bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroprotective effects of resistance physical exercise on the APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Campos Henrique Correia , Ribeiro Deidiane Elisa , Hashiguchi Debora , Glaser Talita , Milanis Milena da Silva , Gimenes Christiane , Suchecki Deborah , Arida Ricardo Mario , Ulrich Henning , Monteiro Longo Beatriz
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Physical exercise has beneficial effects by providing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory responses to AD. Most studies, however, have been conducted with aerobic exercises, and few have investigated the effects of other modalities that also show positive effects on AD, such as resistance exercise (RE). In addition to its benefits in developing muscle strength, balance and muscular endurance favoring improvements in the quality of life of the elderly, RE reduces amyloid load and local inflammation, promotes memory and cognitive improvements, and protects the cortex and hippocampus from the degeneration that occurs in AD. Similar to AD patients, double-transgenic APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) mice exhibit Αβ plaques in the cortex and hippocampus, hyperlocomotion, memory deficits, and exacerbated inflammatory response. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 4 weeks of RE intermittent training on the prevention and recovery from these AD-related neuropathological conditions in APP/PS1 mice.

Methods

For this purpose, 6-7-month-old male APP/PS1 transgenic mice and their littermates, negative for the mutations (CTRL), were distributed into three groups: CTRL, APP/PS1, APP/PS1+RE. RE training lasted four weeks and, at the end of the program, the animals were tested in the open field test for locomotor activity and in the object recognition test for recognition memory evaluation. The brains were collected for immunohistochemical analysis of Aβ plaques and microglia, and blood was collected for plasma corticosterone by ELISA assay.

Results

APP/PS1 transgenic sedentary mice showed increased hippocampal Aβ plaques and higher plasma corticosterone levels, as well as hyperlocomotion and reduced central crossings in the open field test, compared to APP/PS1 exercised and control animals. The intermittent program of RE was able to recover the behavioral, corticosterone and Aβ alterations to the CTRL levels. In addition, the RE protocol increased the number of microglial cells in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice. Despite these alterations, no memory impairment was observed in APP/PS1 mice in the novel object recognition test.

Discussion

Altogether, the present results suggest that RE plays a role in alleviating AD symptoms, and highlight the beneficial effects of RE training as a complementary treatment for AD.
Opioids, sleep, analgesia and respiratory depression: Their convergence on Mu (μ)-opioid receptors in the parabrachial area
Authors: Lynch Nicole , Lima Janayna D. , Spinieli Richard L. , Kaur Satvinder
Published: April 2023

Opioids provide analgesia, as well as modulate sleep and respiration, all by possibly acting on the μ-opioid receptors (MOR). MOR’s are ubiquitously present throughout the brain, posing a challenge for understanding the precise anatomical substrates that mediate opioid induced respiratory depression (OIRD) that ultimately kills most users. Sleep is a major modulator not only of pain perception, but also for changing the efficacy of opioids as analgesics. Therefore, sleep disturbances are major risk factors for developing opioid overuse, withdrawal, poor treatment response for pain, and addiction relapse. Despite challenges to resolve the neural substrates of respiratory malfunctions during opioid overdose, two main areas, the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) in the medulla and the parabrachial (PB) complex have been implicated in regulating respiratory depression. More recent studies suggest that it is mediation by the PB that causes OIRD. The PB also act as a major node in the upper brain stem that not only receives input from the chemosensory areas in medulla, but also receives nociceptive information from spinal cord. We have previously shown that the PB neurons play an important role in mediating arousal from sleep in response to hypercapnia by its projections to the forebrain arousal centers, and it may also act as a major relay for the pain stimuli. However, due to heterogeneity of cells in the PB, their precise roles in regulating, sleep, analgesia, and respiratory depression, needs addressing. This review sheds light on interactions between sleep and pain, along with dissecting the elements that adversely affects respiration.
Advances toward precision therapeutics for developmental and epileptic encephalopathies
Authors: Bertocchi Ilaria , Cambiaghi Marco , Hasan Mazahir T.
Published: April 2023

Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies are childhood syndromes of severe epilepsy associated with cognitive and behavioral disorders. Of note, epileptic seizures represent only a part, although substantial, of the clinical spectrum. Whether the epileptiform activity per se accounts for developmental and intellectual disabilities is still unclear. In a few cases, seizures can be alleviated by antiseizure medication (ASM). However, the major comorbid features associated remain unsolved, including psychiatric disorders such as autism-like and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder-like behavior. Not surprisingly, the number of genes known to be involved is continuously growing, and genetically engineered rodent models are valuable tools for investigating the impact of gene mutations on local and distributed brain circuits. Despite the inconsistencies and problems arising in the generation and validation of the different preclinical models, those are unique and precious tools to identify new molecular targets, and essential to provide prospects for effective therapeutics.
The anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation are mediated by cytokines: Evidence from a mouse model of inflammation
Authors: Shamloo Shirin , Defensor Erwin , Ciari Peter , Ogawa Gaku , Vidano Laura , Lin Jennifer S. , Fortkort John A. , Shamloo Mehrdad , Barron Annelise E.
Published: April 2023

There is an urgent need for therapeutic approaches that can prevent or limit neuroinflammatory processes and prevent neuronal degeneration. Photobiomodulation (PBM), the therapeutic use of specific wavelengths of light, is a safe approach shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. The current study was aimed at evaluating the effects of PBM on LPS-induced peripheral and central inflammation in mice to assess its potential as an anti-inflammatory treatment. Daily, 30-min treatment of mice with red/NIR light (RL) or RL with a 40 Hz gamma frequency flicker for 10 days prior to LPS challenge showed anti-inflammatory effects in the brain and systemically. PBM downregulated LPS induction of key proinflammatory cytokines associated with inflammasome activation, IL-1β and IL-18, and upregulated the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10. RL provided robust anti-inflammatory effects, and the addition of gamma flicker potentiated these effects. Overall, these results demonstrate the potential of PBM as an anti-inflammatory treatment that acts through cytokine expression modulation.
Knowledgeability about organic food consumption and the factors behind it
Authors: Barua Sukanya , Satyapriya  , Kumar Rajeev , Sangeetha V. , Muralikrishan L. , Wason Monika
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The popularity of organic food is in increasing trend due to the increased existence of synthetic food worldwide. Hence it is very important to know the knowledge level of city dwellers regarding various aspects of organic food and factors associated with their awareness level.

Objectives

The primary objective of this research study is to develop a standardized knowledge test to assess the knowledge level of respondents regarding organic food and find out the factors behind elevated knowledge levels.

Methods

A standardized knowledge test was developed comprising 26 knowledge items and pilot tested on 42 individuals. Difficulty index, discrimination index and point biserial correlation coefficient were calculated; only 21 knowledge statements were selected out of 26. The reliability coefficient and validity were checked and found satisfactory. The final knowledge test containing 21 knowledge statements was administered to 1050 respondents from various locations of the National Capital Region (NCR)-Delhi, India. After getting the knowledge score from each individual, it was classified as very low, low, medium, high and very high knowledge level. For determining factors contributing towards enhanced knowledge level, the correlation coefficient was calculated between independent socio-economic variables of each individual and their corresponding knowledge score. Regression analysis was also performed and developed a model to depict a relationship between the dependent variable i.e. knowledge level and independent variables.

Results

Standardized knowledge test depicted that a major portion of respondents (62.0%) possessed very low, low and medium levels of knowledge, whereas 23.5 and 14.5% of respondents had high and very high levels of knowledge regarding organic food. Independent variables like gender, education, family size, family income, internet, mass media exposure and social participation had a positive relationship with the knowledge level of respondents. The results of regression analysis show that education (X2), total annual income (X3), gender (X6), participation in various organizations like the club, societies, etc. (X8), health consciousness of individual (X11), perception of organic food (X13); could explain the major share of ~62.1% of the variation in dependent variable i.e. knowledge level.

Conclusion

The developed standardized knowledge test for the present study was found valid and appropriate research tool for evaluating the knowledge level of urban citizens regarding organic food. The majority of respondents had a positive attitude towards organic food but possessed low to medium knowledge levels regarding organic food. Occasional awareness campaigns and capacity-building programs regarding various aspects of organic food in educational institutes, residential societies and through mass media can be beneficial to society.
Nutrient recovery in cultured meat systems: Impacts on cost and sustainability metrics
Authors: Myers Gabrielle M. , Jaros Kate A. , Andersen Daniel S. , Raman D. Raj
Published: April 2023

A growing global meat demand requires a decrease in the environmental impacts of meat production. Cultured meat (CM) can potentially address multiple challenges facing animal agriculture, including those related to animal welfare and environmental impacts, but existing cost analyses suggest it is hard for CM to match the relatively low costs of conventionally produced meat. This study analyzes literature reports to contextualize CM’s protein and calorie use efficiencies, comparing CM to animal meat products’ feed conversion ratios, areal productivities, and nitrogen management. Our analyses show that CM has greater protein and energy areal productivities than conventional meat products, and that waste nitrogen from spent media is critical to CM surpassing the nitrogen use efficiency of meat produced in swine and broiler land-applied manure systems. The CM nutrient management costs, arising from wastewater treatment and land application, are estimated to be more expensive than in conventional meat production. Overall, this study demonstrates that nitrogen management will be a key aspect of sustainability in CM production, as it is in conventional meat systems.
Epigenetic MMR defect identifies a risk group not accounted for through traditional risk stratification algorithms in endometrial cancer
Authors: Riedinger Courtney J. , Brown Morgan , Haight Paulina J. , Backes Floor J. , Cohn David E. , Goodfellow Paul J. , Cosgrove Casey M.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

We sought to evaluate the contribution of mismatch repair (MMR) status to traditional risk stratification algorithms used to predict nodal involvement and recurrence in a large single-institution cohort.

Methods

Endometrioid endometrial cancer (EC) cases from 2014-2020 were evaluated. MMR immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed universally. Uterine factors assessed in the Mayo criteria were used to retrospectively classify patients as low or high risk for lymphatic spread. Patients were classified according to risk for recurrence using GOG 99 and PORTEC criteria. Associations were evaluated using chi-square and t-tests and contributing factors assessed using logistic regression models.

Results

1,514 endometrioid EC were evaluated; 392 (25.9%) were MMR (MMR) deficient of which 80.4% of MMR defects were associated with epigenetic silencing of MLH1. Epigenetic MMR defects were significantly more likely to be high risk for lymph node (LN) metastasis based on Mayo criteria (74.9% vs 60.6%, p=<0.001) and with the presence of LN metastasis (20.3 vs 10.5%, p=0.003) compared to MMR proficient tumors. Tumors with epigenetic MMR defects were significantly more likely to be classified as high or high intermediate risk using GOG99 and PORTEC criteria. Furthermore, cases with epigenetic MMR defects classified as low or low intermediate risk were significantly more likely to recur (GOG99 p=0.013; PORTEC p=0.008) and independently associated with worse disease-free survival (DFS). MMR status was found to be independently associated with worse DFS (HR 1.90; 95% CI 1.34-2.70; p=0.003) but not overall survival.

Conclusion

While MMR deficient EC has been associated with poor prognostic features in prior reports; we demonstrate that only epigenetic MMR defects have poorer outcomes. Epigenetic MMR defect were independently associated with lymph node metastasis after controlling for risk criteria. Epigenetic MMR deficiency was found to be an independent predictor of recurrence beyond the factors considered in traditional risk stratification algorithms. Traditional uterine-based risk stratification algorithms may not fully reflect the risk for recurrence in MMR deficient tumors. Consideration should be given to implementing MMR status and MLH1 hypermethylation alongside traditional risk stratification algorithms. Performing MMR IHC on preoperative pathologic specimens may aid in risk stratification and patient counseling.
A novel image integration technology mapping system significantly reduces radiation exposure during ablation for a wide spectrum of tachyarrhythmias in children
Authors: He Jiang , Yi Zhang , Meiting Li , Huiming Zhou , Jinhao Li , Danlei Chen , Xiaomei Li
Published: April 2023

Objective

Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) has evolved into an effective and safe technique for the treatment of tachyarrhythmia in children. Concerns about children and involved medical staff being exposed to radiation during the procedure should not be ignored. “Fluoroscopy integrated 3D mapping”, a new 3D non-fluoroscopic navigation system software (CARTO Univu Module) could reduce fluoroscopy during the procedure. However, there are few studies about the use of this new technology on children. In the present study, we analyzed the impact of the CARTO Univu on procedural safety and fluoroscopy in a wide spectrum of tachyarrhythmias as compared with CARTO3 alone.

Methods

The data of children with tachyarrhythmias who underwent RFCA from June 2018 to December 2021 were collected. The CARTO Univu was used for mapping and ablation in 200 cases (C3U group) [boys/girls (105/95), mean age (6.8 ± 3.7 years), mean body weight (29.4 ± 7.9 kg)], and the CARTO3 was used in 200 cases as the control group (C3 group) [male/female (103/97), mean age (7.2 ± 3.9 years), mean body weight (32.3 ± 19.0 kg)]. The arrhythmias were atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (AVRT, n = 78), atrioventricular node reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT, n = 35), typical atrial flutter (AFL, n = 12), atrial tachycardia (AT, n = 20) and ventricular arrhythmias [VAs, premature ventricular complexes or ventricular tachycardia, n = 55].

Results

① There was no significant difference in the acute success rate, recurrence rate, and complication rate between the C3 and C3U groups [(94.5% vs. 95.0%); (6.3% vs. 5.3%); and (2.0% vs. 1.5%); P > 0.05]. ② The CARTO Univu reduced radiation exposure: fluoroscopy time: AVRT C3: 8.5 ± 7.2 min vs. C3U: 4.5 ± 2.9 min, P < 0.05; AVNRT C3: 10.7 ± 3.2 min vs. C3U: 4.3 ± 2.6 min, P < 0.05; AT C3: 15.7 ± 8.2 min vs. C3U: 4.5 ± 1.7 min, P < 0.05; AFL C3: 8.7 ± 3.2 min vs. C3U: 3.7 ± 2.7 min, P < 0.05; VAs C3: 7.7 ± 4.2 min vs. C3U: 3.9 ± 2.3 min, P < 0.05. Corresponding to the fluoroscopy time, the fluoroscopy dose was also reduced significantly. ③ In the C3U group, the fluoroscopy during VAs ablation was lower than that of other arrhythmias (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The usage of the “novel image integration technology” CARTO Univu might be safe and effective in RFCA for a wide spectrum of tachyarrhythmias in children, which could significantly reduce fluoroscopy and has a more prominent advantage for VAs ablation.
Nationwide trends of laparoscopic pyloromyotomy in patients with infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in Germany: A slow path forward
Authors: Leonhardt Johannes , Muensterer Oliver , Alsweed Ahmad , Schmedding Andrea
Published: April 2023

Since its introduction, laparoscopic pyloromyotomy (LP), has become increasingly popular in many countries. We have noticed an attenuated trend in Germany. The aim of this study was to analyse the distribution of open and LP in Germany. The national database of administrative claims data of the Institute for the Remuneration System in Hospitals (InEK) was analysed regarding numbers of patients with pyloromyotomy in the years 2019–2021. The German quality reports of the hospitals of 2019 and 2020 were analyzed regarding the number of procedures performed per hospital and pediatric surgical department. A total of 2050 patients underwent pyloromyotomy. The incidence of hypertrophic pylorus stenosis (HPS) was 699 and 657 patients in 2019 and 2021, respectively. Regarding age, 31.1% were admitted before 28 days of age. LP gradually increased from 216 patients (30.9%) in 2019 to 239 patients (36.4%) in 2021. Thirty-three laparoscopic operations (4.8%) were converted to an open approach. In 24 of all patients, there was an injury to the stomach, in 20 patients to the duodenum, needing repair with sutures. Analysis of the quality reports indicated that 44% of pediatric surgical departments performed LP. Although LP has became more prevalent in Germany recently, about two thirds of patients still undergo an open procedure.
Antidiabetic activity of Berberis brandisiana is possibly mediated through modulation of insulin signaling pathway, inflammatory cytokines and adipocytokines in high fat diet and streptozotocin-administered rats
Authors: Mehdi Shumaila , Mehmood Malik Hassan , Ahmed Mobeen Ghulam , Ashfaq Usman Ali
Published: April 2023

Medicinal plants play a key role in protection of chronic non-communicable ailments like diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Berberis brandisiana Ahrendt (Berberidaceae) is traditionally used to treat diabetes, liver problems, wounds, arthritis, infections, swelling and tumors. It is also known to be enriched with multiple phytoconstituents including berbamine, berberine, quercetin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, vanillic acid, benzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, m-coumaric acid and ferulic acid. The efficacy of B. brandisiana has not been established yet in diabetes. This study has been planned to assess the antidiabetic activity of B. brandisiana in high fat diet and streptozotocin (HFD/STZ)-induced diabetes using animals. Administration of aqueous methanolic extract of B. brandisiana (AMEBB) and berbamine (Berb) for 8 weeks caused a dose dependent marked (p < 0.01) rise in serum insulin and HDL levels with a significant decline (p < 0.01) in glucose, triglycerides, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), cholesterol, LDL, LFTs and RFTs levels when compared with only HFD/STZ-administered rats. AMEBB and Berb also modulated inflammatory biomarkers (TNF-α, IL-6) and adipocytokines (leptin, adiponectin and chemerin). AMEBB (150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg) and Berb (80 mg/kg and 160 mg/kg) treated rats showed a marked increase (p < 0.001) in catalase levels (Units/mg) in pancreas (42.4 ± 0.24, 47.4 ± 0.51), (38.2 ± 0.583, 48.6 ± 1.03) and liver (52 ± 1.41, 63.2 ± 0.51), (57.2 ± 0.58, 61.6 ± 1.24) and superoxide dismutase levels (Units/mg) in pancreas (34.8 ± 1.46, 38.2 ± 0.58), (33.2 ± 0.80, 40.4 ± 1.96) and liver (31.8 ± 1.52, 36.8 ± 0.96), (30 ± 0.70, 38.4 ± 0.81),respectively while a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in serum melondialdehyde levels (nmol/g) in pancreas (7.34 ± 0.17, 6.22 ± 0.22), (7.34 ± 0.20, 6.34 ± 0.11) and liver (9.08 ± 0.31,8.18 ± 0.29), (9.34 ± 0.10, 8.86 ± 0.24) compared to the data of only HFD/STZ-fed rats. Histopathological studies of pancreas, liver, kidney, heart and aorta revealed restoration of normal tissue architect in AMEBB and Berb treated rats. When mRNA expressions of candidate genes were assessed, AMEBB and Berb showed upregulation of IRS-1, SIRT1, GLUT-4 and downregulation of ADAM17. These findings suggest that AMEBB and Berb possess antidiabetic activity, possibly due to its effect on oxidative stress, glucose metabolism, inflammatory biomarkers and adipocytokines levels. Further upregulation of IRS-1, SIRT1, GLUT-4 and downregulation of ADAM17, demonstrated its potential impact on glucose homeostasis, insulin resistance and chronic inflammatory markers. Thus, this study provides support to the medicinal use of B. brandisiana and berbamine in diabetes.
Efficacy and safety of three species of Rhodiola L. in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Haichuan , Lei Ting , Su Xiaojie , Zhang Lu , Feng Zhouzhou , Dong Mengya , Hou Zheyu , Guo Hong , Liu Jian
Published: April 2023

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by chronic hypoxia, inflammation, oxidative stress, and irreversible airflow limitations. Rhodiola L. is a genus of botanical drugs used in traditional medicine that may influence COPD.

Objective: A systematic review of the safety and efficacy of Rhodiola L. in patients with COPD.

Material and methods: We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chongqing VIP, Wanfang, and SinoMed databases. The search strategy used terms including “COPD” and “Rhodiola.” Two independent reviewers conducted the literature screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment, with a third reviewer involved to resolve disagreements. Statistical analysis was conducted in Review Manager (version 5.4.1), following the Cochrane Handbook.

Results: This review included nine studies, of which two focused on Rhodiola crenulata (Hook.f. and Thomson) H. Ohba (R. crenulata) and two on Rhodiola kirilowii (Regel) Maxim (R. kirilowii); the remaining five focused on Rhodiola wallichiana (Hook.) S.H.Fu (R. wallichiana). Compared with the placebo, patients who received Rhodiola L. presented no more adverse events (p = 0.65) but showed significant improvement in the percentage of forced expiratory volume in 1 s at prediction (FEV1%pred), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s on forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC), saturation of oxygen in arterial blood, partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (PaCO2), systolic pulmonary arterial pressure, diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure, COPD assessment test, efficient rate, C-reactive protein, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (all p < 0.01). Compared with ambroxol, R. kirilowii provided additional benefits to patients with COPD in FEV1%pred, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PaO2, PaCO2, 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, malondialdehyde, and total antioxidant capacity (all p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Among the Rhodiola L. genus, this review included R. wallichiana, R. crenulata, and R. kirilowii, which might be safe and effective in COPD. Although this study has several limitations, further RCTs are needed.

Systematic Review Registration: [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ display_record.php?RecordID=302881], identifier [CRD42022361890].
Cell- and subcellular organelle-targeting nanoparticle-mediated breast cancer therapy
Authors: Wei Xue , Yang Ming
Published: April 2023

Graphical Abstract

This review summarizes and critically analyzes the latest therapeutic research on nanoparticle-mediated delivery systems targeting breast cancer drug resistance, metastasis, and immune escape in breast cancer and discusses the challenges and opportunities of nanoparticle-based therapy.
Ultrasound flow phantom for transcranial Doppler: An assessment of angular mismatch effect on blood velocity measurement in comparison to optical particle image velocimetry
Authors: Hashuro Muhammad Shiddiq Sayyid , Daibo Kotaro , Ishii Takuro , Saijo Yoshifumi , Ohta Makoto
Published: April 2023

Detecting abnormal blood flow is possible through transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound by measuring blood velocity in cerebral arteries. Velocity measurements are at the highest precision when the direction of blood flow coincides with the ultrasound beam. However, because TCD is typically performed blindly (i.e., without a B-mode), a 0° interrogation angle is usually assumed. This leads to a common issue of angular mismatch. This study quantitatively shows the angular mismatch effects on the measured velocities using a TCD ultrasound flow phantom compared with the velocities measured by optical particle image velocimetry (PIV) as control. Resulting errors with and without ultrasound machine angular correction were also considered. An ultrasound phantom developed by combining polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel (PVA-H), quartz glass as a scatterer, and a gypsum plate as a skull bone was utilized to approximate the middle cerebral artery TCD measurement from the temporal window. The PVA-H and quartz glass compositions were controlled to achieve transparency and enable PIV velocity measurement. Then, TCD velocity measurement was conducted on several interrogation and mismatch angles. Comparison results revealed that without an ultrasound machine angle correction, all measurements yielded underestimation with 73.9% at the highest in the 80° interrogation window at the 130 mL/min flow. On the other hand, with the correction, the errors in almost all angles were comparatively lower; however, at 80° at the 124 mL/min flow, a maximum overestimation rate of 113.7% was found, showing a larger error magnitude. Therefore, we find that angular mismatch, especially in larger angles, leads to inaccurate velocity measurements in TCD. Our results suggest that despite angle correction, velocity errors may still occur when the interrogation angle changes.
Exercise protects vascular function by countering senescent cells in older adults
Authors: Meng Jinqi , Geng Qi , Jin Sheng , Teng Xu , Xiao Lin , Wu Yuming , Tian Danyang
Published: April 2023

Blood vessels are key conduits for the transport of blood and circulating factors. Abnormalities in blood vessels promote cardiovascular disease (CVD), which has become the most common disease as human lifespans extend. Aging itself is not pathogenic; however, the decline of physiological and biological function owing to aging has been linked to CVD. Although aging is a complex phenomenon that has not been comprehensively investigated, there is accumulating evidence that cellular senescence aggravates various pathological changes associated with aging. Emerging evidence shows that approaches that suppress or eliminate cellular senescence preserve vascular function in aging-related CVD. However, most pharmacological therapies for treating age-related CVD are inefficient. Therefore, effective approaches to treat CVD are urgently required. The benefits of exercise for the cardiovascular system have been well documented in basic research and clinical studies; however, the mechanisms and optimal frequency of exercise for promoting cardiovascular health remain unknown. Accordingly, in this review, we have discussed the changes in senescent endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) that occur in the progress of CVD and the roles of physical activity in CVD prevention and treatment.
Effects of single session transcranial direct current stimulation on aerobic performance and one arm pull-down explosive force of professional rock climbers
Authors: Luo Jia , Fang Caihua , Huang Sen , Wu Jinlong , Liu Bowen , Yu Jingxuan , Xiao Wen , Ren Zhanbing
Published: April 2023

Objective: To explore the effects of single-session transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on aerobic performance and explosive force in the one-arm pull-down of long-term trained rock climbers.

Method: Twenty athletes (twelve male and eight female) from the Rock Climbing Team of Hunan province (Hunan, China) were selected for a randomized double-blind crossover study. After baseline tests, All subjects visited laboratories twice to randomly receive either sham or a-tDCS at a current intensity of 2 mA for 20 min. The two visits were more than 72 h apart. Immediately after each stimulation, subjects completed a 9-min 3-level-load aerobic test and a one-arm pull-down test.

Results: Differences in the heart rate immediately after 9-min incremental aerobic exercises revealed no statistical significance between each group (p > 0.05). However, the decrease in heart rate per unit time after exercise after real stimulation was significantly better than before stimulation (p < 0.05), and no statistical significance was observed between after sham stimulation and before stimulation (p > 0.05). One-arm pull-down explosive force on both sides after real stimulation was improved by a-tDCS compared with before stimulation, but with no significant difference (p > 0.05). Real stimulation was significantly improved, compared with sham stimulation on the right side (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Single-session tDCS could potentially benefit sports performance in professional athletes.
Seed endophytic bacterial profiling from wheat varieties of contrasting heat sensitivity
Authors: Aswini Krishnan , Suman Archna , Sharma Pushpendra , Singh Pradeep Kumar , Gond Shrikant , Pathak Devashish
Published: April 2023

Wheat yield can be limited by many biotic and abiotic factors. Heat stress at the grain filling stage is a factor that reduces wheat production tremendously. The potential role of endophytic microorganisms in mitigating plant stress through various biomolecules like enzymes and growth hormones and also by improving plant nutrition has led to a more in-depth exploration of the plant microbiome for such functions. Hence, we devised this study to investigate the abundance and diversity of wheat seed endophytic bacteria (WSEB) from heatS (heat susceptible, GW322) and heatT (heat tolerant, HD3298 and HD3271) varieties by culturable and unculturable approaches. The results evidenced that the culturable diversity was higher in the heatS variety than in the heatT variety and Bacillus was found to be dominant among the 10 different bacterial genera identified. Though the WSEB population was higher in the heatS variety, a greater number of isolates from the heatT variety showed tolerance to higher temperatures (up to 55°C) along with PGP activities such as indole acetic acid (IAA) production and nutrient acquisition. Additionally, the metagenomic analysis of seed microbiota unveiled higher bacterial diversity, with a predominance of the phyla Proteobacteria covering >50% of OTUs, followed by Firmicutes and Actinobacteria. There were considerable variations in the abundance and diversity between heat sensitivity contrasting varieties, where notably more thermophilic bacterial OTUs were observed in the heatT samples, which could be attributed to conferring tolerance against heat stress. Furthermore, exploring the functional characteristics of culturable and unculturable microbiomes would provide more comprehensive information on improving plant growth and productivity for sustainable agriculture.
Integrative analysis of physiology, biochemistry and transcriptome reveals the mechanism of leaf size formation in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Wang Lixia , Zhang Shu , Zhang Ye , Li Jingjuan , Zhang Yihui , Zhou Dandan , Li Cheng , He Lilong , Li Huayin , Wang Fengde , Gao Jianwei
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The leaf, the main product organ, is an essential factor in determining the Chinese cabbage growth, yield and quality.

Methods

To explore the regulatory mechanism of leaf size development of Chinese cabbage, we investigated the leaf size difference between two high-generation inbred lines of Chinese cabbage, Y2 (large leaf) and Y7 (small leaf). Furtherly, the transcriptome and cis-acting elements analyses were conducted.

Results and Discussion

According to our results, Y2 exhibited a higher growth rate than Y7 during the whole growth stage. In addition, the significant higher leaf number was observed in Y2 than in Y7. There was no significant difference in the number of epidermal cells and guard cells per square millimeter between Y2 and Y7 leaves. It indicated that cell numbers caused the difference in leaf size. The measurement of phytohormone content confirmed that GA1 and GA3 mainly play essential roles in the early stage of leaf growth, and IPA and ABA were in the whole leaf growth period in regulating the cell proliferation difference between Y2 and Y7. Transcriptome analysis revealed that cyclins BraA09g010980.3C (CYCB) and BraA10g027420.3C (CYCD) were mainly responsible for the leaf size difference between Y2 and Y7 Chinese cabbage. Further, we revealed that the transcription factors BraA09gMYB47 and BraA06gMYB88 played critical roles in the difference of leaf size between Y2 and Y7 through the regulation of cell proliferation.

Conclusion

This observation not only offers essential insights into understanding the regulation mechanism of leaf development, also provides a promising breeding strategy to improve Chinese cabbage yield.
Reliability and validity of the Vietnamese version of the Hamilton D-17 scale
Authors: Le-Nguyen-Thuy Phuong , Nguyen-Dao-Uyen Trang , Tran-Nguyen-Quynh Anh , Thai Truc Thanh , Ngo-Tich Linh , Do-Van Dung , Duong-Quy Sy
Published: April 2023

Background

While depression is a common mental disorder, the diagnosis of this condition is still challenging. Thus, there is a need to have a validated tool to help evaluate symptoms of depression. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Vietnamese version of the Hamilton D-17 scale.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive, and validation study was conducted on 183 patients including 139 depressed and 44 non-depressed patients at the University Medical Center of Medicine and Pharmacy University at Ho Chi Minh City. Internal reliability and inter-rater reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to evaluate construct validity. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9) was used to measure concurrent validity of the Hamilton D-17. Area under the ROC curve was used to measure criterion validity.

Results

Both Cronbach alpha coefficient and ICC were at good level at alpha = 0.83 and ICC = 0.83. CFA with a second-order model consisting of four factors fitted the data at good to excellent level. The SRMR (Standardized Root Mean Squared Residual) was 0.066, RMSEA (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation) (90% CI) was 0.053 (0.036–0.069), CFI (comparative fit index) was 0.93, TLI (Tucker Lewis index) was 0.92. The Hamilton D-17 and the PHQ-9 had a correlation coefficient of r = 0.77 (p < 0.001). The Hamilton D-17 had a very high level of criterion validity with AUC of 0.93 (0.88–0.98).

Conclusion

The Vietnamese version of the Hamilton D-17 scale has a high level of validity and reliability. The scale should be used to assess symptoms of depression among Vietnamese patients.
Examine sex differences in autism spectrum disorder in school-aged children and adolescents with fluent language
Authors: Ji Yan , Ji Yue , Zhu Hui-lin , Cheng San-mei , Zou Xiao-bing , Zhu Feng-lei
Published: April 2023

There are noteworthy sex disparities in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), while findings regarding the sex differences in core symptoms are inconsistent. There are few relevant studies on sex differences in mainland China. This study was dedicated to a deeper understanding of the impact of sex differences on the clinical presentation of ASD with fluent language. We retrospectively studied 301 children with ASD (58 females) and utilized raw scores from the ADI-R and ADOS and the intelligence quotient (IQ) to measure symptomatology. Based on the Full-Scale IQ (FS-IQ), a binary split of average, above-average IQ (high-IQ), and below-average IQ (low IQ) occurs at 85. Across the entire sample, males and females are comparable in the FS-IQ, while males scored higher in the Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI) (F = 7.812, p = 0.006). ADI-R did not find any statistically significant sex differences in the diagnostic cutoff score satisfaction or the raw domain scores. While a significant effect of sex on ADOS social affect domain scores was found in the total sample [λ = 0.970, partial η2 = 0.030, F (3,295) = 3.019, p = 0.030]. Tests of between-subjects effects revealed that males scored higher than females mainly in the ADOS reciprocal social interaction subcategory (partial η2 = 0.022, F = 6.563, p = 0.011). Stratified analysis revealed that the effect of sex on ADOS reciprocal social interaction subcategory scores only significant in the low-IQ children with ASD (partial η2 = 0.092, F = 10.088, p = 0.002). In general, overall cognitive functioning is similar across males and females with ASD, while males have a higher perceptual reasoning ability. Females with ASD are more likely to have comorbid intellectual impairment than males, and they could require additional intervention support. Autistic children with low IQs are more likely to exhibit sex differences in their core symptoms than children with high IQs. Intelligence plays a key role in sex-based differences in the core symptoms of ASD.
Efficacy of electrical cranial stimulation for treatment of psychiatric symptoms in patients with anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chung Feng-Chin , Sun Cheuk-Kwan , Chen Yi , Cheng Yu-Shian , Chung Weilun , Tzang Ruu-Fen , Chiu Hsien-Jane , Wang Ming-Yu , Cheng Ying-Chih , Hung Kuo-Chuan
Published: April 2023

Background

Therapeutic effects of electrical cranial stimulation (CES) in patients suffering from anxiety remained unclear. This meta-analysis aimed at investigating acceptability and therapeutic efficacy of CES against anxiety, depression, and insomnia for patients who experienced symptoms of anxiety.

Methods

Major electronic databases were searched from inception until December 10, 2022 for randomized controlled trials (RCT) focusing on therapeutic effectiveness of CES in patients whose primary complaints included anxiety. Effect sizes (ES) for different treatment outcomes were estimated by using generic inverse variance method.

Results

Eight RCTs were identified including a total of 337 participants. The therapeutic effectiveness of CES was significantly better than that in the control groups for anxiety (ES=-0.96, p <0.00001, eight trials, 337 patients), depression (ES=-0.69, p=0.003, five trials), and insomnia (ES=-1.02, p = 0.0006, three trials) in those who presented with symptoms of anxiety. Subgroup analyses found that CES was equally effective regardless of comorbid presentation of depressive symptoms (ES=-0.94 in patients with anxiety only vs. ES=-1.06 in those with depression and anxiety) and whether CES was used as monotherapy or add-on therapy to medications (ES = −0.88 vs. ES = −1.12, respectively). Moreover, subgroup analysis of RCTs using the same device “Alpha-Stim” for CES was more effective in alleviating anxiety than sham controls (ES = −0.88, p < 0.00001, four trials, 230 patients). Regarding acceptability, the use of CES did not increase the risk of treatment-related dropout compared to the control group (RR = 1.26, p = 0.57, I2 = 0%, four trials, 324 patients).

Conclusion

Our study supported the use of CES for symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia in those suffering from anxiety with fair acceptability and demonstrated the efficacy of “Alpha-Stim”, the most commonly used device for CES, in this patient population.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42022382619.
Determinants of depression, problem behavior, and cognitive level of adolescents in China: Findings from a national, population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Dong Yusang , He Xinyu , Ye Lizhen , Sun Lidan , Li Jiabin , Xu Jingfang , Cui Yuechong , Li Ziqiao , Hu Lidan , Bai Guannan
Published: April 2023

Introduction

We aimed to assess the associated factors for adolescent depression, problem behavior and cognitive level in China.

Methods

A total of 2,584 adolescents aged from 10 to 15 years old in 2018 were included for analyses. Information on a comprehensive set of potential determinants was collected by the questionnaire, including demographic, health-, school- and family-related factors. Differences in average scores of depression, problem behavior, and cognitive level across subgroups were assessed by two independent sample t-tests and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The clinical relevance among subgroups was assessed by the effect size. Multivariate linear regression models were applied to identify the statistically significant determinants.

Results

School-related factors and parental depressive status were strongly associated with depression. Low maternal education, poor/bad health of adolescents, high academic pressure, and parental depression were significantly associated with behavior problems. The socioeconomic factors, poor academic performance and father’s depression were significantly associated with adolescent cognitive level.

Discussion

Multiple associated factors were identified for depression, problem behavior, and cognition of Chinese adolescents, which will provide insights into developing more targeted public health policies and interventions to improve their mental health.
A rare case of schizophrenia coexistence with antiphospholipid syndrome, β-thalassemia, and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance
Authors: Jin Yingming , Cheng Yiquan , Mi Jifeng , Xu Jianfen
Published: April 2023

A patient with schizophrenia who was treated with chlorpromazine developed lupus anticoagulant (LA) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). On protein electrophoresis, a monoclonal immunoglobulin A peak was seen in this patient, defining a condition of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. Additionally, β-thalassemia was diagnosed with the CD41-42 genotype. This condition is extremely rare, particularly in patients with schizophrenia and APS. We present a case of a patient with schizophrenia and secondary APS who had a positive LA, a significantly prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, endogenous coagulation factor deficiency and inhibitor, no bleeding, and an unexpected finding of β-thalassemia and monoclonal IgA. Following that, a literature review on the disorders was presented.
Burnout syndrome in the Czech Republic: The decreasing trend over the years
Authors: Vňuková Martina Sebalo , Sebalo Ivan , Brečka Tibor , Anders Martin , Ptáček Radek
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Burnout syndrome is a state of long-term work exhaustion that manifests on three levels: cognitive, physical and emotional. Research regarding burnout syndrome has spiked in recent years. Despite burnout syndrome not being a clinical diagnosis, it has been recognized as a significant reason for work absence or, in some cases, even work leave. This study examines trends in burnout in the Czech population. The main aim of this research was to fill in the burnout literature gap and document the burnout trend over the years. Our secondary aim was to see if there is awareness regarding burnout syndrome and whether, over the years, we will see an increasing or a decreasing trend in burnout prevalence.

Methods

Data collection took place in three waves using the computer assisted web interviewing (CAWI) method. In 2014 n = 1,027, in 2017 n = 1,024, and in 2020 n = 1,000. Respondents were selected from the European National Panel. Because the target group was adults (18–65 years), an online survey was chosen. Internet penetration in this target population is sufficient, and it was not necessary to use a combination of methodologies.

Results

The results suggest a decreasing tendency for burnout syndrome in the Czech Republic. Knowledge about burnout syndrome is increasing, suggesting that people are paying more attention to their mental health and the possible factors that might affect the severity of burnout syndrome.

Conclusion

Overall, burnout threatens the general population, not only medical employees. It is a positive finding that over the years, there has been an increasing trend in awareness about burnout. It further shows that people have adopted certain precautions and steps to avoid burnout syndrome as the perceived threat from it gradually decreases.
How does national development zone policy affect carbon emissions in China? New evidence from a quasi-natural experiment
Authors: Feng Yanchao , Gao Yue , Zhu Yuehua , Hu Shilei
Published: April 2023

The expansion of China's development zones has made great contributions to economic development, as well as provided practical guidance for other developing countries to implement development zone policies. However, in the context of global advocacy of low carbon, literature about how the development zone policy affect carbon emissions is poor, especially in China at the urban level. Therefore, this study takes China's development zone policy as a quasi-natural experiment, using the panel data of 285 cities in China from 2003 to 2020, and adopting the DID model to analyze its impact on carbon emissions. After a series of robustness tests including placebo test, dynamic test (all independent variables are lagged by one period), endogeneity test, and parallel trend test, the results are basically robust. The findings show that the development zone policy indeed significantly reduces carbon emissions. In addition, we find that cities with higher resource endowments, cities in the eastern and central regions, and other larger cities across the country have better carbon emissions reduction effects. To a certain extent, the research in this paper fills the gap of theoretical research on carbon emissions in terms of the development zone policy, and provides some practical basis for future research in the field of carbon emissions.