bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNAs signatures as potential molecular markers in mild cognitive impairment: a meta-analysis
Authors: Vargas-Rondón Natalia , González-Giraldo Yeimy , García Fonseca Ángela Y. , Gonzalez Janneth , Aristizabal-Pachon Andrés Felipe
Published: January 2025

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is characterized by a decline in cognitive functioning without significant interference in daily activities. Its high heterogeneity and elevated conversion rate to dementia pose challenges for accurate diagnosis and monitoring, highlighting the urgent need to identify methodologies focused on the early detection and intervention of MCI. Due to their biological characteristics, microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential candidates as non-invasive molecular markers for the identification and assessment of MCI progression. Therefore, in this study, we conducted a meta-analysis to identify the miRNAs commonly deregulated in MCI, focusing on expression profiles in plasma, serum, and extracellular vesicle samples. Our analysis identified eight upregulated miRNAs, including hsa-miR-149-3p, and four downregulated miRNAs, such as Let-7f-5p. Notably, hsa-miR-149-3p emerged as a central node in interaction networks, suggesting its crucial role in regulating cellular processes relevant to MCI. Additionally, pathway analysis revealed significant enrichment in biological processes associated with transcriptional regulation and neurodegeneration. Our results underscore the potential of circulating miRNAs as non-invasive molecular markers for MCI and open the possibility for new methodologies that enable more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. Validating the expression of miRNAs such as hsa-miR-149-3p and Let-7f-5p, along with identifying their functional role in the specific context of MCI, is essential to establish their biological relevance. This work contributes to the understanding of the miRNA profile in mild cognitive impairment using easily accessible samples, which could be useful for the development of various strategies aimed at preventing or delaying MCI in individuals at risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Deep reinforcement learning and robust SLAM based robotic control algorithm for self-driving path optimization
Authors: Khan Samiullah , Niaz Ashfaq , Yinke Dou , Shoukat Muhammad Usman , Nawaz Saqib Ali
Published: January 2025

A reward shaping deep deterministic policy gradient (RS-DDPG) and simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) path tracking algorithm is proposed to address the issues of low accuracy and poor robustness of target path tracking for robotic control during maneuver. RS-DDPG algorithm is based on deep reinforcement learning (DRL) and designs a reward function to optimize the parameters of DDPG to achieve the required tracking accuracy and stability. A visual SLAM algorithm based on semantic segmentation and geometric information is proposed to address the issues of poor robustness and susceptibility to interference from dynamic objects in dynamic scenes for SLAM based on visual sensors. Using the Apollo autonomous driving simulation platform, simulation experiments were conducted on the actual DDPG algorithm and the improved RS-DDPG path-tracking control algorithm. The research results indicate that the proposed RS-DDPG algorithm outperforms the DDPG algorithm in terms of path tracking accuracy and robustness. The results showed that it effectively improved the performance of visual SLAM systems in dynamic scenarios.
A portable EEG signal acquisition system and a limited-electrode channel classification network for SSVEP
Authors: Ma Yunxiao , Huang Jinming , Liu Chuan , Shi Meiyu
Published: January 2025

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have garnered significant research attention, yet their complexity has hindered widespread adoption in daily life. Most current electroencephalography (EEG) systems rely on wet electrodes and numerous electrodes to enhance signal quality, making them impractical for everyday use. Portable and wearable devices offer a promising solution, but the limited number of electrodes in specific regions can lead to missing channels and reduced BCI performance. To overcome these challenges and enable better integration of BCI systems with external devices, this study developed an EEG signal acquisition platform (Gaitech BCI) based on the Robot Operating System (ROS) using a 10-channel dry electrode EEG device. Additionally, a multi-scale channel attention selection network based on the Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) module (SEMSCS) is proposed to improve the classification performance of portable BCI devices with limited channels. Steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) data were collected using the developed BCI system to evaluate both the system and network performance. Offline data from ten subjects were analyzed using within-subject and cross-subject experiments, along with ablation studies. The results demonstrated that the SEMSCS model achieved better classification performance than the comparative reference model, even with a limited number of channels. Additionally, the implementation of online experiments offers a rational solution for controlling external devices via BCI.
Dysphagia in older adults with mild cognitive impairment and dementia through fluoroscopic study with barium swallow in a memory clinic
Authors: Martinez-Peña Georgina , Mimenza-Alvarado Alberto Jose , Aguilar-Navarro Sara Gloria
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Dysphagia and cognitive impairment are prevalent in older individuals. This study aimed to understand the characteristics of dysphagia through fluoroscopy in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a memory clinic in a tertiary hospital in Mexico City. A total of 158 patients were included, of whom 86 (54.4%) showed a risk of dysphagia, and 84 underwent barium swallow fluoroscopy.

Results

An association was observed between MCI and alteration in the oral phase (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.12, 0.92, p = 0.034). Compared to patients with dementia, patients with MCI showed greater alteration in protection against regurgitation (OR 3.19, 95% CI: 1.05 to 9.72, p = 0.042) and in the contraction of the laryngeal muscles (OR 3.54, 95% CI: 1.30 to 9.62, p = 0.013).

Discussion

Our findings highlight the altered phases of swallowing in patients with dementia. Additionally, we found a high prevalence of dysphagia in older adults with MCI, underscoring the importance of early detection and intervention.
Post-craniotomy intracranial pressure monitoring: a novel approach combining optic nerve sheath diameter ultrasonography and cervical-cerebral arterial ultrasound
Authors: Fu Zunfeng , Peng Lin , Guo Laicai , Hu Naixia , Zhu Yamin , Tang Shouxin , Lou Hongliang , Zhang Jiajun , Wang Chongqiang
Published: January 2025

Objective

Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), a common complication in traumatic brain injuries (TBI), can lead to optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) enlargement and flow spectrum changes from the internal carotid artery (ICA) to middle cerebral artery (MCA). This study will investigate the use of Cervical-Cerebral Arterial Ultrasound (CCAU) for non-invasive ICP assessment and evaluating the related indices’ clinical utility in TBI patients with decompressive craniotomy (DC).

Methods

ONSD and flow spectrum changes were measured within 24 h after DC in 106 patients via ultrasonic ONSD measurement and CCAU, simultaneously. Intracranial pressures were invasively monitored, using a microsensor or ventricular catheter as the gold standard. Patients were classified into two groups, namely the normal group and the elevated group, based on distinct intracranial pressure thresholds of 15 mmHg, 20 mmHg and 22 mmHg. Subsequently, Bland Altman plot used for evaluating agreement between estimate for ICP (ICPe) and invasive ICP (ICPi). Then, the correlation between ONSD, MCAPI (pulsatility index of MCA), PI-ratio (MCAPI/ICAPI), and ICPe was examined through linear regression analysis. Finally, receiver operator characteristic curves (ROC) were also analyzed for different indexes and their combinations (using logistic model).

Results

Significant differences were observed between the normal and elevated ICP groups with respect to ONSD, PI-ratio, MCAPI and MCAFVd (diastolic flow velocity of MCA) (p < 0.05). The correlation coefficients for the relationships between ONSD, PI ratio, FVdMCA, and PI with ICPi were 0.62, 0.33, 0.32 and 0.21, respectively, each demonstrating statistical significance (p < 0.05). Analysis of the ROC curves demonstrated that the area under the curve (AUC) for predicting elevated ICPi at thresholds of 15 mmHg, 20 mmHg, and 22 mmHg via combined ultrasonographic measurements of the PI ratio and ONSD was the largest, specifically 0.74 (95% CI: 0.65–0.82), 0.77 (95% CI: 0.69–0.85), and 0.79 (95% CI: 0.70–0.86), respectively.

Conclusion

Ultrasonographic measurements of ONSD, PI-ratio, MCAPI and MCAFVd demonstrate a moderate to low weak correlation with ICPi measurements. ICPe is not considered sufficiently precise for noninvasive accurate ICP assessment. The concurrent utilization of CCAU and ONSD measurements may offer superior accuracy for elevated ICP in TBI patients with DC, especially in specificity. Further research is imperative to validate these findings within a more extensive patient population.
Evaluating plasma biomarkers NfL, GFAP, GDF15, and FGF21 as indicators of disease severity in Charcot–Marie Tooth patients
Authors: Pretkalnina Dace , Kenina Elizabete , Gailite Linda , Rots Dmitrijs , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Kenina Viktorija
Published: January 2025

Background

Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT), a slowly advancing hereditary nerve disorder, presents a significant challenge in the medical field. Effective drugs for treatment are lacking, and we struggle to find sensitive markers to track the disease’s severity and progression. In this study, our objective was to investigate the levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL), glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP), fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) in individuals with CMT and to compare them to a control group. Our primary goal is to determine whether these biomarker levels are related to the severity of the disease.

Methods

Initially, 44 patients with CMT and 44 controls participated in this study. CMT diagnosis was approved by genetic testing. Disease severity was assessed through clinical evaluations using the CMT Neuropathy Score version 2 (CMTNSv2). NfL and GFAP concentrations were measured using Single molecule array, while FGF-21 and GDF-15 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

In the group of patients with CMT, the concentrations of GDF15, FGF21, NfL, and GFAP were significantly higher than in the control group (p < 0.05). NfL and GFAP levels were correlated with the CMTNSv2 score (rs = 0.46, p = 0.002; rs = 0.31, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Our study has provided confirmation that plasma concentrations of NfL, GFAP, GDF15, and FGF21 are significantly elevated in patients with CMT compared to controls. Furthermore, NfL and GFAP levels were correlated with the clinical severity of CMT. These findings suggest that NfL and GFAP can be reliable disease indicators in future research.
Effect of central sensitization on postoperative cognitive dysfunction in total knee arthroplasty patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Yang Qiqi , Li Chunning , Ye Min , Zhou Xinhua , Li Weiran , Li Fei
Published: January 2025

Background

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), impacting recovery and quality of life. This study aims to investigate central sensitization (CS) as an independent risk factor for POCD to improve preoperative screening and postoperative interventions.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 142 TKA patients from January 2020 to May 2024 across three hospitals. Data were collected at six time points: preoperatively (T0), intraoperatively (T1), and postoperatively on days 1 (T2), 3 (T3), 7 (T4), and 30 (T5). Patients were classified into CS (CSI ≥ 40) and non-CS (CSI < 40) groups according to Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) score. Cognitive function and POCD incidence were assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and knee recovery with the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Logistic regression was used to identified risk factors for POCD.

Results

The overall incidence of POCD at T5 was 19.72%, with a significantly higher rate in CS group (30.91%) compared to non-CS group (12.64%) (p = 0.008). MMSE scores declined significantly in both groups at T2 and T3 compared to T0 (p < 0.05), with CS group showing consistently lower scores than non-CS group at T2-T5 (p < 0.05). KOOS scores revealed that CS group had worse pain and quality of life scores at T0, T4, and T5 compared with non-CS group (p < 0.05). Logistic regression revealed that CS, cerebrovascular disease, intraoperative hemorrhage, and preoperative MMSE were associated with the risk of POCD (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

CS is a significant risk factor for POCD following TKA, adversely affecting recovery in terms of pain and quality of life. Prospective studies are warranted to validate findings and develop targeted interventions.
Correlation of intracranial and extracranial carotid atherosclerotic plaque characteristics with ischemic stroke recurrence: a high-resolution vessel wall imaging study
Authors: Shao Shengyu , Wang Tianle , Zhu Li , Gao Yin , Fan Xian , Lu Yu , Qian Chengqun , Zhang Manyu , Qian Jinhua
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the ability of the plaque characteristics of extracranial carotid and intracranial arteries to predict large atherosclerotic ischemic stroke recurrence via head and neck combined high-resolution vessel wall imaging (HR-VWI).

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 169 patients with large atherosclerotic ischemic stroke who underwent head and neck combined HR-VWI from April 2022 to May 2023. The baseline clinical data and atherosclerotic plaque characteristics of the intracranial and extracranial carotid arteries were collected, and the patients were followed up for 1 year, with the endpoint event defined as recurrent ischemic stroke. Clinical and imaging data were compared between the recurrent and nonrecurrent groups. Independent risk factors associated with stroke recurrence were assessed via multivariate Cox regression analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the relevant variables were also plotted, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to assess their ability to predict stroke recurrence. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were used to compare the probability of stroke recurrence.

Results

During the 12-month follow-up, stroke recurrence occurred in 35 of the 169 patients. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the total number of intracranial and extracranial carotid plaques (p = 0.010) and coexisting extracranial carotid plaques and intracranial significantly enhanced plaques (p = 0.047) were independent risk factors for recurrent ischemic stroke. The AUCs for predicting stroke recurrence were 0.787 and 0.710, respectively. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve revealed that the risk of stroke recurrence was significantly greater in patients whose total number of intracranial and extracranial carotid plaques was >4.5 than in patients whose total number of plaques was <4.5 (p < 0.001) and was significantly greater in patients with coexisting extracranial carotid plaques and intracranial significantly enhanced plaques than in patients without coexisting plaques (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A greater total number of intracranial and extracranial carotid plaques and the coexistence of extracranial carotid plaques and intracranially significantly enhanced plaques are independent risk factors associated with recurrent ischemic stroke. Head and neck combined HR-VWI may provide new indicators for the prediction of stroke recurrence, thus helping clinicians identify high-risk patients and target therapy to reduce the recurrence of ischemic events.
Oral medications for the treatment of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome; a systematic review of studies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Pierson Benjamin C. , Apilado Kyle , Franzos M. Alaric , Allard Rhonda , Mancuso James D. , Tribble David , Saunders David , Koehlmoos Tracey Perez
Published: January 2025

Background

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a complex form of dysautonomia that presents with abnormal autonomic reflexes upon standing, leading to symptoms such as lightheadedness, tachycardia, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought renewed attention to POTS due to its overlap with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). Studies have found that a substantial percentage of COVID-19 survivors exhibit symptoms resembling POTS, elevating POTS diagnoses to previously unseen levels. We systematically reviewed the literature for existing high-quality evidence on potential interventions.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed to identify studies of oral medications for the management of POTS. We searched for published manuscripts on the medical management of POTS through 6 April 2024 which met pre-specified inclusion criteria. We conducted quality appraisal and assessed risk of bias before extracting the data and performing synthesis to determine the current state of the evidence; particularly in the context of PASC.

Results

The study search and selection process identified 32 studies that met inclusion criteria, comprising randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and systematic reviews. Most included studies were judged to be of moderate to high quality, with largely low risk of bias. The most frequently studied medications were beta-blockers, ivabradine, and midodrine. Ivabradine and midodrine demonstrated the highest rate of symptomatic improvement, while beta-blockers showed the largest reduction in heart rate variability. Limited evidence was available for PASC-associated POTS, but findings suggest that treatments may have similar efficacy in both PASC and non-PASC cases.

Conclusion

Ivabradine, midodrine, and beta-blockers currently appear to be reasonable front-line choices in pharmacologic management of POTS (PASC associated and otherwise). Further RCTs that evaluate long term outcomes of medications are needed to further establish evidence based pharmacologic treatment approaches for POTS. Particular areas of inquiry include differential efficacy of recommended therapies based on POTS subtypes, and a need for treatments directly targeting the underlying autonomic nervous system dysfunction.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024505967, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=505967.
Power spectral analysis of voltage-gated channels in neurons
Authors: Magnani Christophe , Moore Lee E.
Published: January 2025

This article develops a fundamental insight into the behavior of neuronal membranes, focusing on their responses to stimuli measured with power spectra in the frequency domain. It explores the use of linear and nonlinear (quadratic sinusoidal analysis) approaches to characterize neuronal function. It further delves into the random theory of internal noise of biological neurons and the use of stochastic Markov models to investigate these fluctuations. The text also discusses the origin of conductance noise and compares different power spectra for interpreting this noise. Importantly, it introduces a novel sequential chemical state model, named p2, which is more general than the Hodgkin–Huxley formulation, so that the probability for an ion channel to be open does not imply exponentiation. In particular, it is demonstrated that the p2 (without exponentiation) and n4 (with exponentiation) models can produce similar neuronal responses. A striking relationship is also shown between fluctuation and quadratic power spectra, suggesting that voltage-dependent random mechanisms can have a significant impact on deterministic nonlinear responses, themselves known to have a crucial role in the generation of action potentials in biological neural networks.
Virtual environments as a novel and promising approach in (neuro)diagnosis and (neuro)therapy: a perspective on the example of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Sokołowska Ewa , Sokołowska Beata , Chrapusta Stanisław J. , Sulejczak Dorota
Published: January 2025

Over the last three decades, dynamically evolving research using novel technologies, including virtual environments (VEs), has presented promising solutions for neuroscience and neuropsychology. This article explores the known and potential benefits and drawbacks of employing modern technologies for diagnosing and treating developmental disorders, exemplified by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD’s complex nature is ideal for illustrating the advantages and disadvantages of the digital world. While VEs’ possibilities remain under-explored, they offer enhanced diagnostics and treatment options for ASD, augmenting traditional approaches. Unlike real-world obstacles primarily rooted in social challenges and overwhelming environments, these novel technologies provide unique compensatory opportunities for ASD-related deficits. From our perspective in addition to other recent work, digital technologies should be adapted to suit the specific needs of individuals with ASD.
Association between controlling nutritional status score and the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Lei , Tang Jian , Zhang Ningjun , Zhang Zhongnan , Wang Deqi , He Youfu
Published: January 2025

Background

Recent studies have reported growing evidence supporting applying the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. This investigation intended to ascertain the link between CONUT scores and the prognosis in the AMI population.

Methods

Multiple electronic databases, encompassing PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, were retrieved from the inception of the databases until July 20, 2024, to explore the link between CONUT scores and adverse clinical outcomes in individuals with AMI. Primary outcomes consisted of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and mortality, while secondary outcomes encompassed stroke, cardiac death, myocardial reinfarction, revascularization, ventricular arrhythmias, and atrioventricular block. A random-effects meta-analysis was executed, with CONUT scores treated as either categorical or continuous variables. Sensitivity analyses and Egger’s test were conducted to appraise the robustness of results and publication bias, respectively. Subgroup analyses were executed to account for various confounding factors. Moreover, the GRADE system was leveraged to appraise the quality of evidence for all outcomes.

Results

Fifteen studies were included in our analysis. The statistical analyses on both categorical and continuous variables unraveled that a high CONUT score was markedly linked to an elevated risk of MACE [categorical variable: odds ratio (OR) = 1.75, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.42–2.15; continuous variable: standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.78–1.26], mortality (categorical variable: OR = 2.08, 95% CI = 1.70–2.55; continuous variable: SMD = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.57–1.74), cardiac death (categorical variable: OR = 2.81, 95% CI = 1.67–4.73), myocardial reinfarction (categorical variable: OR = 2.21, 95% CI = 1.28–3.83), and atrioventricular block (categorical variable: OR = 5.21, 95% CI = 1.83–14.89) in AMI patients. However, no significant association was found between a high CONUT score and stroke (categorical variable: OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 0.98–2.35), revascularization (categorical variable: OR = 2.92, 95% CI = 0.58–14.79), and ventricular arrhythmias (categorical variable: OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 0.06–107.21).

Conclusion

The CONUT score may serve as a promising and cost-effective prognostic biomarker for individuals with AMI.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO: CRD42024574048.
Association between oxidative balance score and all-cause, CVD and respiratory-related mortality in the US older adults of asthma patients with diabetes
Authors: Liu Chang , Liang Dan , Xiang Guoan , Zhao Xuanbo , Xiao Kun , Xie Lixin
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aims to investigate the correlation between oxidative balance score (OBS) and all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and respiratory-related mortality within a cohort that includes older asthma patients with diabetes.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2001 to 2018, which included 611 participants, were analyzed. Mortality outcomes were determined by linking the data to National Death Index (NDI) records through December 31, 2019. Cox regression modeling was employed to examine the relationship between OBS and all-cause, CVD and respiratory-related mortality. Restricted cubic splines (RCS), subgroup analyses and interaction tests were also conducted in this study.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 78.96 months, there were 216 all-cause deaths and 57 CVD-related deaths. A significant negative association was found between the OBS and all-cause and CVD mortality. We did not observe OBS could reduce respiratory-related mortality in older asthma patients with diabetes. RCS analysis indicated a linear and inverse association between the OBS and all-cause and CVD mortality. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests indicated the negative association between OBS and CVD mortality was significantly influenced by alcohol consumption.

Conclusion

In this sample, higher OBS was associated with lower all-cause and CVD mortality risks. These findings stressed the importance of infection status in assessing oxidative balance’s impact on health.
Different surgical methods of hysterectomy for the management of endometrial cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Yuquan , Tan Qin , Chen Yingfan , Zhu Keyang , Pan Bin , Liu Bao , Ren Chunyan , Li Ganghui , Chen Cheng , Zhao Chengzhi
Published: January 2025

Background

Emerging surgical methods are utilized to treat endometrial cancer. The study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of four common surgical methods of hysterectomy.

Methods

We systematically searched the PubMed, Cochrane Library databases, Medline, EMBASE and Web of Science from their inception until April 30, 2024. We used hazard ratios (HR) for overall survival (OS) and disease-free (DFS), odds ratios (OR) for categorical outcomes, and mean differences (MD) for continuous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals. These were pooled in Bayesian network meta-analysis models. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used to illuminate the probability that each method would be the best for each outcome.

Results

Thirty studies comprising 13446 patients were included. Robotic hysterectomy (RH) retrieved fewer pelvic lymph nodes than open hysterectomy (OH). OH showed a significantly higher postoperative complication rate than laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) and RH. LH had a higher intraoperative complication rate than OH. According to SUCRA values, OH ranked the highest in the number of retrieved pelvic lymph nodes (0.89), intraoperative complications (0.73), and operative time (0.97). LH ranked the highest in DFS (0.81) and overall survival (OS) (0.87). RH ranked the highest in the postoperative complications (0.95). Laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) ranked the highest in number of retrieved para-aortic lymph nodes (0.72).

Conclusions

There are no significant differences among the four surgical methods in DFS or OS. The use of uterine manipulators does not affect prognosis. OH is the best method for shortening operative time, dissecting the pelvic lymph nodes and controlling intraoperative complications. LH and LAVH have an advantage in para-aortic lymph node dissection. Besides, LH has the best advantage in DFS and OS. RH has advantages in controlling surgical complications.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024529974.
The mechanism underlying metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer: focusing on the interplay between ferroptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and non-coding RNAs
Authors: Chen Ziyi , Zhao Yi
Published: January 2025

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a type of breast cancer with lack the expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). It is the most aggressive breast cancer and the most difficult to treat due to its poor response to treatments and extremely invasive characteristics. The typical treatment for TNBC frequently results in relapse because of the lack of particular treatment choices. It is urgent to focus on identifying a workable and effective target for the treatment of TNBC. Cancer metastasis is significantly influenced by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death form, and changes its key factor to affect the proliferation and metastasis of TNBC. Several reports have established associations between EMT and ferroptosis in TNBC metastasis. Furthermore, non-coding RNA (ncRNA), which has been previously described, can also control cancer cell death and metastasis. Thus, in this review, we summarize the correlation and pathways among the ferroptosis, EMT, and ncRNAs in TNBC metastasis. Also, aim to find out a novel strategy for TNBC treatment through the ncRNA-ferroptosis-EMT axis.
Adding capivasertib to fulvestrant in patients with hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer: a cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Lang Yitian , Chai Qingqing , Lin Yan , Wu Bin , Liu Xiaoyan
Published: January 2025

Objective

Capivasertib, a novel pan-AKT inhibitor, shows significant antitumor activity against hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer. However, its cost-effectiveness of this treatment remains uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of capivasertib plus fulvestrant versus fulvestrant alone for advanced breast cancer treatment from the perspectives of healthcare payers in the United States. Meanwhile, a experimental analysis from the perspective of China, incorporating specific assumptions, was also conducted in this study.

Methods

A partitioned survival model was constructed to project the progression of breast cancer. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) data were obtained from the CAPItello-291 trial and extrapolated for long-term survival estimates. Direct medical costs and utility data were gathered. The primary outcome measure was incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR) to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of treatment regimen. One-way sensitivity analyses (OWSA) and probabilistic sensitivity analyses (PSA) were conducted to assess the robustness of the results.

Results

The base-case analysis estimated the ICUR for capivasertib plus fulvestrant versus fulvestrant alone to be $709,647 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) in the US. OWSA revealed that the results were sensitive to hazard ratio of OS and the cost of capivasertib. PSA demonstrated that capivasertib plus fulvestrant exhibited a 0% probability of cost-effectiveness in the US.

Conclusion

Our finding suggests that, at its current price, capivasertib plus fulvestrant regimen is unlikely to be a cost-effective option compared to fulvestrant alone for HR-positive advanced breast cancer patients from the perspective of healthcare system in the US. For the experimental analysis based on specific assumptions from Chinese perspective, the therapy regimen was also found to lack cost-effectiveness.
Effect of prophylactic doses of enoxaparin on antifactor Xa activity confirmed by rotational thromboelastometry in critically ill patients: a preliminary prospective cohort study
Authors: Czempik Piotr F. , Beberok Artur
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Critically ill patients present multiple risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Underdosing of antithrombotic medications can result in VTE even as bleeding remains a significant concern for critically ill patients. On the other hand bleeding, remaining a significant concern for the critically ill, can be worsend by overdosing of antithrombotic medications. The present study aimed to assess the effects of prophylactic doses of enoxaparin on antifactor Xa activity (anti-Xa) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) parameters in critically ill patients.

Materials and methods

In this prospective single-center cohort study, the effects of enoxaparin were assessed via anti-Xa monitoring. Standard laboratory coagulation and ROTEM parameters were also determined using the same blood samples.

Results

A total of 61 patients (42.6% women) were enrolled in this study, whose median age was 59.0 (interquartile range: 43.0–70.0) years. Based on anti-Xa, the effects of enoxaparin were normal in 35 subjects (57.4%); in 17 patients (27.9%), the anti-Xa troughs and/or peaks were higher than the prophylactic range; in 9 patients (14.7%), the anti-Xa peak was lower than the prophylactic range. There were differences among the anti-Xa groups with respect to some ROTEM parameters. No VTE was detected among the study subjects. In 3 subjects (4.9%), there were signs of bleeding, and these patients presented with longer thrombin times.

Conclusion

Anti-Xa values may be within the prophylactic range in slightly more than half of the critically ill patients receiving enoxaparin at prophylactic doses. The dosing of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in critically ill patients may require individualization based on anti-Xa. Further studies are therefore required to establish a universal anti-Xa prophylactic range for LMWH, the timing of anti-Xa determination, and management of LMWH dosing.
Oxyresveratrol as a novel ferroptosis inducer exhibits anticancer activity against breast cancer via the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/GPX4 signalling axis
Authors: Xiang Lei , Li Qingzhou , Guan Zhiwei , Wang Guilin , Yu Xiankuo , Zhang Xianwen , Zhang Guochen , Hu Jushan , Yang Xue , Li Mingrui , Bao Xilinqiqige , Wang Yumei , Wang Dong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Oxyresveratrol (ORes) exhibits significant anticancer activity, particularly against breast cancer. However, its exact mechanism of action (MOA) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological activity and underlying MOA.

Methods

The inhibitory effect of ORes on breast cancer cell growth was confirmed, and the effective concentrations were determined for further experiments. Gene expression profiles (GEPs) were collected from MDA-MB-231 cells treated with ORes at varying concentrations using HTS2. Bioinformatics tools were used to predict the anticancer activity and MOA of ORes. Ferroptosis markers (ferrous ions, reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, and GPX4 expression) were assessed, and mitochondrial morphology was observed. The effect of ORes on tumour growth was evaluated in vivo, along with the analysis of ferroptosis in tissues. The MOA was explored using L1000, Drug Gene DataBase (DGDB), and Western blotting analyses.

Results

ORes significantly reduces breast cancer cell viability and proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 104.8 μM, 150.2 μM, and 143.6 μM in MDA-MB-231, BT-549, and 4T1 cells, respectively. GEPs induced by ORes were significantly enriched in the ferroptosis and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways. ORes inhibited breast cancer cell growth, increased intracellular ferrous ion levels, reactive oxygen species, and lipid peroxidation, and induced ferroptosis-related mitochondrial alterations. These effects were associated with decreased GPX4 expression and suppression of EGFR, phosphorylated PI3K, and phosphorylated AKT. ORes inhibited tumour growth, enhanced iron deposition, and reduced GPX4 expression in tumour tissues in vivo. Notably, treatment with the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (Ferr-1) attenuated the anticancer effects of ORes, confirming the pivotal role of ferroptosis in ORes-mediated breast cancer inhibition.

Conclusion

ORes inhibits breast cancer cell growth by inducing ferroptosis through suppression of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/GPX4 signalling axis. This study suggests that ORes holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for breast cancer and warrants further investigation into its clinical applications and potential integration into existing treatment regimens.
Exploring the dielectric properties of herbal medicine and modern pharmaceuticals: an integrative review
Authors: Khatri Vinita , Dey Prasanjit K.
Published: January 2025

The integration of herbal medicine with modern pharmaceuticals offers a novel approach to addressing complex healthcare challenges. This study investigates the role of dielectric spectroscopy in analysing key physicochemical properties such as solubility, stability, and molecular interactions. The findings reveal that combining herbal extracts with pharmaceutical agents enhances solubility and stability. It also reduces adverse effects, improving therapeutic efficacy. Dielectric spectroscopy is highlighted as a powerful analytical tool in this process. The study demonstrates how traditional herbal knowledge can be effectively linked with modern scientific methods. This approach enables the development of innovative therapeutic solutions that address safety and efficacy challenges. The results underline the potential of combining advanced analytical techniques with ethnopharmacological practices. This integration paves the way for the creation of safe, effective, and scientifically validated formulations for improved healthcare outcomes.
Estimation of Dendrocalamus giganteus leaf area index by combining multi-source remote sensing data and machine learning optimization model
Authors: Qin Zhen , Yang Huanfen , Shu Qingtai , Yu Jinge , Yang Zhengdao , Ma Xu , Duan Dandan
Published: January 2025

The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is an essential parameter that affects the exchange of energy and materials between the vegetative canopy and the surrounding environment. Estimating LAI using machine learning models with remote sensing data has become a prevalent method for large-scale LAI estimation. However, existing machine learning models have exhibited various flaws, hindering the accurate estimation of LAI. Thus, a new method for large-scale estimation of Dendrocalamus giganteus LAI was proposed, which integrates ICESat-2/ATLAS, and Sentinel-1/-2 data, and refines machine learning models through the application of Bayesian Optimization (BO), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Genetic Algorithms (GA), and Simulated Annealing (SA). First, spatial interpolation was performed using the Sequential Gaussian Conditional Simulation (SGCS) method. Then, multi-source remote sensing data were leveraged to optimize feature variables through the Pearson correlation coefficient approach. Subsequently, optimization algorithms were applied to Random Forest Regression (RFR), Gradient Boosting Regression Tree (GBRT), and Support Vector Machine Regression (SVR) models, leading to efficient large-scale LAI estimation. The results showed that the BO-GBRT model achieved high accuracy in LAI estimation, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.922, a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.263, a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.187, and an overall estimation accuracy (P1) of 92.38%. Compared to existing machine learning methods, the proposed approach demonstrated superior performance. This method holds significant potential for large-scale forest LAI inversion and can facilitate further research on other forest structure parameters.
Re-discover student engagement from the perspective of definition and influencing factors
Authors: Wang Qian
Published: January 2025

In recent, the topic of student engagement has received a great deal of academic attention. However, there are numerous definitions of student engagement. Will this lead to inaccuracies and ambiguities in future definitions of student engagement? Therefore, it is important to have a common understanding of student engagement. In this paper, I present three definitions of student engagement that have the potential to be widely accepted. Additionally, in order to study student engagement in more depth, it is crucial to focus factors that influence student engagement. In this paper, 30 articles from three databases, Google Scholar, Taylor & Francis Online, and SAGE, were screened for data analysis based on the inclusion criteria. Three influences were extracted from the included articles, namely student self-control, teacher empathy, and learning environment, which were analyzed as possible indirect influences. An interesting finding is that the learning environment may act as a direct influence. Meanwhile, in order to improve student engagement, this paper draws on Schneider and Ingram’s categorization of policy tools, e.g., authority, incentive, and capacity tools, then formulates a causal model of the influences on student engagement, as well as provides a number of interventions, and finally offers some insights.
Interactional practices accomplished by index-finger pointing directed at the addressee in Hebrew face-to-face interaction
Authors: Inbar Anna
Published: January 2025

This study uses Hebrew data to examine the practices accomplished by index-finger pointing toward the addressee, with a focus on interactional purposes beyond merely indexing the reference. The data were taken from the Haifa Multimodal Corpus of Spoken Hebrew, which consists of video recordings of naturally occurring casual conversations collected between 2016 and 2023. By employing the methodologies of interactional linguistics and multimodal conversation analysis, the study elaborates on the social actions that are accomplished via this gesture, showing that pointing at the addressee in Hebrew talk-in-interaction can be explained from different perspectives. The study suggests that non-referential pointing primarily serves as an attention-drawing device. However, similar to other gestural or verbal attention-drawing devices, in some contexts, the gesture can also be considered to be a cue whereby conveying a negative stance or displaying epistemic authority is recognized. Additionally, it can be employed as an abrupt way of interrupting or as an attempt to elicit a response from the addressee.
Improving sensory integration in Chinese children with moderate sensory integration challenges through engaging basketball training
Authors: Ge Sha , Guo Xuepeng , Jiang Bo Y. , Cordova Alberto , Guan Jianmin , Zhang John Q. , Yao Wan X.
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining basketball training with a traditional sensory integration therapy (SIT) vs. a SIT alone in enhancing sensory integration capability among Chinese children diagnosed with mild challenges in sensory integration and sensory processing (CSISP).

Methods

This study comprised a Control group and an Experimental group, both undergoing a 10-week intervention (4 sessions/week, 45 min/session). The Control group exclusively participated in traditional SIT for all sessions. In contrast, the Experimental group engaged in traditional SIT for two sessions per week and Basketball training for the remaining two sessions weekly. Three sensory integration measures (vestibular sensation, tactile perception, proprioception) and five gross motor performance measures (balance beam walking speed, single-leg standing with eyes closed, tennis ball throw, two-legged jump speed, 10-m shuttle run) were assessed before and after the 10-week training period. Separate 2 (Group) × 2 (Test Phases) Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures on the second factor were conducted for each measure. Interaction effects were further explored using Tukey's HSD test to clarify their nature.

Results

Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in all sensory integration and gross motor performance measures following the 10-week training sessions (p < 0.001). Importantly, the group receiving the combination of basketball training and traditional SIT significantly outperformed the group undergoing SIT alone in all assessed areas.

Conclusion

These results indicate that combining basketball training with traditional SIT enhances sensory integration capabilities more effectively among Chinese children aged 4–6 years with moderate CSISP compared to utilizing SIT alone.
Evidence for a shared cognitive mechanism underlying relative rhythmic and melodic perception
Authors: van der Aa Jeroen , Fitch W. Tecumseh
Published: January 2025

Musical melodies and rhythms are typically perceived in a relative manner: two melodies are considered “the same” even if one is shifted up or down in frequency, as long as the relationships among the notes are preserved. Similar principles apply to rhythms, which can be slowed down or sped up proportionally in time and still be considered the same pattern. We investigated whether humans perceiving rhythms and melodies may rely upon the same or similar mechanisms to achieve this relative perception. We looked at the effects of changing relative information on both rhythm and melody perception using a same-different paradigm. Our manipulations changed stimulus contour and/or added a referent in the form of either a metrical pulse (bass-drum beat) for rhythm stimuli, or a melodic drone for melody stimuli. We found that these manipulations had similar effects on performance across rhythmic and melodic stimuli. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing that the addition of a drone note has significant effects on melody perception, warranting further investigation. Overall, our results are consistent with the hypothesis that relative perception of rhythm and melody rely upon shared relative perception mechanisms, alongside domain specific mechanisms. Further work is needed to explore the specific nature of this relationship and to pinpoint the cognitive and neural mechanisms involved.
Psychometric assessment of the Beck anxiety inventory and key anxiety determinants among Ukrainian female refugees in the Czech Republic
Authors: Mazhak Iryna , Sudyn Danylo
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The full-scale Russian war has caused Ukrainian female refugees to experience many stressful events which may have an adverse impact on their mental health. Understanding the prevalence and determinants associated with anxiety is essential for psychosocial support. The study aimed: to evaluate the psychometric validity of the Ukrainian version of the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) among Ukrainian female refugees in the Czech Republic, to determine the prevalence of anxiety, and to identify key determinants for anxiety in this population.

Methods

Anxiety was measured by BAI, which was validated by applying confirmatory factor analysis. Linear regressions were run to understand associations between social, physical and mental health determinants and anxiety, adjusted by socio-demographics.

Results

The BAI had a high level of internal consistency. External consistency was confirmed through: structural validity via CFA, indicating that a four-factor model, including cognitive, autonomic, neuromotor, and panic factors, were the most appropriate for the Ukrainian version of BAI; and convergent validity, shown by significant correlations between the total scores of the BAI and coping strategies, perceived stress, depression as well as self-reported physical and mental health. The study revealed that more than half of the participants had moderate to concerning symptoms of anxiety. The analysis indicated that poor perceived health, ineffective coping strategies, high perceived stress, and hampered daily activities due to health issues, are significant predictors of increased anxiety. Conversely, positive or stable social relations with relatives, neighbors, and locals, and the absence of discrimination, were shown to be crucial in reducing anxiety levels.