bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association of psychological stress with metabolic syndrome and its components: cross-sectional and bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses
Authors: Li Cancan , Tao Tianqi , Tang Yanyan , Lu Huimin , Zhang Hongfeng , Li Huixin , Liu Xiuhua , Guan Weiping , Niu Yixuan
Published: December 2023

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of co-occurring conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, which include the conditions of hypertension, overweight or obesity, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. Psychological stress is gradually being taken seriously, stemming from the imbalance between environmental demands and individual perceptions. However, the potential causal relationship between psychological stress and MetS remains unclear.

Method

We conducted cross-sectional and bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to clarify the potential causal relationship of psychological stress with MetS and its components. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for potential confounders in the cross-sectional study of the Chinese population, including 4,933 individuals (70.1% men; mean age, 46.13 ± 8.25). Stratified analyses of sexual characteristics were also performed. Bidirectional MR analyses were further carried out to verify causality based on summary-level genome-wide association studies in the European population, using the main analysis of the inverse variance-weighted method.

Results

We found that higher psychological stress levels were cross-sectionally associated with an increased risk of hypertension in men (odds ratio (OR), 1.341; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.023–1.758; p = 0.034); moreover, higher levels of hypertension were cross-sectionally associated with an increased risk of psychological stress in men and the total population (men: OR, 1.545 (95% CI, 1.113–2.145); p = 0.009; total population: OR, 1.327 (95% CI, 1.025–1.718); p = 0.032). Genetically predicted hypertension was causally associated with a higher risk of psychological stress in the inverse-variance weighted MR model (OR, 2.386 (95% CI, 1.209–4.710); p = 0.012). However, there was no association between psychological stress and MetS or the other three risk factors (overweight or obesity, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia) in cross-sectional and MR analyses.

Conclusion

Although we did not observe an association between psychological stress and MetS, we found associations between psychological stress and hypertension both in cross-sectional and MR studies, which may have implications for targeting hypertension-related factors in interventions to improve mental and metabolic health. Further study is needed to confirm our findings.
Beta cell lipotoxicity in the development of type 2 diabetes: the need for species-specific understanding
Authors: Thomas Patricia , Gallagher Meurig T. , Da Silva Xavier Gabriela
Published: December 2023

The propensity to develop type 2 diabetes (T2D) is known to have both environmental and hereditary components. In those with a genetic predisposition to T2D, it is widely believed that elevated concentrations of circulatory long-chain fatty acids (LC-FFA) significantly contribute towards the demise of insulin-producing pancreatic β-cells – the fundamental feature of the development of T2D. Over 25 years of research support that LC-FFA are deleterious to β-cells, through a process termed lipotoxicity. However, the work underpinning the theory of β-cell lipotoxicity is mostly based on rodent studies. Doubts have been raised as to whether lipotoxicity also occurs in humans. In this review, we examine the evidence, both in vivo and in vitro, for the pathogenic effects of LC-FFA on β-cell viability and function in humans, highlighting key species differences. In this way, we aim to uncover the role of lipotoxicity in the human pathogenesis of T2D and motivate the need for species-specific understanding.
A reappraisal of transcriptional regulation by NR5A1 and beta-catenin in adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Lalli Enzo
Published: December 2023

Background

Overexpression of the transcription factor NR5A1 and constitutive activation of canonical Wnt signalling leading to nuclear translocation of beta-catenin are hallmarks of malignancy in adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). Based on the analysis of genomic profiles in H295R ACC cells, Mohan et al. (Cancer Res. 2023; 83: 2123-2141) recently suggested that a major determinant driving proliferation and differentiation in malignant ACC is the interaction of NR5A1 and beta-catenin on chromatin to regulate gene expression.

Methods

I reanalyzed the same set of data generated by Mohan et al. and other published data of knockdown-validated NR5A1 and beta-catenin target genes,

Results

Beta-catenin is mainly found in association to canonical T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF/LEF) motifs in genomic DNA. NR5A1 and beta-catenin regulate distinct target gene sets in ACC cells.

Conclusion

Overall, my analysis suggests a model where NR5A1 overexpression and beta-catenin activation principally act independently, rather than functionally interacting, to drive ACC malignancy.
Rank aggregation of independent genetic screen results highlights new strategies for adoptive cellular transfer therapy of cancer
Authors: Vianzon Vianca V. , Hanson Rylee M. , Garg Ishita , Joseph Gwenyth J. , Rogers Laura M.
Published: December 2023

Efficient intratumoral infiltration of adoptively transferred cells is a significant barrier to effectively treating solid tumors with adoptive cellular transfer (ACT) therapies. Our recent forward genetic, whole-genome screen identified T cell-intrinsic gene candidates that may improve tumor infiltration of T cells. Here, results are combined with five independent genetic screens using rank aggregation to improve rigor. This resulted in a combined total of 1,523 candidate genes – including 1,464 genes not currently being evaluated as therapeutic targets - that may improve tumor infiltration of T cells. Gene set enrichment analysis of a published human dataset shows that these gene candidates are differentially expressed in tumor infiltrating compared to circulating T cells, supporting translational potential. Importantly, adoptive transfer of T cells overexpressing gain-of-function candidates (AAK1ΔN125, SPRR1B, and EHHADH) into tumor-bearing mice resulted in increased T cell infiltration into tumors. These novel gene candidates may be considered as potential therapeutic candidates that can aid adoptive cellular therapy in improving T cell infiltration into solid tumors.
Higher antibody titres against Pseudogymnoascus destructans are associated with less white-nose syndrome skin lesions in Palearctic bats
Authors: Pikula Jiri , Brichta Jiri , Seidlova Veronika , Piacek Vladimir , Zukal Jan
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Serological tests can be used to test whether an animal has been exposed to an infectious agent, and whether its immune system has recognized and produced antibodies against it. Paired samples taken several weeks apart then document an ongoing infection and/or seroconversion.

Methods

In the absence of a commercial kit, we developed an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the fungus-specific antibodies for Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the agent of white-nose syndrome in bats.

Results and Discussion

Samples collected from European Myotis myotis (n=35) and Asian Myotis dasycneme (n=11) in their hibernacula at the end of the hibernation period displayed 100% seroprevalence of antibodies against P. destructans, demonstrating a high rate of exposure. Our results showed that the higher the titre of antibodies against P. destructans, the lower the infection intensity, suggesting that a degree of protection is provided by this arm of adaptive immunity in Palearctic bats. Moreover, P. destructans infection appears to be a seasonally self-limiting disease of Palearctic bats showing seroconversion as the WNS skin lesions heal in the early post-hibernation period.
A little bit of Sargassum goes a long way: seafloor observations of Sargassum fluitans and Sargassum natans in the Western Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Pries Ashley , Netburn Amanda N. , Batchelor Heidi , Hermanson Victoria R.
Published: December 2023

The North Atlantic Ocean features high seasonal productivity of the brown seaweed Sargassum, which floats on the ocean surface and accumulates in large numbers in the Sargasso Sea. Sargassum blooms can stretch from the west coast of Africa to the Gulf of Mexico, and have created the largest seaweed blooms ever observed. Sargassum blooms have increased in intensity in recent years, and can negatively impact coastal communities when they wash up onshore in large quantities and decay. While seaweed sinking from surface waters to the seafloor may be an important carbon sink by removing carbon from the atmosphere, the magnitude of carbon sequestration by Sargassum and other macroalgae remains poorly understood. Given the magnitude of Sargassum blooms in the North Atlantic, they may pose a significant mechanism for carbon sequestration in the deep sea, though direct observations are rare. In this study, we documented the presence and distribution of Sargassum seaweed on the seafloor using video from ten remotely operated vehicle dives conducted on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer. Locations included sites in the Gulf of Mexico, in the Caribbean Sea, and off the Southeastern United States. Sargassum was observed in numbers ranging from 0 to over 112 per dive, and a frequency of between 0-11.23 observations for every 100 meters of horizontal distance. These observations suggest that Sargassum does make its way to the deep sea in potentially significant amounts. Natural systems like Sargassum sinking could serve as natural laboratories for understanding and managing seaweed burial as a climate mitigation strategy. Long-term monitoring of the fate of sunken Sargassum on the seabed is needed in order to determine how much is ultimately sequestered rather than recycled back into the system. Such observations would inform the feasibility of Sargassum farming and/or facilitated sinking as potential carbon dioxide removal strategies.
Marine mudflat actinomycetes as a novel natural products source
Authors: Ryu Dohee , Hillman Prima F. , Akinniyi Ganiyu , Nam Sang-Jip , Yang Inho
Published: December 2023

A mudflat is a type of intertidal zone that is alternately affected by terrestrial and marine environments. We searched for examples of research related to the discovery of secondary metabolites in actinomycetes originating from mudflats. In total, we found 16 studies describing 42 natural products. The recognized bioactivities of the secondary metabolites were digested. We also performed a phylogenetic analysis of mudflat-derived actinomycetes. Most of the actinomycete strains belong to the genus Streptomyces. This review underscores mudflat as promising environment for discovering novel actinomycete strains that produce unique bioactive secondary metabolites. This highlights the imperative to explore this distinct environment for marine natural product research.
The millennial dynamics of malaria in the mediterranean basin: documenting Plasmodium spp. on the medieval island of Corsica
Authors: Boualam Mahmoud Abdelwadoud , Corbara Anne-Gaëlle , Aboudharam Gérard , Istria Daniel , Signoli Michel , Costedoat Caroline , Drancourt Michel , Pradines Bruno
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The lack of well-preserved material upon which to base the paleo-microbiological detection of Plasmodium parasites has prevented extensive documentation of past outbreaks of malaria in Europe. By trapping intact erythrocytes at the time of death, dental pulp has been shown to be a suitable tissue for documenting ancient intraerythrocytic pathogens such as Plasmodium parasites.

Methods

Total DNA and proteins extracted from 23 dental pulp specimens collected from individuals exhumed from the 9th to 13th century archaeological site in Mariana, Corsica, were analyzed using open-mind paleo-auto-immunohistochemistry and direct metagenomics, Plasmodium-targeting immunochromatography assays. All experiments incorporated appropriate negative controls.

Results

Paleo-auto-immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of parasites Plasmodium spp. in the dental pulp of nine teeth. A further immunochromatography assay identified the presence of at least one Plasmodium antigen in nine individuals. The nine teeth, for which the PfHRP-2 antigen specific of P. falciparum was detected, were also positive using paleo-autoimmunohistochemistry and metagenomics.

Conclusion

Dental pulp erythrocytes proved to be suitable for the direct paleomicrobiology documentation of malaria in nine individuals buried in medieval Corsica, in agreement with historical data. This provides additional information on the millennial dynamics of Plasmodium spp. in the Mediterranean basin.
MASLD and aspartame: are new studies in the horizon?
Authors: Sergi Consolato M.
Published: December 2023

Fatty liver disease has been on the rise in the past few decades, and there is no hope that it will stop. The terminology change that has been recently proposed may not be sufficient to advocate for a reduction of steatogenic foods and a change in lifestyle. A course change may be supported by the recent labeling of aspartame sweetener as a possible carcinogenic compound by the International Association for Research on Cancer (IARC), an agency of the World Health Organization (WHO). Aspartame sweeteners and other edulcorating molecular compounds besides colorings may trigger liver cancer other than fatty liver disease, despite limited data supporting it. An essential bias in human cohort studies is indeed the exclusion of all confounding factors, which may be barely impossible for human studies. In this perspective, we suggest that the activation of the NOD-like receptor-enclosing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and the stimulation of the tumor suppression gene TP53 may be critical in the progression from fatty liver to liver inflammation and liver cancer. Aspartame reduces a transcriptional coactivator, precisely the peroxisomal proliferator-initiated receptor-γ (gamma) coactivator 1-α (alpha) (or PGC1α). This coactivator upregulates mitochondrial bioformation, oxidative phosphorylation, respiratory capacity, and fatty acid β-oxidation. Aspartame acts in this way, probably through the activation of TP53. These events have been accountable for the variations in the lipid outline in serum and total lipid storage as well as for the impairment of gluconeogenesis in the liver, as supported by the downregulation of the gluconeogenic enzymes in experimental animals, and may be relevant in humans as well.
Differential microbial composition in parasitic vs. questing ticks based on 16S next-generation sequencing
Authors: Zhang Lin , Han Jing , Zhou Qi , He Zhen , Sun Shi-Wei , Li Rui , Li Rui-Shan , Zhang Wen-Kai , Wang Yu-Hua , Xu Lin-Li , Lu Zhen-Hua , Shao Zhong-Jun
Published: December 2023

Introduction

As tick-borne diseases rise to become the second most prevalent arthropod-transmitted disease globally, the increasing investigations focus on ticks correspondingly. Factors contributed to this increase include anthropogenic influences, changes in vertebrate faunal composition, social-recreational shifts, and climatic variation. Employing the 16S gene sequence method in next-generation sequencing (NGS) allows comprehensive pathogen identification in samples, facilitating the development of refined approaches to tick research omnidirectionally.

Methods

In our survey, we compared the microbial richness and biological diversity of ticks in Wuwei City, Gansu province, differentiating between questing ticks found in grass and parasitic ticks collected from sheep based on 16S NGS method.

Results

The results show Rickettsia, Coxiella, and Francisella were detected in all 50 Dermacentor nuttalli samples, suggesting that the co-infection may be linked to specific symbiotic bacteria in ticks. Our findings reveal significant differences in the composition and diversity of microorganisms, with the Friedmanniella and Bordetella genera existing more prevalent in parasitic ticks than in questing ticks (p < 0.05). Additionally, the network analysis demonstrates that the interactions among bacterial genera can be either promotive or inhibitive in ticks exhibiting different lifestyles with the correlation index |r| > 0.6. For instance, Francisella restrains the development of 10 other bacteria in parasitic ticks, whereas Phyllobacterium and Arthrobacter enhance colonization across all tick species.

Discussion

By leveraging NGS techniques, our study reveals a high degree of species and phylogenetic diversity within the tick microbiome. It further highlights the potential to investigate the interplay between bacterial genera in both parasitic and questing ticks residing in identical habitat environments.
Comparative untargeted and targeted metabonomics reveal discriminations in metabolite profiles between Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capripneumoniae and Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capricolum
Authors: Hao Huafang , Zhang Xiaoliang , Chen Shengli , Lan Shimei , Li Zhangcheng , Liu Shuang , Yan Xinmin , Gao Pengcheng , Chu Yuefeng
Published: December 2023

Background

Mycoplasmas are among the smallest prokaryotic microbes that can grow and proliferate on non-living media. They have reduced genomes, which may be associated with a concomitant reduction in their metabolic capacity. Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capripneumoniae (Mccp) and Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capricolum (Mcc), both belong to the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster, are significant important pathogenic Mycoplasma species in veterinary research field. They share high degree of genome homology but Mcc grows markedly faster and has higher growth titer than Mccp.

Methods

This study investigated the metabolites of these two pathogenic bacteria from the middle and late stages of the logarithmic growth phase through liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry–based metabolomics and targeted energy metabolomics. The multivariate analysis was conducted to identify significant differences between the two important Mycoplasma species.

Results

A total of 173 metabolites were identified. Of them, 33 and 34 metabolites involved in purine and pyrimidine, pyruvate metabolism, and amino acid synthesis were found to significantly differ in the middle and late stages, respectively. The abundance of fructose 1,6-bisphosphate, ADP, and pyruvate was higher in Mcc than in Mccp during the whole logarithmic period. Lactate was upregulated in slow-growing Mccp. The pH buffering agent N-[2-hydroxyethyl]piperazine-N′-[2-ethanesulfonic acid] added to media effectively prevented pH reduction and increase bacterial viability and protein biomass. The multivariate analysis revealed that the two Mycoplasma species significantly differed in glucose metabolism, growth factor transport and metabolism, cholesterol utilization, and environmental regulation.

Conclusion

The study data are beneficial for understanding the metabolomic characteristics of these two crucial Mycoplasma species and shedding more light on mycoplasma metabolism, and serve as a resource for the pathogenesis and development of related vaccines.
Resting state correlates of picture description informativeness in left vs. right hemisphere chronic stroke
Authors: Meier Erin L. , Sheppard Shannon M. , Sebastian Rajani , Berube Shauna , Goldberg Emily B. , Shea Jennifer , Stein Colin M. , Hillis Argye E.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Despite a growing emphasis on discourse processing in clinical neuroscience, relatively little is known about the neurobiology of discourse production impairments. Individuals with a history of left or right hemisphere stroke can exhibit difficulty with communicating meaningful discourse content, which implies both cerebral hemispheres play a role in this skill. However, the extent to which successful production of discourse content relies on network connections within domain-specific vs. domain-general networks in either hemisphere is unknown.

Methods

In this study, 45 individuals with a history of either left or right hemisphere stroke completed resting state fMRI and the Cookie Theft picture description task.

Results

Participants did not differ in the total number of content units or the percentage of interpretative content units they produced. Stroke survivors with left hemisphere damage produced significantly fewer content units per second than individuals with right hemisphere stroke. Intrinsic connectivity of the left language network was significantly weaker in the left compared to the right hemisphere stroke group for specific connections. Greater efficiency of communication of picture scene content was associated with stronger left but weaker right frontotemporal connectivity of the language network in patients with a history of left hemisphere (but not right hemisphere) stroke. No significant relationships were found between picture description measures and connectivity of the dorsal attention, default mode, or salience networks or with connections between language and other network regions.

Discussion

These findings add to prior behavioral studies of picture description skills in stroke survivors and provide insight into the role of the language network vs. other intrinsic networks during discourse production.
Laser interstitial thermal therapy is effective and safe for the treatment of brain tumors in NF1 patients after cerebral revascularization for moyamoya angiopathy: a report on two cases
Authors: Guida Lelio , Beccaria Kevin , Benichi Sandro , Kossorotof Manoelle , Naggara Olivier , Bourgeois Marie , Bourdeaut Franck , Abbou Samuel , Dangouloff-Ros Volodia , Boddaert Nathalie , Blauwblomme Thomas
Published: December 2023

Background

The co-occurrence of moyamoya vasculopathy and extra-optic pathway tumors is rare in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), with only four cases described in the literature. Brain surgery in these patients may be challenging because of the risk of brain infarction after skin and dural incision. Given its percutaneous and minimally invasive nature, laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is an ideal option for the treatment of brain tumors in these patients. Here, we report on two patients with NF1 and moyamoya syndrome (MMS) treated for a brain glioma with LITT, after cerebral revascularization.

Cases

The first patient, with familial NF1, underwent bilateral indirect revascularization with multiple burr holes (MBH) for symptomatic MMS. Two years later, she was diagnosed with a left temporal tumor, with evidence of radiologic progression over 10 months. The second patient, also with familial NF1, developed unilateral MMS when he was 6 years old and was treated with MBH. At the age of 15 years, MRI showed a right cingular lesion, growing on serial MRIs. Both patients underwent LITT with no perioperative complications; they are progression free at 10 and 12 months, respectively, and the tumors have decreased in volume.

Discussion

While the association of extra-optic neoplasm and moyamoya angiopathy is seldom reported in NF1, tumor treatment is challenging in terms of both avoiding stroke and achieving oncological control. Here, we show in 2 cases, that LITT could be a safe and effective option in these rare conditions.
The effect of general anesthesia and conscious sedation in endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke: an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Peng Zhi , Luo Wenmiao , Yan Zhengcun , Zhang Hengzhu
Published: December 2023

Objectives

General anesthesia (GA) and conscious sedation (CS) are common methods for endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, the risks and benefits of each strategy are unclear. This study aimed to summarize the latest RCTs and compare the postoperative effects of the two methods on EVT patients.

Materials and methods

We systematically searched the database for GA and CS in AIS patients during EVT. The retrieval time was from the creation of the database until March 2023. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Random-effects or fixed-effects meta-analyses were used to assess all outcomes.

Results

We preliminarily identified 304 studies, of which 8 were included. Based on the pooled estimates, there were no significant differences between the GA group and the CS group in terms of good functional outcomes (mRS0-2) and mortality rate at 3 months (RR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.95–1.24, p = 0.23) (RR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.75–1.22, p = 0.70) as well as in NHISS at 24 h after treatment (SMD = −0.01, 95% CI: −0.13 to 0.11, p = 0.89). However, the GA group had better outcomes in terms of achieving successful recanalization of the blood vessel (RR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.07–1.19, p < 0.0001). The RR value for the risk of hypotension was 1.87 (95% CI: 1.42–2.47, p < 0.00001); for pneumonia, RR was 1.43 (95% CI: 1.07–1.90, p = 0.01); and for symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, RR was 0.94 (95% CI: 0.74–1.26, p = 0.68). The pooled RR value for complications after intervention was 1.03 (95% CI, 0.87–1.22, p = 0.76).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing EVT for AIS, GA, and CS are associated with similar rates of functional independence. Further trials of a larger scale are needed to confirm these findings.
The impact of platelet indices on ischemic stroke: a Mendelian randomization study and mediation analysis
Authors: Li Yang , Xiang Wenping , Xue Hui , Meng Tianyu , Zhang Tianyou , Zhang Jinfeng , Wang Jingbo , Zhao Jili , Wang Baojun
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Platelet indices (PIs) are hematological parameters that indicate the number, morphology, and activation of platelets. Although some clinical trials suggest an association between PIs and the risk of stroke, the lack of robust evidence is attributed to confounding effects and reverse causation.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the association between PIs and stroke risk through Mendelian randomization (MR) while exploring the mediating effect of blood pressure in this association.

Methods

We identified genetic variants associated with PIs, including platelet count (PLT), platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet crit (PCT), in the UK Biobank (n = 350,474). Relevant genome-wide association studies were utilized to gather summary statistics pertaining to the traits of interest. We primarily used the inverse-variance weighted analysis to obtain estimates for individual causal power.

Result

We observed a positive correlation between genetically predicted increases in PCT levels with the stroke onset [PCT: OR (95%CI) = 1.113(1.047, 1.183), p < 0.001]. However, no significant causal relationship was found between PLT, PDW, and MPV and the risk of stroke [PLT: OR (95%CI) = 1.037(0.979, 1.098), p = 0.221; PDW: OR (95%CI) = 0.973(0.923, 1.024), p = 0.294; MPV: OR (95%CI) = 0.990(0.945, 1.038), p = 0.675]. Multivariable MR analyses and mediation analysis found that the proportion mediated by systolic blood pressure (SBP) is 23.71% [95%CI (10.85–33.31%)] and the proportion mediated by diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is 28.09% [95%CI (12.92–39.63%)].

Conclusion

This large MR study presents evidence for the potential causal relationship between the PCT level and the risk of ischemic stroke, which might be mediated by blood pressure.
Investigating pre-professional dancer health status and preventative health knowledge
Authors: Nicholas Joanna , Grafenauer Sara
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Dance is a highly demanding physical pursuit coupled with pressure to conform to aesthetic ideals. Assessment of health status and preventative health knowledge of pre-professional dancers may help inform educational strategies promoting dancers’ health and career longevity. The aim of this research was to establish a baseline understanding of dance students at a single pre-professional institution based on metrics focused on current health, nutrition, lifestyle, and wellbeing while also gauging knowledge of longer-term health implications.

Methods

Adopting a cross-sectional study design, the Dance-Specific Energy Availability Questionnaire was tailored for Australian participants and administered online.

Results

The response rate was 59.5% (69/116 eligible students) and the survey was completed in full by 63 students. Mean BMI was 20 kg/m2, although among females, 47% had a BMI < 20 (range 16 to 25 kg/m2), and at their lowest reported weight BMI was 14 to 25 kg/m2. Over a third had either experienced (31%) or were currently experiencing (3.4%) secondary amenorrhea (period absence ≥ 3 consecutive months). Most dancers did not exclude food groups, however, 24% had been advised to exclude particular foods in the past, mostly by dance teachers. A large percentage used nutritional supplements (68%) with 60% supplementing with iron and more than half (53%) taking two or more supplements. Only 25% had ever utilised a qualified dietitian, although 16% reported a history of eating disorders and 25% reported vegetarian or vegan eating patterns. REDs risk scores ranged from −16 to +16 points with negative scores indicating LEA and higher risk of REDs. The mean score for males was 5.2 (SD = 3.9) and 2.1 (SD = 5.9) for females, with 33.3% producing a negative score.

Conclusion

Results provide insight to health knowledge and particular issues pertinent for dancers and highlights the need for specific education strategies to promote a preventative health focus for those entering a pre-professional programme. This study also highlights the need for improved awareness of LEA and REDs among all practitioners working with dancers along with cultural and structural changes within the broader dance community to help protect and promote the wellbeing of dancers.
Neoadjuvant therapy in non-small cell lung cancer: basis, promise, and challenges
Authors: Kalvapudi Sukumar , Vedire Yeshwanth , Yendamuri Sai , Barbi Joseph
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Survival rates for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain poor despite the decade-long established standard of surgical resection and systemic adjuvant therapy. Realizing this, researchers are exploring novel therapeutic targets and deploying neoadjuvant therapies to predict and improve clinical and pathological outcomes in lung cancer patients. Neoadjuvant therapy is also increasingly being used to downstage disease to allow for resection with a curative intent. In this review, we aim to summarize the current and developing landscape of using neoadjuvant therapy in the management of NSCLC.

Methods

The PubMed.gov and the ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched on 15 January 2023, to identify published research studies and trials relevant to this review. One hundred and seven published articles and seventeen ongoing clinical trials were selected, and relevant findings and information was reviewed.

Results & Discussion

Neoadjuvant therapy, proven through clinical trials and meta-analyses, exhibits safety and efficacy comparable to or sometimes surpassing adjuvant therapy. By attacking micro-metastases early and reducing tumor burden, it allows for effective downstaging of disease, allowing for curative surgical resection attempts. Research into neoadjuvant therapy has necessitated the development of surrogate endpoints such as major pathologic response (MPR) and pathologic complete response (pCR) allowing for shorter duration clinical trials. Novel chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy agents are being tested at a furious rate, paving the way for a future of personalized systemic therapy in NSCLC. However, challenges remain that prevent further mainstream adoption of preoperative (Neoadjuvant) therapy. These include the risk of delaying curative surgical resection in scenarios of adverse events or treatment resistance. Also, the predictive value of surrogate markers of disease cure still needs robust verification. Finally, the body of published data is still limited compared to adjuvant therapy. Addressing these concerns with more large scale randomized controlled trials is needed.
Revolutionizing hysteroscopy outcomes: AI-powered uterine myoma diagnosis algorithm shortens operation time and reduces blood loss
Authors: Chen Minghuang , Kong Weiya , Li Bin , Tian Zongmei , Yin Cong , Zhang Meng , Pan Haixia , Bai Wenpei
Published: December 2023

Background

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) powered algorithm in clinical decision-making is globally popular among clinicians and medical scientists. In this research endeavor, we harnessed the capabilities of AI to enhance the precision of hysteroscopic myomectomy procedures.

Methods

Our multidisciplinary team developed a comprehensive suite of algorithms, rooted in deep learning technology, addressing myomas segmentation tasks. We assembled a cohort comprising 56 patients diagnosed with submucosal myomas, each of whom underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. Subsequently, half of the participants were randomly designated to undergo AI-augmented procedures. Our AI system exhibited remarkable proficiency in elucidating the precise spatial localization of submucosal myomas.

Results

The results of our study showcased a statistically significant reduction in both operative duration (41.32 ± 17.83 minutes vs. 32.11 ± 11.86 minutes, p=0.03) and intraoperative blood loss (10.00 (6.25-15.00) ml vs. 10.00 (5.00-15.00) ml, p=0.04) in procedures assisted by AI.

Conclusion

This work stands as a pioneering achievement, marking the inaugural deployment of an AI-powered diagnostic model in the domain of hysteroscopic surgery. Consequently, our findings substantiate the potential of AI-driven interventions within the field of gynecological surgery.
A bibliometric analysis of chemotherapy and pain in pediatric patients over the last decade
Authors: Huang Hua , Cai Guowei , Xiang Hongchun
Published: December 2023

Background

Chemotherapy is an important treatment for children with cancer, and chemotherapy-induced pain is an important role in affecting patients' quality of life. In our study, bibliometric analysis was used to identify current research hotspots and future research trends of chemotherapy and pain in children over the last decade. Our findings can provide a reference for the research in the field of chemotherapy and pain in children.

Method

Publications of chemotherapy and pain in children were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace was used to analyze publication characteristics from 2013 to 2022.

Results

We identified 1,130 eligible publications in the field of chemotherapy and pain in children, with an increasing trend of publications over the last decade. In the field of chemotherapy and pain in children, the United States had the most publication with 346, followed by China with 135. The author with the most published papers was Pamela S Hinds (n = 8) from the United States. The journals that published the most papers were the Journal of pediatric hematology oncology (n = 44) and Medicine (n = 44). The Journal of Clinical Oncology was cited the most frequency (n = 422). St. Jude Children's Research Hospital had the most publication (n = 23). The specific keywords related to the field of chemotherapy and pain in children were “children”, “chemotherapy”, “management”, “childhood cancer”, “randomized controlled trial” and “efficacy”. Emerging research focuses predominantly on symptomatic and supportive interventions for chemotherapy and pain in children.

Conclusion

Attention to chemotherapy and pain in children with cancer was insufficient. This bibliometric analysis showed the upward trend of chemotherapy and pain in children over the last decade. More studies are needed to improve the quality of life in children with chemotherapy-induced pain. This study may provide useful information to guide future research on chemotherapy and pain in children.
How we treat diarrhea in pediatric transplant patients: a brief review
Authors: Minniear Timothy Dean , Vora Surabhi
Published: December 2023

Diarrhea is a common problem faced by both hematopoietic and solid organ transplant recipients. The differential diagnosis is wide, ranging from infectious to non-infectious causes and from benign to emergent illness. Here we present two patients with diarrhea and discuss our approaches to the diagnostic evaluation and management of transplant recipients with diarrhea. We also include a review of the literature and discuss areas in need of further study.
Comparison of a novel tablet formulation of tacrolimus and conventional capsule formulation in de novo kidney transplant recipients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Zhenyu , Yin Kexin , Liu Huiqian , Wang Ning , Yao Junjie , Zhou Jiangtao , Tang Yongxi , Yin Zhikang
Published: December 2023

Background: The work aimed to compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles and other outcomes reported in observational studies in de novo kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) receiving novel once-daily extended-release tablet tacrolimus (LCPT; LCP-tacrolimus; Envarsus XR) or receiving standard-of-care capsule tacrolimus (PR-Tac; prolonged-release tacrolimus; Advagraf/IR-Tac; immediate-release tacrolimus; Prograf).

Methods: A systematic review was conducted for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies investigating the outcomes in KTRs receiving LCPT or PR-Tac/IR-Tac. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE, with no language restriction. The registered trials and references listed in relevant studies were also searched. Data were extracted for the PK profile, tacrolimus trough level (TTL), and changes in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum creatinine (Scr), biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR) rate, delayed graft function (DGF) rate, post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) rate, tremor rate (TR), death rate (DR), and rate of infection by cytomegalovirus (CMV). This study was registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42023403787).

Results: A total of seven eligible articles including 1,428 patients with 712 in the LCPT group versus 716 in the PR-Tac/IR-Tac group were included in this study for evidence synthesis. The baseline characteristics of the LCPT, PR-Tac, and IR-Tac groups were similar. The pooled analysis showed a higher PK profile in the LCPT group, and this result was consistent with those of all the included studies. In addition, no significant difference was observed for other outcomes.

Conclusion: Considering heterogeneity between studies and potential bias, care providers should select agents based on patient-specific factors and their clinical experience for the immunosuppressive treatment of de novo KTRs.
Flipped classroom in neurophysiology: performance analysis of a system focusing on intrinsic students’ motivation
Authors: Ganfornina Maria D. , Diez-Hermano Sergio , Sanchez Diego
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Teaching methodologies promoting active learning result in higher-order knowledge application, a desirable outcome in health disciplines like Physiology. Flipped-classroom (FC) promotes active learning and engagement in the classroom. Although specialized research keeps accumulating, the advantages of FC for improving academic outcome and ultimately patient care remain controversial and open to further analysis.

Objective: This study evaluates the benefits of applying FC to the Neurophysiology module of a Human Physiology course.

Methods:We compare final grades of students exposed to standard lecturing (five-years) vs. FC (six-years), and study the FC impact on student motivation, study time and rewards. Differing from conventional FC, we performed no pre-class/in-class assessments, relying on the students’ internal motivation to experience our FC model. A printed student workbook was designed as pre-class material for each session. Reading times respect the expected daily study time of students in our system.

Results and discussion: Concerning academic performance, our long-term study reports a significant increase in average scores for FC groups. Overall, students get better scores in multiple choice tests than in problem-solving questions. A more detailed analysis uncovers that our FC model helps students to obtain better scores, reducing variability in performance due to assessment methods. Based on our open-ended survey questions, most students rate the FC environment and in-class activities positively and perceive a positive effect of FC on teachers’ performance. An objective automatic Sentiment analysis of open-ended answers reveals that FC is positively appreciated by students, associating positive perceptions to their understanding of physiological concepts, and negative evaluations to their time management.
The low level of plastome differentiation observed in some lineages of Poales hinders molecular species identification
Authors: Krawczyk Katarzyna , Paukszto Łukasz , Maździarz Mateusz , Sawicki Jakub
Published: December 2023

Chloroplast genomes are a source of information successfully used in various fields of plant genetics, including molecular species identification. However, recent studies indicate an extremely low level of interspecific variability in the plastomes of some taxonomic groups of plants, including the genus Stipa L., which is a representative of the grass family. In this study we aimed to analyze the level of chloroplast genome diversity within particular genera as well as the effectiveness of identifying plant species in the Poaceae family and the other representatives of Poales order. Analysis of complete plastid genome alignments created for 96 genera comprising 793 species and 1707 specimens obtained from the GenBank database allowed defining and categorizing molecular diagnostic characters distinguishing the analyzed species from the other representatives of the genus. The results also demonstrate which species do not have any species-specific mutations, thereby they cannot be identified on the basis of differences between the complete chloroplast genomes. Our research showed a huge diversity of the analyzed species in terms of the number of molecular diagnostic characters and indicated which genera pose a particular challenge in terms of molecular species identification. The results show that a very low level of genetic diversity between plastomes is not uncommon in Poales. This is the first extensive research on super-barcoding that tests this method on a large data set and illustrates its effectiveness against the background of phylogenetic relationships.
Petunia as a model for MYB transcription factor action under salt stress
Authors: Zepeda Baltasar , Marcelis Leo F. M. , Kaiser Elias , Verdonk Julian C.
Published: December 2023

Salinity is a current and growing problem, affecting crops worldwide by reducing yields and product quality. Plants have different mechanisms to adapt to salinity; some crops are highly studied, and their salinity tolerance mechanisms are widely known. However, there are other crops with commercial importance that still need characterization of their molecular mechanisms. Usually, transcription factors are in charge of the regulation of complex processes such as the response to salinity. MYB-TFs are a family of transcription factors that regulate various processes in plant development, and both central and specialized metabolism. MYB-TFs have been studied extensively as mediators of specialized metabolism, and some are master regulators. The influence of MYB-TFs on highly orchestrated mechanisms, such as salinity tolerance, is an attractive research target. The versatility of petunia as a model species has allowed for advances to be made in multiple fields: metabolomic pathways, quality traits, stress resistance, and signal transduction. It has the potential to be the link between horticultural crops and lab models, making it useful in translating discoveries related to the MYB-TF pathways into other crops. We present a phylogenetic tree made with Petunia axillaris and Petunia inflata R2R3-MYB subfamily sequences, which could be used to find functional conservation between different species. This work could set the foundations to improve salinity resistance in other commercial crops in later studies.
Research on the influence of maker spirit on knowledge workers’ innovative behavior
Authors: Xue Quanxiang , Liu Can , Zhao Min , Jin Hui
Published: December 2023

Motivating the innovative behavior of knowledge workers with the “maker spirit” is important for enhancing innovation efficiency. Based on the unique “maker spirit” embodied in knowledge workers in Chinese, this study comprehensively considers elements of job crafting and superiors’ developmental feedback, and uses questionnaire survey method and mathematical statistical analysis method to explore the relationship between the maker spirit and the innovative behavior of knowledge workers in order to provide theoretical support for further promoting the development of social innovation. The results of the study show that the spirit of innovation, sharing, practice, and entrepreneurship in the maker spirit all have a positive contribution to innovative behavior; job crafting mediates between the spirit of innovation, sharing, practice, entrepreneurship, and innovative behavior; and superiors’ developmental feedback plays a positive moderating role between the spirit of innovation, sharing, practice, entrepreneurship, and job crafting.
The effect of tennis batting sound on anxiety: a randomized controlled trial and basic acoustic analysis
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhang Geng , Li Xiang , Pu Shihong
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To investigate the potential role of the unique sound of tennis in alleviating anxiety. Previous research has consistently shown that exercise can mitigate anxiety, primarily attributed to the impact of increased physical activity on hormonal and neurostructural changes. However, in daily life we find that one of the reasons people are drawn to tennis is its distinctive sound. In this study, we specifically examined the influence of this sound on anxiety.

Methods and results

In a randomized controlled experiment involving 96 participants reporting chronic anxiety (n1 = n2 = 48), we found that the control group exhibited an average reduction of 0.00156 in anxiety scores 4 weeks before and after the study. On the other hand, the experimental group, exposed to tennis stroke sound stimuli, showed an average reduction of 0.02896 in anxiety scores after 4 weeks, with some individuals even experiencing a decrease from anxiety to mild anxiety. Furthermore, the analysis of sound data revealed that the sound of tennis exhibited a pleasing timbre, with the primary sound frequencies ranging from 100 to 2,800 Hz. The rhythm of the sound had an average interval of approximately 1.758″ (± 0.41), corresponding to speed of approximately 93.6 km/h. The sound exhibited a steady rhythm, orderly variations in pitch, and a soothing timbre.

Conclusion

This study confirms that the sound of tennis alone contributes to anxiety relief, attributed to its suitable loudness, steady rhythm, and orderly variations in pitch, all of which align with human auditory characteristics. This indicates that a considerable portion of the anxiety-alleviating effects of tennis attributed to its comforting sound.