bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiome-gut-brain axis contributes to patients and Bama miniature pigs with acute large ischemic stroke
Authors: Deng Dazhi , Lei Hehua , Cao Zheng , Zhang Cui , Du Ruichen , Gao Xin , Wei Junjie , Lu Yibo , Zhou Xiangzhen , Zhang Limin
Published: July 2024

Acute large hemispheric infarction (ALHI) is an overwhelming emergency with a great challenge of gastrointestinal dysfunction clinically. Here, we initially proposed delayed bowel movements as the clinical phenotype of strike to gut-brain axis (GBA) in ALHI patients by epidemiological analysis of 499 acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. 1H NMR-based metabolomics revealed that AIS markedly altered plasma global metabolic profiling of patients compared with healthy controls. Risk factors of strike on GBA were the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥ 5 and stroke onset time ≤ 24 h. As a result, first defecating time after admission to the hospital ≥2 days could be considered as a potential risk factor for strike on GBA. Subsequently, the ALHI Bama miniature (BM) pig model with acute symptomatic seizure was successfully established by ligation of the left ascending pharyngeal artery combined with local air injection. Clinical phenotypes of brain necrosis such as hemiplegia were examined with brain diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and pathological diagnosis. In addition to global brain injury and inflammation, we also found that ALHI induced marked alterations of intestinal barrier integrity, the gut microbial community, and microbiota-derived metabolites including serotonin and neurotransmitters in both plasma and multiple brain tissues of BM pigs. These findings revealed that microbiota-gut-brain axis highly contributed to the occurrence and development of ALHI.
n-3 PUFA ameliorate functional outcomes following repetitive mTBI in the fat-1 mouse model
Authors: Lau Jessi S. , Lust Cody A. C. , Lecques Jessica-Dominique , Hillyer Lyn M. , Mountjoy Margo , Kang Jing X. , Robinson Lindsay E. , Ma David W. L.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Repeated mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) are a continuing healthcare concern worldwide, given its potential for enduring adverse neurodegenerative conditions. Past research suggests a potential protective effect of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in experimental models of mTBI. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the neuroprotective benefits of n-3 PUFA persist following repetitive weight drop injury (WDI).

Methods

Male fat-1 mice (n = 12), able to endogenously convert n-6 PUFA to n-3 PUFA, and their wild type (WT) counterparts (n = 12) were maintained on a 10% w/w safflower diet. At 9–10 weeks of age, both groups received one mild low-impact WDI on the closed cranium daily, for three consecutive days. Following each WDI, time to righting reflex and seeking behaviour were measured. Neurological recovery, cognitive, motor, and neurobehavioural outcomes were assessed using the Neurological Severity Score (NSS) over 7 days (168 h) post-last WDI. Brains were assessed for cerebral microhemorrhages by Prussian blue and cellular damage by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) staining.

Results

Fat-1 mice exhibited significantly faster righting reflex and seeking behaviour time, and lower mean NSS scores and at all post-WDI time points (p ≤ 0.05) compared to WT mice. Immunohistochemistry showed no significant difference in presence of cerebral microhemorrhage however, fat-1 mice had significantly lower GFAP staining in comparison to WT mice (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

n-3 PUFA is effective in restoring cognitive, motor, and behavioural function after repetitive WDI, which may be mediated through reduced cellular damage of the brain.
Microbiota gut-brain axis: implications for pediatric-onset leukodystrophies
Authors: Vaia Ylenia , Bruschi Fabio , Tagi Veronica Maria , Tosi Martina , Montanari Chiara , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo , Tonduti Davide , Verduci Elvira
Published: July 2024

Neurodegenerative disorders are a group of diseases characterized by progressive degeneration of the nervous system, leading to a gradual loss of previously acquired motor, sensory and/or cognitive functions. Leukodystrophies are amongst the most frequent childhood-onset neurodegenerative diseases and primarily affect the white matter of the brain, often resulting in neuro-motor disability. Notably, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and complications, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and dysphagia, significantly impact patients’ quality of life, highlighting the need for comprehensive management strategies. Gut dysbiosis, characterized by microbial imbalance, has been implicated in various GI disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. This narrative review explores the intricate relationship between GI symptoms, Gut Microbiota (GM), and neurodegeneration. Emerging evidence underscores the profound influence of GM on neurological functions via the microbiota gut-brain axis. Animal models have demonstrated alterations in GM composition associated with neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Our single-centre experience reveals a high prevalence of GI symptoms in leukodystrophy population, emphasizing the importance of gastroenterological assessment and nutritional intervention in affected children. The bidirectional relationship between GI disorders and neurodegeneration suggests a potential role of gut dysbiosis in disease progression. Prospective studies investigating the GM in leukodystrophies are essential to understand the role of gut-brain axis dysfunction in disease progression and identify novel therapeutic targets. In conclusion, elucidating the interplay between GI disorders, GM, and neurodegeneration holds promise for precision treatments aimed at improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Innovations in colorectal cancer treatment: trifluridine and tipiracil with bevacizumab for improved outcomes – a review
Authors: Rais Taruba , Riaz Rumaisa , Siddiqui Tasmiyah , Shakeel Amna , Khan Afsheen , Zafar Habiba
Published: July 2024

Colorectal cancer ranks second in cancer-related deaths throughout the world. At the time of diagnosis, at least 20% of the patients with CRC had already developed metastases. Treating and effectively managing metastatic colorectal cancer remains an unsolved task for the health sector. Research and clinical trials have been done to find the best possible solution for patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer. The approval of the combination therapy of trifluridine and tipiracil with bevacizumab for previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a remarkable breakthrough in CRC treatment. Our goal through this article is to give detailed knowledge about the pathogenesis of CRC, its prevalence, and its clinical features. Here, we have also discussed the past medical treatments that have been used for treating mCRC, including the anti-EGFR therapy, aflibercept, ramucirumab, and regorafenib. However, the focus of this document is to assess the combination of LONSURF (trifluridine/tipiracil) and bevacizumab by reviewing the clinical trials and relevant research.
Association between obstructive sleep apnea and risk of lung cancer: findings from a collection of cohort studies and Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Yao Jun , Duan Ran , Li Qingyuan , Mo Ruonan , Zheng Pengcheng , Feng Tong
Published: July 2024

Background

Previous cohort studies conducted on large populations have suggested a potential association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and an elevated risk of developing lung cancer. However, limited research has comprehensively investigated the correlation between the two conditions, and the causal effect remains unknown.

Methods

A comprehensive and systematic search was conducted across various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase, from their inception dates to November 1, 2023. To assess the relationship between OSA and lung cancer, a meta-analysis was performed. Additionally, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted using summary data. The datasets included 336,659 individuals from the FinnGen study for OSA and 27,209 individuals from the International Lung Cancer Consortium study, as well as 420,473 individuals from the UK Biobank study for lung cancer. The estimates from each study were aggregated using the inverse variance-weighted method.

Results

Data from six population-based cohort studies, encompassing 6,589,725 individuals, indicated a significant increase in the risk of developing lung cancer among patients with OSA (HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.07-1.54). However, the MR analysis did not support a causal relationship between OSA and lung cancer (OR 1.001, 95% CI 0.929–1.100). This lack of association was consistent across specific subtypes of lung cancer, including non-small-cell lung cancer (OR 1.000, 95% CI 0.999–1.000, p = 0.974), lung adenocarcinoma (OR 0.996, 95% CI 0.906–1.094, p = 0.927), and squamous cell lung carcinoma (OR 1.034, 95% CI 0.937–1.140, p = 0.507).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis findings suggest an elevated risk of lung cancer among individuals with OSA. However, the MR analysis did not provide evidence supporting a causal relationship between OSA and lung cancer. Further investigation is required to uncover the underlying factors contributing to the observed association between OSA and lung cancer risk.
Phase Ib and pharmacokinetics study of alpelisib, a PIK3CA inhibitor, and capecitabine in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Lim Ah Reum , Kim Boyeon , Kim Jwa Hoon , Hyun Myung Han , Park Kyong Hwa , Kim Yeul Hong , Lee Soohyeon
Published: July 2024

Background

This phase Ib study was performed to determine the safety of combination capecitabine with alpleisib (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit p110α blockade) and determine the maximal tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended phase ll dose (RP2D) of this combination regimen in patients with advanced solid tumors refractory to standard therapy. The synergistic anti-tumor activity and pharmacokinetics (PK) were investigated.

Methods

Dose escalation phases were conducted in patients with advanced solid cancers who were refractory to standard therapy regardless of PIK3CA mutation. Patients were administered orally once daily alpelisib (200mg and 300mg) and twice daily capecitabine (850mg, 1000mg, 1250mg orally, days 1–14) every 3 weeks. Standard “3 + 3” dose escalation was used to define the MTD. The effect of alpelisib on the PK of capecitabine was assessed.

Results

Patients with 6 colorectal cancer (three PIK3CA mutation) and 6 breast cancer (all PIK3CA mutation) were enrolled. The first three patients in dose level 0 (alpelisib 200mg daily, capecitabine 1,000 mg/m2 twice daily) had no dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs). In dose level 1 (alpelisib increased to 300 mg daily, capecitabine 1,000mg twice daily), one of six patients had DLT (grade (Gr) 3 hyperglycemia). When dose level 2 (alpelisib 300mg daily, capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily) was expanded to 3 patients, no patients had DLTs. The combination of alpelisib 300mg daily and capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily was declared as the MTD/RP2D in patients with advanced solid tumors. The most common AEs were Gr 1–3 hyperglycemia (75.0%). Frequent all-grade, treatment-related AEs included Gr 2–3 nausea (75.0%), Gr 1–2 diarrhea (50.0%), Gr 1–2 hand-foot syndrome (41.7%), Gr 1–2 anorexia (41.7%), Gr 2 mucositis (33.3%). Antitumor activity was observed in patients with PIK3CA mutant breast cancer (3 partial response and 3 stable disease of total 6 patients). Alpelisib exposure (Cmax and AUC0-12) was unaffected by concomitant capecitabine. There were no clinically relevant drug-drug interactions observed between alpelisib and capecitabine.

Conclusions

The combination of alpelisib and capecitabine is generally tolerated, without pharmacokinetic interactions, and shows antitumor activity in patients with PIK3CA mutant advanced cancers.
Unraveling the MicroRNA tapestry: exploring the molecular dynamics of locoregional recurrent rectal cancer
Authors: Meyer N. Helge , Kotnik Nika , Noubissi Nzeteu Gaetan Aime , van Kempen Léon C. , Mastik Mirjam , Bockhorn Maximilian , Troja Achim
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent malignancy globally, with a concerning rise in incidence among young adults. Despite progress in understanding genetic predispositions and lifestyle risk factors, the intricate molecular mechanisms of CRC demand exploration. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) emerge as key regulators of gene expression and their deregulation in tumor cells play pivotal roles in cancer progression.

Methods

NanoString's nCounter technology was utilized to measure the expression of 827 cancer-related miRNAs in tumor tissue and adjacent non-involved normal colon tissue from five patients with locoregional CRC progression. These expression profiles were then compared to those from the primary colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) cohort in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA).

Results and discussion

Intriguingly, 156 miRNAs showed a contrasting dysregulation pattern in reccurent tumor compared to their expression in the TCGA COAD cohort. This observation implies dynamic alterations in miRNA expression patterns throughout disease progression. Our exploratory study contributes to understanding the regulatory landscape of recurrent CRC, emphasizing the role of miRNAs in disease relapse. Notable findings include the prominence of let-7 miRNA family, dysregulation of key target genes, and dynamic changes in miRNA expression patterns during progression. Univariate Cox proportional hazard models highlighted miRNAs associated with adverse outcomes and potential protective factors. The study underscores the need for more extensive investigations into miRNA dynamics during tumor progression and the value of stage specific biomarkers for prognosis.
Investigation of immunomodulatory and cytotoxic effects of shed snake skin (Elaphe sauromates) extract
Authors: Sinmez Cagri Caglar , Tüfekçi Emre , Demir Büşra Şeniz , Eken Ahmet , Guneş Vehbi , Ekici Seda , Bozkaya Esra , Aykun Ali İlteriş
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Shed snake skin (SSS) is commonly used empirically in ethnomedicine to treat psoriasis, acne, warts, eczema, scabies, open wounds, hemorrhoids, and glaucoma. Although a few studies exist, SSS extracts’ in vitro immunological effects have yet to be well described. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of SSS extract on murine lymphocytes and T cells.

Methods

Hexane, methanol, and chloroform extractions were conducted in collected SSS samples. Protein concentrations in the SSS extract were measured. The cytotoxic and anticancer activities were measured using L929 Fibroblast and SK MEL 30 Cell Lines via MTT assay as described in TS EN ISO 10993-5. Immunomodulatory activities of SSS extract on total lymphocytes or enriched CD4+ T cell cultures, their cell-specific pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β. IL-12p40, IL-23p19, TNF-α, IL-17A, IFN-γ, IL-10, TGFβ1) levels were measured via FACS ARIA III analysis and related gene expression with Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (Rt-qPCR).

Results

Hexane, methanol, and chloroform-extracted SSS were tested on SK-MEL-30 cells via MTT and revealed a superior anti-proliferative effect for hexane extract of SSS at low concentrations. SSS treatment of murine lymphocytes augmented Tnf-α and IFN-γ levels produced by CD3+ T cells when lymphocytes were activated with anti-CD3/CD28 or LPS stimulation. This effect required the presence of non-T cells, possibly antigen-presenting cells, and was not observed on purified CD4+ T cells. Additionally, SSS significantly blocked suppressive cytokine Tgfb gene expression (but not Il10) without altering in vitro Treg generation/or expansion.

Discussion

This is the first in vitro study investigating SSS’s anti-tumor and immunomodulatory effects. Our data provide evidence for SSS’s anti-proliferative activity on SK-MEL-30 cells and its pro-inflammatory role on murine lymphocytes, which warrants further investigation of the potential use of SSS extract with in vivo disease models.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of camrelizumab plus paclitaxel and carboplatin versus sintilimab plus gemcitabine and cisplatin or carboplatin for the first-line treatment of local advanced or metastatic squamous NSCLC in Chinese mainland
Authors: Liu Xiaoting , Liu Xiao-xue , Shao Wenqing , Zhou Yi , Zhang Jing , Zhao Cuirong , Shen Chengwu
Published: July 2024

Objective

Both camrelizumab plus paclitaxel and carboplatin (CTC) and sintilimab plus gemcitabine and cisplatin or carboplatin (SGP) have been approved by the National Medical Products Administration of China (NMPA) for the first-line treatment of local advanced or metastatic sqNSCLC. However, the comparison of the two treatments as first-line treatments in efficacy or pharmacoeconomics has barely been studied. To deeply understand the costs and outcomes of the two treatments, this work directly compared the cost-effectiveness for the first-line treatment of local advanced or metastatic squamous NSCLC in the Chinese mainland.

Methods

A network meta-analysis was first performed based on the three clinical trials, namely, CameL-Sq, ORIENT-12, and C-TONG1002, to compare the clinical benefits of the two treatments. The Weibull approximation was applied to further calculate the life expectancy of the two treatments. The partitioned survival model (PSM) was next established, and one-way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were also performed to evaluate the stability of the underlying parameter values and assumptions within the model.

Results

CTC treatment gained 0.68 QALYs and cost $14,764. SGP treatment gained 0.54 QALYs and cost $14,584. The CTC arm gained 0.14 additional QALYs and cost $179 more than the SGP arm, and the ICERs was $1,269/QALY, which was lower than one-fold GDP per capita in the Chinese mainland ($12,734 GDP per capita in 2022). In probabilistic sensitivity analysis, when the WTP ranged from $12,734–38,202 (1–3 folds, 2022 GDP per capita in China), the CTC group had higher probabilities than the SGP group for being cost effective, which ranged from 85.65% to 88.38%.

Conclusion

From the perspective of the payers, camrelizumab plus chemotherapy was cost-effective compared with sintilimab plus chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of local advanced or metastatic squamous NSCLC in the Chinese mainland.
Is it time to recommend AUC-based vancomycin therapeutic drug monitoring only? A cross-sectional survey in China
Authors: Liu Jieqiong , Zhang Xuan , Liang Gang , Zhu Jianping , Yang Yi , Zheng Ying , Han Yun , Yu Lingyan , Zhao Yuhua , Yu Zhenwei
Published: July 2024

Background

The latest published therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) guidelines for vancomycin recommend changing trough-based monitoring to area under the concentration-to-time curve (AUC)-based monitoring. This study aimed to evaluate the implementation status and perceptions of vancomycin AUC-based TDM in China and to determine the challenges in performing AUC-based TDM.

Methods

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted in China using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised a total of 25 questions with open- and closed-ended answers to collect information about the current implementation of vancomycin TDM and the participants’ perceptions of these practices. The questionnaire responses were collected via the Questionnaire Star platform and analyzed.

Results

A total of 161 questionnaires were completed by 131 hospitals and were included. Approximately 59.5% (78/131) of the surveyed hospitals conducted vancomycin TDM; however, only 10.7% (14/131) of these hospitals performed AUC-based vancomycin TDM. Of the eligible participants, 58.4% (94/161) had experience with vancomycin TDM, and only 37 participants (37/161, 23.0%) had the ability to estimate the AUC, primarily through Bayesian simulation (33/161, 20.5%). The participants considered the following challenges to implementing AUC-based monitoring: (1) the high cost of AUC-based monitoring; (2) inadequate knowledge among pharmacists and/or physicians; (3) the complexity of AUC calculations; (4) difficulty obtaining AUC software; and (5) unclear benefit of AUC-based monitoring.

Conclusion

The majority of surveyed hospitals have not yet implemented AUC-based vancomycin TDM. Multiple challenges should be addressed before wide implementation of AUC-based monitoring, and guidance for trough-based monitoring is still needed.
Trend of albumin nanoparticles in oncology: a bibliometric analysis of research progress and prospects
Authors: Liu Ye , Li Yi , Shen Wei , Li Min , Wang Wen , Jin Xin
Published: July 2024

Background

Delivery systems based on albumin nanoparticles (NPs) have recently garnered substantial interest in anti-tumor drug development. However, systematic bibliometric analyses in this field remain lacking. This study aimed to analyze the current research status, hotspots, and frontiers in the application of albumin NPs in the field of oncology from a bibliometric perspective.

Methods

Using the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) as the data source, retrieved articles were analyzed using software, such as VOSviewer 1.6.18 and CiteSpace 6.1.6, and the relevant visualization maps were plotted.

Results

From 1 January 2000, to 15 April 2024, 2,262 institutions from 67 countries/regions published 1,624 articles related to the application of albumin NPs in the field of oncology. The USA was a leader in this field and held a formidable academic reputation. The most productive institution was the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The most productive author was Youn YS, whereas Kratz F was the most frequently co-cited author. The most productive journal was the International Journal of Nanomedicine, whereas the Journal of Controlled Release was the most co-cited journal. Future research hotspots and frontiers included “rapid and convenient synthesis methods predominated by self-assembly,” “surface modification,” “construction of multifunctional NPs for theranostics,” “research on natural active ingredients mainly based on phenolic compounds,” “combination therapy,” and “clinical applications.”

Conclusion

Based on our bibliometric analysis and summary, we obtained an overview of the research on albumin NPs in the field of oncology, identified the most influential countries, institutions, authors, journals, and citations, and discussed the current research hotspots and frontiers in this field. Our study may serve as an important reference for future research in this field.
The story of clobenpropit and CXCR4: can be an effective drug in cancer and autoimmune diseases?
Authors: Abbasifard Mitra , Bagherzadeh Kowsar , Khorramdelazad Hossein
Published: July 2024

Clobenpropit is a histamine H3 receptor antagonist and has developed as a potential therapeutic drug due to its ability to inhibit CXCR4, a chemokine receptor involved in autoimmune diseases and cancer pathogenesis. The CXCL12/CXCR4 axis involves several biological phenomena, including cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, inflammation, and metastasis. Accordingly, inhibiting CXCR4 can have promising clinical outcomes in patients with malignancy or autoimmune disorders. Based on available knowledge, Clobenpropit can effectively regulate the release of monocyte-derived inflammatory cytokine in autoimmune diseases such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), presenting a potential targeted target with possible advantages over current therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes the intricate interplay between Clobenpropit and CXCR4 and the molecular mechanisms underlying their interactions, comprehensively analyzing their impact on immune regulation. Furthermore, we discuss preclinical and clinical investigations highlighting the probable efficacy of Clobenpropit for managing autoimmune diseases and cancer. Through this study, we aim to clarify the immunomodulatory role of Clobenpropit and its advantages and disadvantages as a novel therapeutic opportunity.
Insights into the phytochemical profiling, antidiabetic and antioxidant potentials of Lepionurus sylvestris Blume extract in fructose/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Pan Xianzhu , Olatunji Opeyemi Joshua , Basit Abdul , Sripetthong Sasikarn , Nalinbenjapun Sirinporn , Ovatlarnporn Chitchamai
Published: July 2024

In this study, the antidiabetic activities of Lepionurus sylvestris Blume extract (LSB) in rats was investigated. The in vitro antidiabetic properties of LSB was evaluated using α-amylase, α-glucosidase and DPP-IV inhibitory assays, while the antioxidant assay was analysed using DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays. Type 2 diabetes was with high-fructose/streptozotocin, and the diabetic animals were treated with LSB for 5 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the effects of LSB were evaluated via insulin level, lipid profile and hepatorenal function biomarkers. The level of oxido-inflammatory parameters, histopathology and insulin immunohistochemical staining in the pancreas was evaluated. Diabetic rats manifested significant increases in the blood glucose level, food/water intake, lipid profiles, hepatorenal function biomarkers, as well as a marked decreases in the body weight and serum insulin levels. Histopathological and insulin immunohistochemical examination also revealed decreased pancreatic beta cells and insulin positive cells, respectively. These alterations were associated with significant increases in malondialdehyde, TNF-α and IL-1β, in addition to significant declines in GSH, SOD and CAT activities. LSB significantly reduced blood glucose level, glucose intolerance, serum lipids, restored altered hepatorenal and pancreatic functions in the treated diabetic rats. Further, LSB showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities by reducing malondialdehyde, TNF-α, IL-1β, and increasing antioxidant enzymes activities in the pancreatic tissues. A total of 77 secondary metabolites were tentatively identified in the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis of LSB. Overall, these findings provides insight into the potentials of LSB as an antidiabetic agent which may be associated to the plethora bioactive compounds in the plant.
IntervoxNet: a novel dual-modal audio-text fusion network for automatic and efficient depression detection from interviews
Authors: Ding Huijun , Du Zhou , Wang Ziwei , Xue Junqi , Wei Zhaoguo , Yang Kongjun , Jin Shan , Zhang Zhiguo , Wang Jianhong
Published: July 2024

Depression is a prevalent mental health problem across the globe, presenting significant social and economic challenges. Early detection and treatment are pivotal in reducing these impacts and improving patient outcomes. Traditional diagnostic methods largely rely on subjective assessments by psychiatrists, underscoring the importance of developing automated and objective diagnostic tools. This paper presents IntervoxNet, a novel computeraided detection system designed specifically for analyzing interview audio. IntervoxNet incorporates a dual-modal approach, utilizing both the Audio Mel-Spectrogram Transformer (AMST) for audio processing and a hybrid model combining Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers with a Convolutional Neural Network (BERT-CNN) for text analysis. Evaluated on the DAIC-WOZ database, IntervoxNet demonstrates excellent performance, achieving F1 score, recall, precision, and accuracy of 0.90, 0.92, 0.88, and 0.86 respectively, thereby surpassing existing state of the art methods. These results demonstrate IntervoxNet’s potential as a highly effective and efficient tool for rapid depression screening in interview settings.
Near infrared spectroscopy for cooking time classification of cassava genotypes
Authors: Bandeira e Sousa Massaine , Morales Cinara Fernanda Garcia , Mbanjo Edwige Gaby Nkouaya , Egesi Chiedozie , Oliveira Eder Jorge de
Published: July 2024

Cooking time is a crucial determinant of culinary quality of cassava roots and incorporating it into the early stages of breeding selection is vital for breeders. This study aimed to assess the potential of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in classifying cassava genotypes based on their cooking times. Five cooking times (15, 20, 25, 30, and 40 minutes) were assessed and 888 genotypes evaluated over three crop seasons (2019/2020, 2020/2021, and 2021/2022). Fifteen roots from five plants per plot, featuring diameters ranging from 4 to 7 cm, were randomly chosen for cooking analysis and spectral data collection. Two root samples (15 slices each) per genotype were collected, with the first set aside for spectral data collection, processed, and placed in two petri dishes, while the second set was utilized for cooking assessment. Cooking data were classified into binary and multiclass variables (CT4C and CT6C). Two NIRs devices, the portable QualitySpec® Trek (QST) and the benchtop NIRFlex N-500 were used to collect spectral data. Classification of genotypes was carried out using the K-nearest neighbor algorithm (KNN) and partial least squares (PLS) models. The spectral data were split into a training set (80%) and an external validation set (20%). For binary variables, the classification accuracy for cassava cooking time was notably high (RCal2 ranging from 0.72 to 0.99). Regarding multiclass variables, accuracy remained consistent across classes, models, and NIR instruments (~0.63). However, the KNN model demonstrated slightly superior accuracy in classifying all cooking time classes, except for the CT4C variable (QST) in the NoCook and 25 min classes. Despite the increased complexity associated with binary classification, it remained more efficient, offering higher classification accuracy for samples and facilitating the selection of the most relevant time or variables, such as cooking time ≤ 30 minutes. The accuracy of the optimal scenario for classifying samples with a cooking time of 30 minutes reached RCal2  = 0.86 and RVal2 = 0.84, with a Kappa value of 0.53. Overall, the models exhibited a robust fit for all cooking times, showcasing the significant potential of NIRs as a high-throughput phenotyping tool for classifying cassava genotypes based on cooking time.
Optimization of in planta methodology for genome editing and transformation in Citrus
Authors: Khadgi Archana , Sagawa Cintia H. D. , Vernon Corina , Mermaz Benoit , Irish Vivian F.
Published: July 2024

Genetic transformation of many plant species relies on in vitro tissue culture-based approaches. This can be a labor-intensive process, requiring aseptic conditions and regenerating often recalcitrant species from tissue culture. Here, we have optimized an in planta transformation protocol to rapidly transform commercial citrus cultivars, bypassing the need for tissue culture. As a proof of concept, we used in planta transformation to introduce CRISPR/Cas9 constructs into Limoneira 8A Lisbon lemon and Pineapple sweet orange, cultivars that are challenging to transform with conventional techniques. Using our optimized protocol, the regeneration rate was significantly increased from 4.8% to over 95%, resulting in multiple gene-edited lines in lemon. We also successfully recovered gene-edited Pineapple sweet orange lines using this protocol; the transformation efficiency for these cultivars ranged between 0.63% and 4.17%. Remarkably, these lines were obtained within three months, making this in planta protocol a rapid methodology to obtain transformed citrus plants. This approach can rapidly and effectively introduce key genetic changes into a wide variety of citrus cultivars.
Infographics on signs and symptoms of metastatic (secondary) breast cancer can empower women with a breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Derakshan Nazanin , Taylor Joanne , Chapman Bethany
Published: July 2024

We investigated the usefulness of a metastatic (secondary) breast cancer Infographics designed to enhance knowledge about symptoms of metastatic breast cancer in women diagnosed with breast cancer. Women with a primary or metastatic diagnosis of breast cancer who had not been in receipt of the Infographics previously, were sent the Infographics and asked to complete a questionnaire measuring their views of the usefulness of the Infographics in a number of domains. They were also asked to complete questionnaires on, anxiety and depression, coping, emotion regulation strategies and perceived cognitive functioning. Results showed that women advocated the use of the Infographics in medical and health care settings, as well as its ability in equipping themwith the relevant knowledge on signs of recurrence, its benefits in empowering control and reducing fears and uncertainties regarding metastatic breast cancer. Exploratory analysis showed that individual differences in trait vulnerability to anxiety and in emotion regulation strategies modulated women’s responses suggesting the use of tailored approaches in the communication of the Infographics with patients. Our results point to the overall benefits of the Infographics in a number of domains. Implications for applications in healthcare settings are discussed.
Music performance anxiety: development and validation of the Portuguese music performance anxiety scale
Authors: Barros Samuel , França Alex , Marinho Helena , Pereira Anabela
Published: July 2024

Several studies have developed and validated specific scales to understand, identify and confirm research hypotheses associated with music performance anxiety (MPA). These scales mostly assess behavioral, cognitive, and physiological factors. There is currently no original MPA assessment tool for higher music education in Continental Portuguese, which suggests a research gap. The aim of this study was to determine if the Portuguese Music Performance Anxiety Scale (PoMPAS), developed for this research, is a valid and reliable measure of MPA for the context of higher education in Portugal. The total sample was N = 414 (166 male, 245 female, and three without gender identification). The development of this scale was based on a three-dimensional model (behavioral, cognitive, and physiological), following the theoretical models of Salmon (1990) and Osborne and Kenny (2005). Confirmatory factor analysis of the PoMPAS suggested a good fit in a three-dimensional model with 27 items. The internal consistency values proved appropriate, showing good Cronbach’s alphas (between α = 0.81 and α = 0.90). The McDonald’s Omega also demonstrated good consistency (between ω = 0.81 and ω = 0.90). The PoMPAS is a reliable tool to measure the impact of MPA, with good psychometric qualities, specifically for the Portuguese higher music education context.
The future of neuropsychology is digital, theory-driven, and Bayesian: a paradigmatic study of cognitive flexibility
Authors: Schmerwitz Clara , Kopp Bruno
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study explores the transformative potential of digital, theory-driven, and Bayesian paradigms in neuropsychology by combining digital technologies, a commitment to evaluating theoretical frameworks, and Bayesian statistics. The study also examines theories of executive function and cognitive flexibility in a large sample of neurotypical individuals (N = 489).

Methods

We developed an internet-based Wisconsin Card-Sorting Task (iWCST) optimized for online assessment of perseveration errors (PE). Predictions of the percentage of PE, PE (%), in non-repetitive versus repetitive situations were derived from the established supervisory attention system (SAS) theory, non-repetitive PE (%) < repetitive PE (%), and the novel goal-directed instrumental control (GIC) theory, non-repetitive PE (%) > repetitive PE (%).

Results

Bayesian t-tests revealed the presence of a robust error suppression effect (ESE) indicating that PE are less likely in repetitive situations than in non-repetitive situations, contradicting SAS theory with posterior model probability p < 0.001 and confirming GIC theory with posterior model probability p > 0.999. We conclude that repetitive situations support cognitive set switching in the iWCST by facilitating the retrieval of goal-directed, instrumental memory that associates stimulus features, actions, and outcomes, thereby generating the ESE in neurotypical individuals. We also report exploratory data analyses, including a Bayesian network analysis of relationships between iWCST measures.

Discussion

Overall, this study serves as a paradigmatic model for combining digital technologies, theory-driven research, and Bayesian statistics in neuropsychology. It also provides insight into how this integrative, innovative approach can advance the understanding of executive function and cognitive flexibility and inform future research and clinical applications.
Islands in the stream: a qualitative study on the accessibility of mental health care for persons with substance use disorders in Belgium
Authors: De Ruysscher Clara , Magerman Jürgen , Goethals Ilse , Chantry Mégane , Sinclair Deborah L. , Delespaul Philippe , De Maeyer Jessica , Nicaise Pablo , Vanderplasschen Wouter
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Persons with substance use disorders (SUD) make up a considerable proportion of mental health care service users worldwide. Since 2010, Belgian mental health care has undergone a nationwide reform (‘Title 107’) aiming to realize a mental health care system that fosters more intensive collaboration, strengthens the cohesion and integration across and between different services, and is more responsive to the support needs of all service users. Although persons with SUD were named as a prioritized target group, how this reform impacted the lives and recovery journeys of persons with SUD remains understudied. This study aims to investigate how persons with SUD, regardless of whether they have co-occurring mental health issues, experience the accessibility of mental health care in light of the ‘Title 107’ reform.

Methods

Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews with a heterogeneous sample of persons with SUD (n=52), recruited from five regional mental health networks in Belgium. In-depth interviews focused on experiences regarding (history of) substance use, accessibility of services and support needs, and were analyzed thematically.

Results

Five dynamic themes came to the fore: fragmentation of care and support, the importance of “really listening”, balancing between treatment-driven and person-centered support, the ambivalent role of peers, and the impact of stigma.

Discussion

Despite the ‘Title 107’ reform, persons with SUD still experience mental health care services as ‘islands in the stream’, pointing to several pressing priorities for future policy and practice development: breaking the vicious cycles of waiting times, organizing relational case management, tackling stigma and centralizing lived experiences, and fostering recovery-promoting collaboration.
Deep space observations of conditionally averaged global reflectance patterns
Authors: Kostinski Alexander , Marshak Alexander , Várnai Tamás
Published: July 2024

The Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) spacecraft drifts about the Lagrangian point ≈ 1.4 − 1.6 × 106 km from Earth, where its Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera (EPIC) observes the entire sunlit face of Earth every 1–2 h. In an attempt to detect “signals,” i.e., longer-term changes and semi-permanent features such as the ever-present ocean glitter, while suppressing geographic “noise,” in this study, we introduce temporally and conditionally averaged reflectance images, performed on a fixed grid of pixels and uniquely suited to the DSCOVR/EPIC observational circumstances. The resulting images (maps), averaged in time over months and conditioned on surface/cover type such as land, ocean, or clouds, show seasonal dependence literally at a glance, e.g., by an apparent extent of polar caps. Clear ocean-only aggregate maps feature central patches of ocean glitter, linking directly to surface roughness and, thereby, global winds. When combined with clouds, these blue planet “moving average” maps also serve as diagnostic tools for cloud retrieval algorithms. Land-only images convey the prominence of Earth’s deserts and the variable opacity of the atmosphere at different wavelengths. Insights into climate science and diagnostic and educational tools are likely to emerge from such average reflectance maps.
Synthetic data generation techniques for training deep acoustic siren identification networks
Authors: Damiano Stefano , Cramer Benjamin , Guntoro Andre , van Waterschoot Toon
Published: July 2024

Acoustic sensing has been widely exploited for the early detection of harmful situations in urban environments: in particular, several siren identification algorithms based on deep neural networks have been developed and have proven robust to the noisy and non-stationary urban acoustic scene. Although high classification accuracy can be achieved when training and evaluating on the same dataset, the cross-dataset performance of such models remains unexplored. To build robust models that generalize well to unseen data, large datasets that capture the diversity of the target sounds are needed, whose collection is generally expensive and time consuming. To overcome this limitation, in this work we investigate synthetic data generation techniques for training siren identification models. To obtain siren source signals, we either collect from public sources a small set of stationary, recorded siren sounds, or generate them synthetically. We then simulate source motion, acoustic propagation and Doppler effect, and finally combine the resulting signal with background noise. This way, we build two synthetic datasets used to train three different convolutional neural networks, then tested on real-world datasets unseen during training. We show that the proposed training strategy based on the use of recorded source signals and synthetic acoustic propagation performs best. In particular, this method leads to models that exhibit a better generalization ability, as compared to training and evaluating in a cross-dataset setting. Moreover, the proposed method loosens the data collection requirement and is entirely built using publicly available resources.
Detection of small targets in cucumber disease images through global information perception and feature fusion
Authors: Wang Xuewei , Liu Jun
Published: July 2024

The cucumber disease images obtained from natural environments often contain noise such as variations in lighting and soil conditions, which significantly impact the accuracy of disease recognition. Additionally, existing detection models require large memory footprints, making real-time cucumber disease detection challenging. To address the challenges associated with detecting small targets in cucumber disease images, this study presents an algorithm named CucumberDet, which integrates global information perception and feature fusion. Initially, we employ the Swin Transformer as the backbone network for RetinaNet to augment the primary network’s feature extraction capabilities, thus enhancing its ability to extract information globally. Subsequently, to strengthen the network’s detection capabilities, especially for remote and small targets, we introduce a highly effective Small Target Feature Fusion Module (SFFM) to meticulously integrate detailed data of small targets into shallow feature maps. Finally, to further refine the network’s capability to identify multi-scale targets and facilitate the flow of low-level feature information to high-level features, we introduce a novel Multi-level Feature Adaptive Fusion Module (MFAFM). Encouraging detection results are obtained across three distinct datasets, with experimental findings on a self-compiled cucumber disease image dataset revealing that our proposed algorithm improves detection accuracy by 6.8% compared to the original RetinaNet baseline network. The proposed model achieves an mAP of 92.5%, with a parameter count of 38.39 million and a frame per second (FPS) rate of 23.6, underscoring its superior performance in detecting small targets and demonstrating its effectiveness across various application scenarios.
Phytase-producing rhizobacteria enhance barley growth and phosphate nutrition
Authors: El Ifa Wided , Belgaroui Nibras , Sayahi Naima , Ghazala Imen , Hanin Moez
Published: July 2024

Phosphorus (P) is the second most important macro-element for plant growth, and its low availability in soil is a major obstacle to crop production. Inorganic phosphate (Pi) is the least available form in the soil, while organic phosphate (Po) is the most dominant one, up to 80% of which exists as inositol hexakisphosphate, also known as phytic acid (PA) that cannot be absorbed by plant roots unless hydrolyzed by microbial phytases. Similar to phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, many plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can play a relevant role in phosphate turnover. In our study, we screened a series of PGPR strains for phytase activities using PA as a sole source of P. Three strains (named C2, N4, and S10) with relatively high phytase activities ranging from 42.84 to 100.55 Units g−1 were selected for barley growth assays. When barley plants grown in poor sandy soil and irrigated with a PA-containing solution were inoculated with each of these PGPR isolates, a significant growth enhancement was observed. This positive effect was well illustrated by an increase in root growth, plant height, and chlorophyll contents. In addition, the inoculated barley plants accumulated significantly higher Pi contents in leaves and roots compared to non-inoculated plants. Finally, the expression of a number of high-affinity Pi transporter genes (PHT1.1, PHT1.4, PHT1.8, and PHT1.6) in inoculated barley plants was downregulated especially in roots, compared to non-inoculated plants. This difference is most likely due to the bacterial phytases that change the P availability in the rhizosphere. In summary, these three strains can improve barley growth under phosphate-limited conditions and should be considered in developing eco-friendly biofertilizers as an alternative to conventional P fertilizers.
Clinical and laboratory risk factors for pulmonary tuberculosis recurrence in three pooled Indian cohorts
Authors: Krishnan Sonya , Gupte Nikhil , Paradkar Mandar , Gupte Akshay , Naik Mrunmayi , Raskar Swapnil , Suryavanshi Nishi , Pradhan Neeta , Gaikwad Sanjay , Karyakarte Rajesh , Lokhande Rahul , Hanna Luke Elizabeth , Thiruvengadam Kannan , Padmapriyadarsini Chandrasekaran , Sahasrabudhe Tushar , Barthwal Madhusudan , Kakrani ArjunLal , Viswanathan Vijay , Kornfeld Hardy , Gupta Amita , Golub Jonathan E. , Mave Vidya
Published: July 2024

Some individuals with drug-susceptible pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) experience tuberculosis recurrence. To evaluate the incidence of and risk factors for recurrence following completion of antituberculosis therapy, we pooled data from three prospective observational Indian PTB cohorts with 1,164 individuals ≥14 years old included in our analysis. Ninety-five (8%) experienced recurrence, with an 8.5 cases/100 person-years recurrence incidence rate (95% confidence interval 6.9–10.3) and a median time to recurrence of 6 months. From multivariable logistic regression, month 2 culture positivity (aHR 2.06; 95% CI 1.17–3.63), body mass index (BMI) < 17 mg/kg2 (aHR 1.7; 95% CI 1.1–2.8), and male sex (aHR 1.92; 95% CI 1.05–3.51) were independent recurrence risk factors. Understanding risk factors for TB recurrence could enable clinicians to identify patients at risk for recurrence during antituberculosis therapy and may be used to alter patient care strategies, such as more frequent monitoring post-treatment for high-risk individuals.