productivity and yield potential.
Internalizing psychological symptoms in children and adolescents with fructose malabsorption
Authors: Maurer Annabel , Lieb Adrian , Bongard Stephan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Due to an inhibited tryptophan resorption, patients with fructose malabsorption are expected to experience decreased serotonin synthesis. A deficiency of serotonin may cause internalizing mental disorders like depression and anxiety, and a fructose-oriented eating behavior may affect these symptoms.

Methods

The parents of 24 children and adolescents with a currently diagnosed fructose malabsorption aged 4;00–13;02 years (M = 8.10, SD = 2.05), the parents of 12 patients with a currently confirmed combination of fructose and lactose malabsorption aged 4;00–12;11 years (M = 8.07, SD = 2.11) and the parents of a comparative sample of 19 healthy participants aged 5;00 to 17;07 years (M = 9.06, SD = 3.04) were interviewed. The interviews were conducted using a screening questionnaire of the German “Diagnostic System of Mental Disorders in children and adolescents based on the ICD-10 and DSM-5 DISYPS-III” and a self-developed questionnaire on eating, leisure and sleeping behavior.

Results

On standardized scales parents of children with fructose malabsorption reported higher levels of Depression compared to symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) and Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorders (ODD/CD). Compared to healthy controls, for patients with fructose malabsorption, higher symptom levels of Depression and Anxiety were reported. With regard to eating behavior, within the group with a combination of fructose and lactose malabsorption, a strong positive association between an increased fruit sugar consumption and higher levels of Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders/Tics were found.

Discussion

These results suggest a close association between fructose malabsorption and elevated internalizing psychological symptoms in children and adolescents.

Clinical trial registration:https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00031047, DRKS-ID [DRKS00031047].
PERMA-Profiler for adolescents: validity evidence based on internal structure and related constructs
Authors: Fernandes Iorhana , Zanini Daniela Sacramento , Peixoto Evandro Morais
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The PERMA model of well-being has gained prominence in the study of well-being by the Positive Psychology movement. However, the model has been little studied regarding its applicability in different populations, such as adolescents. This study sought to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PERMA-Profiler instrument for Brazilian adolescents, as well as the measurement invariance for different age groups and gender, and investigate the relation with external variables.

Methods

Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis were used to test the internal structure and invariance of the PERMA-Profiler. Reliability was determined with McDonald’s Omega and composite reliability. A total of 1,197 adolescents between 11 and 19 years old from different regions of Brazil participated.

Results

The results of the confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the five correlated factors model was the most appropriate, presenting good factor loadings and adequate reliability. The scale proved to be invariant for adolescents of different age groups and gender. Correlations with associated variables were significant and moderate to strong, showing positive relations between positive emotions and well-being, and negative relations with negative affects and depressive and anxiety symptoms.

Discussion

These results contribute to the understanding of well-being in adolescence and highlight the importance of promoting different components of well-being for adolescents’ mental health.
Effects of mindfulness-based interventions on cognition in people with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Komar Alyssa , Dickson Kirsty , Alavinia Mohammad , Bruno Tania , Bayley Mark , Feinstein Anthony , Scandiffio Jillian , Simpson Robert
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cognitive impairment affects up to 65% of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), undermining functional independence and quality of life. The objective of this study is to synthesize existing randomized controlled trial (RCT) evidence on the effects of Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on cognitive function in PwMS.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify RCTs assessing MBIs effects on cognitive functioning in PwMS. Using pre-defined criteria, two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and extracted data from included studies. Meta-analysis was performed, where possible, using a random effects model. Narrative synthesis was undertaken. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidance was followed. PROSPERO_ID:(CRD42021286429).

Results

Twelve eligible RCTs were identified, n=700 PwMS. MBIs included both standardized and tailored interventions, in-person and virtually. A variety of measures of cognitive functioning were reported. Five studies (n=254 PwMS) were included in meta-analysis; pooled results suggested MBIs effectively improved scores on the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT)-2 (SMD=0.38; 95% CI 0.06-0.71; I2 63%; p=0.02), whereas improvements were of borderline significance on the PASAT-3 (SMD=0.32; 95% CI -0.01-0.64; I2 65%; p=0.06), and, although trending to positive, were statistically insignificant on the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire (SMD=0.34; 95 CI -0.05-0.74; I2 0%; p=0.09) and Symbol Digits Modality Test (SMD=0.25; 95% CI -0.15-0.66; I2 0%; p=0.21).

Conclusion

Preliminary findings in meta-analysis are inconsistent but suggest potential benefits from MBI training on cognitive functioning in PwMS. High quality RCTs are necessary to test more definitively the impact of MBIs on cognitive functioning in PwMS.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42021286429.
Case report: Rare variants in the MTRR gene, 66GG and 524TT cause hyperhomocysteinemia and folic acid deficiency linked to schizophrenia
Authors: Huang Chih-Chia
Published: July 2024

We present an adult patient with schizophrenia who was later found to have hyperhomocysteinemia, a condition that increases the risk of several diseases, due to a deficiency in folic acid. Although folic acid supplementation quickly normalized the hyperhomocysteinemia and folic acid levels, it did not significantly improve the overall mental and cognitive health. Genotype analysis was performed and the patient was found to have two pathogenic variants in the MTRR gene, 66GG and 524TT, which encodes for methionine synthase reductase (MSR), an enzyme crucial for homocysteine metabolism. The results can shed light on the reasons behind the patient’s hyperhomocysteinemia and folic acid deficiency. Hyperhomocysteinemia confers an increased risk of several diseases. Indeed, the patient has neurodevelopment and cardiovascular health problems for decades. Given the rarity of the condition and the nonspecific nature of the symptoms, the detection of hyperhomocysteinemia or MSR deficiency can often be delayed or overlooked. Considering the potential irreversible and detrimental consequences of prolonged hyperhomocysteinemia and folic acid deficiency that our patient is likely experiencing, we suggest that clinicians be vigilant for associated signs when they encounter adolescents exhibiting psychotic symptoms, especially those with additional physical symptoms and a history of resistance to treatment.