bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accurate isolation and detection of circulating tumor cells using enrichment-free multiparametric high resolution imaging
Authors: Yeo Dannel , Kao Steven , Gupta Ruta , Wahlroos Sara , Bastian Althea , Strauss Heidi , Klemm Vera , Shrestha Prajwol , Ramirez Arturo B. , Costandy Lillian , Huston Ryan , Gardner Brady S. , Grimison Peter , Clark Jonathan R. , Rasko John E. J.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The reliable and accurate detection of rare circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from cancer patient blood samples promises advantages in both research and clinical applications. Numerous CTC detection methods have been explored that rely on either the physical properties of CTCs such as density, size, charge, and/or their antigen expression profiles. Multiple factors can influence CTC recovery including blood processing method and time to processing. This study aimed to examine the accuracy and sensitivity of an enrichment-free method of isolating leukocytes (AccuCyte® system) followed by immunofluorescence staining and high-resolution imaging (CyteFinder® instrument) to detect CTCs.

Method

Healthy human blood samples, spiked with cancer cells from cancer cell lines, as well as blood samples obtained from 4 subjects diagnosed with cancer (2 pancreatic, 1 thyroid, and 1 small cell lung) were processed using the AccuCyte-CyteFinder system to assess recovery rate, accuracy, and reliability over a range of processing times.

Results

The AccuCyte-CyteFinder system was highly accurate (95.0%) at identifying cancer cells in spiked-in samples (in 7.5 mL of blood), even at low spiked-in numbers of 5 cells with high sensitivity (90%). The AccuCyte-CyteFinder recovery rate (90.9%) was significantly higher compared to recovery rates obtained by density gradient centrifugation (20.0%) and red blood cell lysis (52.0%). Reliable and comparable recovery was observed in spiked-in samples and in clinical blood samples processed up to 72 hours post-collection. Reviewer analysis of images from spiked-in and clinical samples resulted in high concordance (R-squared value of 0.998 and 0.984 respectively).

Discussion

The AccuCyte-CyteFinder system is as an accurate, sensitive, and clinically practical method to detect and enumerate cancer cells. This system addresses some of the practical logistical challenges in incorporating CTCs as part of routine clinical care. This could facilitate the clinical use of CTCs in guiding precision, personalized medicine.
Molecular subtypes based on centrosome-related genes can predict prognosis and therapeutic responsiveness in patients with low-grade gliomas
Authors: Zhang Ganghua , Tai Panpan , Fang Jianing , Chen Aiyan , Chen Xinyu , Cao Ke
Published: March 2023

Background

Abnormalities in centrosome regulatory genes can induce chromosome instability, cell differentiation errors, and tumorigenesis. However, a limited number of comprehensive analyses of centrosome-related genes have been performed in low-grade gliomas (LGG).

Methods

LGG data were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases. The ConsensusClusterPlus” R package was used for unsupervised clustering. We constructed a centrosome-related genes (CRGs) signature using a random forest model, lasso Cox model, and multivariate Cox model, and quantified the centrosome-related risk score (centS). The prognostic prediction efficacy of centS was evaluated using a Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. Immune cell infiltration and genomic mutational landscapes were evaluated using the ESTIMATE algorithm, single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) algorithm, and “maftools” R package, respectively. Differences in clinical features, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation, 1p19q codeletion, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter (MGMTp) methylation, and response to antitumor therapy between the high- and low-centS groups were explored. “pRRophetic” R packages were used for temozolomide (TMZ) sensitivity analysis. qRT-PCR verified the differential expression of the centrosomal gene team, the core of which is CEP135, between LGG cells and normal cells.

Results

Two distinct CRG-based clusters were identified using consensus unsupervised clustering analysis. The prognosis, biological characteristics, and immune cell infiltration of the two clusters differed significantly. A well-performing centS signature was developed to predict the prognosis of patients with LGG based on 12 potential CRGs. We found that patients in the high-centS group showed poorer prognosis and lower proportion of IDH mutation and 1p19q codeletion compared to those in the low-centS group. Furthermore, patients in the high-centS group showed higher sensitivity to TMZ, higher tumor mutation burden, and immune cell infiltration. Finally, we identified a centrosomal gene team whose core was CEP135, and verified their differential expression between LGG cells and normal glial cells.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal a novel centrosome-related signature for predicting the prognosis and therapeutic responsiveness of patients with LGG. This may be helpful for the accurate clinical treatment of LGG.
Predictive value of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin in children with acute kidney injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zou Zhuan , Chen Bin , Tang Fajuan , Li Xihong , Xiao Dongqiong
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Neutrophil gelatin lipase carrier protein (NGAL) has been used as an early biomarker to predict acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the predictive value of NGAL in urine and blood in children with acute kidney injury in different backgrounds remains unclear. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the clinical value of NGAL in predicting AKI in children.

Methods

Computerized databases were searched for relevant the studies published through August 4th, 2022, which included PUBMED, EMBASE, COCHRANE and Web of science. The risk of bias of the original included studies was assessed by using the Quality Assessment of Studies for Diagnostic Accuracy (QUADA-2). At the same time, subgroup analysis of these data was carried out.

Results

Fifty-three studies were included in this meta-analysis, involving 5,049 patients, 1,861 of whom were AKI patients. The sensitivity and specificity of blood NGAL for predicting AKI were 0.79 (95% CI: 0.69–0.86) and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.75–0.91), respectively, and SROC was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.86–0.91). The sensitivity and specificity of urine NGAL for predicting AKI were 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78–0.87) and 0.81 (95% CI: 0.77–0.85), respectively, and SROC was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.86–0.91). Meanwhile, the sensitivity and specificity of overall NGAL (urine and blood NGAL) for predicting AKI in children were 0.82 (95% CI: 0.77–0.86) and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.78–0.86), respectively, and SROC was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.86–0.91).

Conclusion

NGAL is a valuable predictor for AKI in children under different backgrounds. There is no significant difference in the prediction accuracy between urine NGAL and blood NGAL, and there is also no significant difference in different measurement methods of NGAL. Hence, NGAL is a non-invasive option in clinical practice. Based on the current evidence, the accuracy of NGAL measurement is the best at 2 h after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and 24 h after birth in asphyxiated newborns.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42022360157.
Bacterial meningitis in children with an abnormal craniocerebral structure
Authors: Pan Jiali , Xu Wei , Song Wenliang , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2023

Background

We studied the causative pathogens, clinical characteristics, and outcome of bacterial meningitis in children with an abnormal craniocerebral structure.

Methods

A retrospective single-center study was conducted on children aged in the range of 29 days to 14 years by using data obtained from the pediatric intensive care unit in Shengjing Hospital between January 2014 and August 2021. All children were diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. They were divided into complex and simple groups by taking into account the presence of an abnormal craniocerebral structure before they contracted bacterial meningitis. We collected data on demographics, clinical presentations, laboratory results, imaging studies, treatments, and outcomes.

Results

A total of 207 patients were included in the study (46 in the complex group and 161 in the simple group). Patients in the complex group had a lower mortality rate (6.5% vs. 11.2%, p < 0.05), positive blood culture (13.0% vs. 34.8%; p < 0.05), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (0% vs. 9.3%; p < 0.05), and shock (2.2% vs. 9.3%; p = 0.11). These patients were more often detected with neurological sequelae (80.4% vs. 53.4%; p < 0.05), cerebrospinal fluid drainage (50% vs. 15.5%; p < 0.05), nosocomial infection (54.3% vs. 3.1%; p < 0.05), and multidrug-resistant bacteria (62.5% vs. 55.6%, p = 0.501). In patients in the simple group, infection was mostly confined to the nervous system.

Conclusion

Bacterial meningitis patients with an abnormal craniocerebral structure had fewer bloodstream infections, lower mortality rates, and higher incidence rates of neurological sequelae. Pathogens were more likely to be nosocomial and multidrug-resistant bacteria.
Bruceine a exerts antitumor effect against colon cancer by accumulating ROS and suppressing PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Zhang Chaozheng , Cao Yuening , Zuo Yi , Cheng Hongbin , Liu Changqun , Xia Xila , Ren Bo , Deng Yun , Wang Maolin , Lu Jun
Published: March 2023

Bruceine A (BA), a quassic ester from bruceine javanica, regulates diverse intracellular signal transduction pathways and manifests a variety of biological activities, however, its pharmacological mechanism in treating colon cancer (CC) is unclear. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of BA on CC cells and the underlying mechanisms. The network pharmacology research indicated that Akt1 and Jun and PI3K/Akt pathways are the predominant targets and critical signaling pathways, respectively, for BA treatment of CC. Meanwhile, molecular docking results implied that BA could conjugate to pivotal proteins in the PI3K/Akt pathway. BA remarkably suppressed the proliferation of CC cells HCT116 and CT26 with 48-h IC50 of 26.12 and 229.26 nM, respectively, and the expression of p-PI3K/p-Akt was restrained by BA at the molecular level as verified by Western blot assay. Further mechanistic studies revealed BA impacted cell cycle-related proteins by regulating the expression of P27 (a protein bridging the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway with cycle-related proteins), arresting the cell cycle in the G2 phase, inhibiting the proliferation of HCT116 and CT26, and facilitated the apoptosis in CC cells by activating the mitochondria-associated apoptosis protein Bax and accumulating reactive oxygen species, in addition to BA apparently inhibited the migration of CC cells. Taken together, our results demonstrated that BA might be a promising chemotherapy drug in the treatment of CC.
Applications of the invariant subspace method on searching explicit solutions to certain special-type non-linear evolution equations
Authors: Qu Gaizhu , Wang Mengmeng , Shen Shoufeng
Published: March 2023

We extend the invariant subspace method (ISM) to a class of Hamilton–Jacobi equations (HJEs) and a family of third-order time-fractional dispersive PDEs with the Caputo fractional derivative in this letter. More precisely, the complete classification is presented for such HJEs that admit invariant subspaces governed by solutions of the second-order and third-order linear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Meanwhile, some concrete equations are derived for the construction of new exact solutions u(x,t)=∑i=1nCi(t)fi(x). Then a set of invariant subspaces of the considered third-order time-fractional non-linear dispersive equations are obtained. Based on the Laplace transform method (LTM) and applying several properties of the well known Mitta-Leffer (ML) function, the different types of explicit solutions of a family of third-order time-fractional dispersive PDEs are finally derived.
Low carbohydrate high fat ketogenic diets on the exercise crossover point and glucose homeostasis
Authors: Noakes T. D. , Prins P. J. , Volek J. S. , D’Agostino D. P. , Koutnik A. P.
Published: March 2023

In exercise science, the crossover effect denotes that fat oxidation is the primary fuel at rest and during low-intensity exercise with a shift towards an increased reliance on carbohydrate oxidation at moderate to high exercise intensities. This model makes four predictions: First, >50% of energy comes from carbohydrate oxidation at ≥60% of maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), termed the crossover point. Second, each individual has a maximum fat oxidation capacity (FATMAX) at an exercise intensity lower than the crossover point. FATMAX values are typically 0.3–0.6 g/min. Third, fat oxidation is minimized during exercise ≥85%VO2max, making carbohydrates the predominant energetic substrate during high-intensity exercise, especially at >85%VO2max. Fourth, high-carbohydrate low-fat (HCLF) diets will produce superior exercise performancesviamaximizing pre-exercise storage of this predominant exercise substrate. In a series of recent publications evaluating the metabolic and performance effects of low-carbohydrate high-fat (LCHF/ketogenic) diet adaptations during exercise of different intensities, we provide findings that challenge this model and these four predictions. First, we show that adaptation to the LCHF diet shifts the crossover point to a higher %VO2max (>80%VO2max) than previously reported. Second, substantially higher FATMAX values (>1.5 g/min) can be measured in athletes adapted to the LCHF diet. Third, endurance athletes exercising at >85%VO2max, whilst performing 6 × 800 m running intervals, measured the highest rates of fat oxidation yet reported in humans. Peak fat oxidation rates measured at 86.4 ± 6.2%VO2max were 1.58 ± 0.33 g/min with 30% of subjects achieving >1.85 g/min. These studies challenge the prevailing doctrine that carbohydrates are the predominant oxidized fuel during high-intensity exercise. We recently found that 30% of middle-aged competitive athletes presented with pre-diabetic glycemic values while on an HCLF diet, which was reversed on LCHF. We speculate that these rapid changes between diet, insulin, glucose homeostasis, and fat oxidation might be linked by diet-induced changes in mitochondrial function and insulin action. Together, we demonstrate evidence that challenges the current crossover concept and demonstrate evidence that a LCHF diet may also reverse features of pre-diabetes and future metabolic disease risk, demonstrating the impact of dietary choice has extended beyond physical performance even in athletic populations.
Individual and combined effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and phytohormones on the growth and physiobiochemical characteristics of tea cutting seedlings
Authors: GAO Xiubing , LIU Yan , LIU Chunyan , GUO Can , ZHANG Yuan , MA Chiyu , DUAN Xueyi
Published: March 2023

Both arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and phytohormones collectively regulate plant growth and root development, but their individual and combined effects on tea [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze] cutting seedings remain unclear. This study examined the individual and combined effects of two species of AMF (Rhizophagus intraradices, RI and Funneliformis mosseae, FM) and two types of palnt hormones (strigolactones, SLs; polyamines, PAs) on tea cutting seedings, by evaluating the growth and physiobiochemical characteristics of plants treated with the AMFs and/or hormones. The results showed that inoculation with either AMF individually or hormones treatment alone could significantly enhanced mycorrhizal colonization, growth target and physiobiochemical characteristics of tea cutting seedlings. Interestingly, the addition of a combination of AMFs and hormones showed superior effects, while SL and RI exhibited the most improvements to the colonization rate, plant growth, root-morphological traits, root DHA activity, photosynthesis, chlorophyll content, soluble sugar content in leaves, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, and CAT), compared to other treatment combinations (SL + FM, PA + RI, and PA + FM). Correlation analyses revealed a significantly (p < 0.05) positive correlation of root AMF colonization with root-related traits (e.g., DHA, root total length, surface area, and volume) and leaf-related traits (e.g., leaf area, shoot biomass, total chlorophyll, and antioxidant enzyme activities). This study demonstrated that while the apllication of individual AMF or plant hormones had a certain good effects on most growth and physiobiochemical characteristics parameters of tea cutting seedings, the additive effect was from specific combined of AMF and plant hormones. These results highlight the possibility for combined of AMF and plant hormones to improve the asexual reproduction of tea plants via cuttings.
Associations between emotions and psychophysiological states and confirmation bias in question formulation in ongoing simulated investigative interviews of child sexual abuse
Authors: Segal Aleksandr , Bakaitytė Aistė , Kaniušonytė Goda , Ustinavičiūtė-Klenauskė Laura , Haginoya Shumpei , Zhang Yikang , Pompedda Francesco , Žukauskienė Rita , Santtila Pekka
Published: March 2023

Introduction

In forensic settings interviewers are advised to ask as many open-ended questions as possible. However, even experts may have difficulty following this advice potentially negatively impacting an investigation. Here, we sought to investigate how emotions and psychophysiological parameters are associated with question formulation in real time in an ongoing (simulated) child sexual abuse (CSA) interview.

Method

In a experimental study, psychology students (N = 60, Mage = 22.75) conducted two interviews with child avatars, while their emotions (anger, sadness, disgust, surprise and relief), GSR and heart rate (HR) were registered.

Results

First, we found that general emotionality related to CSA and perceived realness of the avatars was associated with stronger overall emotional reactions. Second, we found that closed (vs. open) questions were preceded by more facially observable anger, but not disgust, sadness, surprise or relief. Third, closed (vs. open) questions were preceded by higher GSR resistance and lower heart rate.

Discussion

Results suggest for the first time that emotions and psychophysiological states can drive confirmation bias in question formulation in real time in CSA.
On the self-regulation of sport practice: Moving the narrative from theory and assessment toward practice
Authors: Young Bradley W. , Wilson Stuart G. , Hoar Sharleen , Bain Lisa , Siekańska Malgorzata , Baker Joseph
Published: March 2023

This paper reviews theoretical developments specific to applied research around the “psychology of practice” in skill acquisition settings, which we argue is under-considered in applied sport psychology. Centered upon the Self-Regulation of Sport Practice Survey (SRSP), we explain how self-regulated learning conceptually underpins this survey and review recent data supporting its empirical validation for gauging athletes’ psychological processes in relation to sport practice. This paper alternates between a review of applied research on self-regulated sport practice and new data analyses to: (a) show how scores on the SRSP combine to determine an expert practice advantage and (b) illustrate the large scope of self-organized or athlete-led time to which SRSP processes may apply. At this stage, the SRSP has been established as a reliable and valid tool in the empirical, theoretical domain. In order to move the narrative from theory and assessment toward applied practice, we present evidence to propose that it has relevance as a dialogue tool for fostering meaningful discussions between athletes and sport psychology consultants. We review initial case study insights on how the SRSP could be located in consultation in professional practice, propose initial considerations for its practical use and invite practitioners to examine its utility in applied settings.
Reliability and validity of the problematic TikTok Use Scale among the general population
Authors: Günlü Aykut , Oral Tuncay , Yoo Soyoung , Chung Seockhoon
Published: March 2023

Introduction

This study aims to provide a scale for measuring problematic TikTok use levels by adapting items from the Instagram Addiction Scale.

Methods

The 372 participants were determined by a convenience sampling method, and data were collected through Google online forms. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were performed for construct validity and criterion-related validity analysis. Criterion-related validity for the Problematic TikTok Use Scale (PTTUS) was tested using correlation analysis between the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale and Social Media Use Disorder Scale.

Results

EFA indicated that a three-factor structure should be formed. The first factor is the sub-dimension of obsession and consists of 4 items, the second factor is the escapism sub-dimension and consists of 6 items, and the third factor is the lack of control sub-dimension and consists of 6 items. The model fit for adapting the PTTUS into Turkish was examined with first-level CFA, χ2/sd, RMSEA, CFI, GFI, AGFI, and SRMR, the obtained values show that the three-factor structure of the scale provides acceptable fit. Reliability analyses showed that Cronbach’s alpha internal consistency reliability coefficient ranged from 0.83 to 0.90; McDonald’s Omega reliability values was 0.84 to 0.90, and test–retest correlation coefficient ranged from 0.68 to 0.73, indicating sufficient internal consistency and test–retest reliability.

Conclusion

Based on this information, PTTUS is a measurement tool with sufficient psychometric properties that can be applied to determine individuals’ levels of problematic TikTok use.
Case series of drug-induced open bite: Extrapyramidal symptoms related to psychotropic medications
Authors: Watanabe Motoko , Tu Trang Thi Huyen , Takao Chihiro , Maeda Chizuko , Nayanar Gayatri Krishnakumar , Tominaga Risa , Kimura Yasuyuki , Takenoshita Miho , Yoshikawa Tatsuya , Sumi Koji , Sumi Satoko , Motomura Haruhiko , Nagamine Takahiko , Toyofuku Akira
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Drug-induced open bite is one of the extrapyramidal symptoms with abnormal tonus of muscles and is rarely recognized in dentistry. This is a retrospective case study to investigate clinical characteristics including detailed complaints in patients with drug-induced open bite.

Methods

Of the outpatients who first visited the psychosomatic dental clinic at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital between September 2013 and September 2022, the patients diagnosed with drug-induced open bite were involved in this study. The clinical characteristics including sex, age, detailed complaints, duration of illness, abnormal findings, psychotropic medications, and other medications that were taken at the first examination, psychiatric comorbidities, the duration of psychiatric diseases, and other medical histories were collected retrospectively by reviewing their medical chart.

Results

Drug-induced open bite was found in 11 patients [women: 7, men: 4, median of age: 49 (36.5, 53) years old]. Difficulty in eating especially chewing was the major complaint (9/11, 81.6%) with the duration of illness as 48.0 (16.5, 66) months. Various degrees of open bite were observed. While some showed no occlusal contact on frontal teeth, some showed occlusal contact only on the second molars; moreover, the jaw showed a horizontal slide in a few patients. Three cases could be followed up for prognosis; while in one case the drug-induced open bite improved with 6 months of follow-up, two cases did not improve, and one showed extrusion of molars. All of them had psychiatric comorbidities with the most common diagnosis being schizophrenia (n = 5) and depression (n = 5) followed by insomnia (n = 1) and autism spectrum disorder (n = 1) including duplicated diagnosis. Nine patients (81.6%) had been undergoing treatment with antipsychotics of which three patients were also taking antidepressants.

Discussion

Although a drug-induced open bite is a rare symptom, prudent medical interviews about symptoms, psychiatric comorbidities, and psychotropic medication history besides oral assessment are necessary to provide a precise diagnosis and appropriate management in collaboration between dentists and psychiatrists.
Psychometric properties of the generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) in a sample of workers
Authors: Merino-Soto César , Angulo-Ramos Marisol , Rovira-Millán Lillian V. , Rosario-Hernández Ernesto
Published: March 2023

Objective

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the GAD-7 by obtaining evidence of internal structure (dimensionality, precision and differential functioning of items) and association with external variables.

Methods

A total of 2,219 protocols from three different studies conducted with Puerto Rican employees that administered the GAD-7 were selected for the current study. Item response theory modeling was used to assess internal structure, and linear association with external variables.

Results

The items were adapted to a graduated response model, with high similarity in the discrimination and location parameters, as well as in the precision at the level of the items and in the total score. No violation of local independence and differential item functioning was detected. The association with convergent (work-related rumination) and divergent (work engagement, sex, and age) variables were theoretically consistent.

Conclusion

The GAD-7 is a psychometrically robust tool for detecting individual variability in symptoms of anxiety in workers.
Social Isolation Among Older Adults in the Time of COVID-19: A Gender Perspective
Authors: Silberzan Léna , Martin Claude , Bajos Nathalie ,   EpiCov Study Group
Published: March 2023

We aimed to analyze inequalities in social isolation among older adults in a time of COVID-19 social restrictions, using a gender perspective. A random population-based survey, including 21,543 older adults (65+) was conducted during and post COVID-19 lockdown in France. Our main outcome was a three-dimension indicator of social isolation based on living conditions, i.e., living alone (i) and not having gone out in the past week (ii), completed by an indicator measuring Internet use i.e., never using the Internet (iii). Logistic regressions were used to identify factors associated with isolation for women and men. Women were more likely to live alone (aOR = 2.72 [2.53; 2.92]), not to have gone out in the past week (aOR = 1.53 [1.39; 1.68]), and not to use the Internet (aOR = 1.30 [1.20; 1.44]). In addition to gender effects, being older, at the bottom of the social hierarchy, and from an ethno-racial minority was also associated with social isolation. Preventive policies should take into account these inequalities when addressing the issue of social isolation among older women and men, so as to enable all social groups to maintain social contacts, and access health information.
Association of educational attainment with esophageal cancer, Barrett's esophagus, and gastroesophageal reflux disease, and the mediating role of modifiable risk factors: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Xuening , Yang Xiaorong , Zhang Tongchao , Yin Xiaolin , Man Jinyu , Lu Ming
Published: March 2023

Background

Observational studies have reported that educational attainment has been related to the risk of esophageal cancer (EC) and its precancerous lesions. However, the causal relationship remains controversial. We aimed to apply the Mendelian randomization (MR) design to determine the causal associations between genetically predicted educational attainment and EC, Barrett's esophagus (BE), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and to explore whether modifiable risk factors play a mediating role.

Methods

Using summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWASs) based on European ancestry individuals of several years in education (EduYears, primary analysis, n = 293,723), college completion (College, secondary analysis, n = 95,427), EC (n = 420,531), BE (n = 361,194), and GERD (n = 420,531), genetic associations between two education phenotypes and EC, BE, and GERD were tested by two-sample MR analyses. Then, two-step MR mediation analyses were used to assess the proportion of the aforementioned association that might be mediated by body mass index (BMI), major depressive disorder (MDD), smoking, drinking, carbohydrates, fat, and protein intake.

Results

Genetically predicted EduYears was negatively associated with the risk of EC, BE, and GERD {odds ratio (OR), 0.64 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44–0.94], 0.86 (95% CI, 0.75–0.99), and 0.62 (95%CI, 0.58–0.67)}. EduYears was negatively associated with BMI, MDD, and smoking (range of OR: 0.76–0.84). There were positive associations between BMI, smoking with EC, BE, and GERD, as well as between MDD with GERD (range of OR: 1.08–1.50). For individual mediating effect, BMI and smoking mediated 15.75 and 14.15% of the EduYears-EC association and 15.46 and 16.85% of the EduYears-BE association. BMI, MDD, and smoking mediated 5.23, 4.98, and 4.49% of the EduYears-GERD association. For combined mediation, the aforementioned mediators explained 26.62, 28.38, and 11.48% of the effect of EduYears on EC, BE, and GERD. The mediating effects of drinking and dietary composition were not significant in the effect of education on EC, BE, and GERD.

Conclusion

Our study supports that genetically predicted higher educational attainment has a protective effect on EC, BE, and GERD, and is partly mediated by reducing adiposity, smoking, and depression.
Impacts of health expenditures and environmental degradation on health status—Disability-adjusted life years and infant mortality
Authors: Omri Anis , Kahouli Bassem , Kahia Montassar
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Human health and well-being are intimately related to environmental quality. In this respect, the present study contributes to the existing health economic literature by examining whether public and private health expenditures (PPHE) moderate the incidences of environmental degradation on the health status in Saudi Arabia, particularly disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and infant mortality.

Methods

Using the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) method.

Results and Discussion

The empirical results revealed that (i) unconditional positive impacts of CO2 emissions on increasing DALYs and infant mortality; (ii) conditional negative impacts of public health expenditures on DALYs and infant mortality in all the estimated models, whereas global and private expenditure contribute only on reducing infant mortality; (iii) public health expenditure is more effective than private health expenditure in reducing infant mortality; (iv) the effects of the interactions between the indicators of both health expenditures and CO2 emissions on DALYs and infant mortality are negative and significant only for the specifications relating to public health expenditures, indicating that this later could be employed as a policy or conditional variable that moderates the adverse impacts of carbon emissions on the population’s health status. Generally, the study presents an overview of environmental health change’s effects and examine how these effects may be reduced through increasing health spending. The study provides recommendations for addressing health status, health expenditures, and carbon emissions, all of which are directly or indirectly linked to the study.
Network analysis of affect, emotion regulation, psychological capital, and resilience among Chinese males during the late stage of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Guo Zhihua , Cui Yi , Yang Tianqi , Liu Xufeng , Lu Hongliang , Zhang Yinling , Zhu Xia
Published: March 2023

Background

Previous studies have confirmed that both affect and emotion regulation strategies are closely associated with psychological capital (PsyCap) and resilience. These factors are assumed to buffer the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, especially among males. However, these interactions have not been closely examined to date. To fill this gap, this paper explores the dimension-level relationships of these psychological constructs among Chinese males during the late stage of the COVID-19 pandemic and identified critical bridge dimensions using network analysis.

Methods

A total of 1,490 Chinese males aged 21–51 years completed self-report scales assessing emotion regulation strategies, affect, PsyCap, and psychological resilience. Two regularized partial correlation networks, namely the affect and emotion regulation-PsyCap network and the affect and emotion regulation-psychological resilience network, were then constructed to examine links between the dimensions of these constructs. The bridge expected influence (BEI) index was also calculated for each node to identify important bridge nodes.

Results

Positive affect, negative affect, cognitive reappraisal, and expressive suppression showed distinct and complex links to various dimensions of PsyCap or psychological resilience. In both networks, positive affect, cognitive reappraisal, and negative affect were identified as critical bridge nodes, with the first two having positive BEI values and the third having a negative value.

Conclusion

The findings elucidate the specific role of the dimensions of emotion regulation or affect in relation to PsyCap and psychological resilience, which facilitates further understanding of the mechanisms underlying these interrelationships. These findings also provide implications for developing effective intervention strategies to increase PsyCap and psychological resilience.
The embryo mosaicism profile of next-generation sequencing PGT-A in different clinical conditions and their associations
Authors: Heiser Hadassa Campos , Cagnin Natalia Fagundes , de Souza Mariane Uehara , Ali Taccyanna Mikulski , Estrada Paula Regina Queiroz , de Souza Camila Cristina Wuaquim Dantas , Coprerski Bruno , Rubio Carmen , Riboldi Marcia
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Uniform chromosome abnormalities are commonly seen in early pregnancy loss, with analyses of the product of conception suggesting the presence of mosaic autosomal trisomy in ∼10% of cases. Although chromosomal mosaicism occurs in a minority of embryos, their relative commonality and uncertainty regarding associated transfer outcomes have created discussion at both the clinical and research levels, highlighting the need to understand the clinical conditions associated with the incidence of embryo mosaicism.

Methods

We took advantage of a preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) database created from 2019 to 2022 in more than 160 in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics in Brazil, the second-largest world market for IVF. We carried out descriptive statistical and associative analyses to assess the proportions of mosaicism associated with clinical conditions and reported incidence by chromosome, clinic origin, and biopsy operator.

Results

Chromosomal analysis revealed that most mosaic aneuploidies occurred in the last three chromosomes, with 78.06% of cases having only one chromosome affected. Low mosaicism in trisomy represented the most ordinary form, followed by low mosaicism in monosomy. We identified associations between low (negatively-associated) and high mosaicism (positively-associated) and maternal age, indication (male factor and uterus/ovarian factor negatively associated with low and high mosaic, respectively), day of blastocyst development (day five has an overall better outcome), morphology grade (lower quality increased the chances of low and high mosaicism), origin (vitrified oocyte and embryo increased the rates of low and high mosaicism, respectively), and embryo sex (male embryos negatively associated with low mosaic).

Discussion

With these results, we hope to foster an improved understanding of the chromosomal mosaicism linked with distinct clinical conditions and their associations in Brazil.
Prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacterales in Africa's water-plant-food interface: A meta-analysis (2010–2022)
Authors: Richter Loandi , Du Plessis Erika M. , Duvenage Stacey , Korsten Lise
Published: March 2023

Background

Multidrug-resistant extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales is regarded as a critical health issue, yet, surveillance in the water-plant-food interface remains low, especially in Africa.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to elucidate the distribution and prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in clinically significant members of the Enterobacterales order isolated from the water-plant-food interface in Africa.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using six online databases according to the PRISMA guidelines. All available published studies involving phenotypic and genotypic characterization of ESBL-producing Enterobacterales from water, fresh produce or soil in Africa were considered eligible. Identification and characterization methods used as well as a network analysis according to the isolation source and publication year were summarized. Analysis of Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Klebsiella pneumoniae included the calculation of the multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index according to isolation sources and statistical analysis was performed using RStudio.

Results

Overall, 51 studies were included for further investigation. Twelve African countries were represented, with environmental AMR surveillance studies predominantly conducted in South Africa. In 76.47% of the studies, occurrence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria was investigated in irrigation water samples, while 50.98% of the studies included fresh produce samples. Analysis of bacterial phenotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles were reported in 94.12% of the studies, with the disk diffusion method predominantly used. When investigating the MAR indexes of the characterized Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella spp., from different sources (water, fresh produce or soil), no significant differences were seen across the countries. The only genetic determinant identified using PCR detection in all the studies was the blaCTX − M resistance gene. Only four studies used whole genome sequence analysis for molecular isolate characterization.

Discussion

Globally, AMR surveillance programmes recognize ESBL- and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales as vectors of great importance in AMR gene dissemination. However, in low- and middle-income countries, such as those in Africa, challenges to implementing effective and sustainable AMR surveillance programmes remain. This review emphasizes the need for improved surveillance, standardized methods and documentation of resistance gene dissemination across the farm-to-fork continuum in Africa.
A meta-analysis of deltoid ligament on ankle joint fracture combining deltoid ligament injury
Authors: Yang XiaoLing , Zeng Jianshuang , Yang Wei , Dela Rosa Ronnell D , Jiang Zhixia
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Ankle fracture combined with deltoid ligament (DL) injury results in decreased stability of ankle mortise, reduced contact surface between tibial and talus, increased local stress, and increased postoperative complications. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the postoperative effects of repairing ligaments in ankle fractures with DL rupture.

Methods

According to the steps of the Cochrane systematic review, the related literatures from PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library Databases were retrieved as of September 1, 2021, and all relevant randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies were collected. The evaluation indicators include medial clear space (MCS), visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), complications rate. Meta-analysis was conducted by RevMan® 5.3 provided by the Cochrane collaboration.

Results

A total of 388 patients (195 patients in the ligament repair group and 193 patients in the non-repair group) were included in 7 clinical trials. Meta-analysis data showed there were no statistically significant differences between the ligament repair group and non-repair group in final follow-up VAS, final AOFAS and postoperative MCS (P = 0.50, P = 0.04, P = 0.14, P = 0.14, respectively). Final follow-up MCS and complications rate in ligament repair group were smaller than those in the non-repair group and were statistically significant (P < 0.00001, P = 0.006, respectively).

Conclusion

Although there was no difference in in final follow-up VAS, final follow-up AOFAS and postoperative MCS between experimental group and control group, It's statistically significant in final follow-up MCS and complications rate. Ligament repair could reduce the width of MCS, restore ankle stability, reduce the incidence of complications and lead to a better prognosis.
Comprehensive analysis of microRNA and metabolic profiles in bovine seminal plasma of different semen quality
Authors: Cao Wei , Sun Wenqiang , Chen Shiyi , Jia Xianbo , Wang Jie , Lai Songjia
Published: March 2023

Background

Seminal plasma plays a pivotal role in modulating sperm viability and function. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated.

Method

In this study, the bull semen production records of core breeding farms and bull stations in the past 10 years were analyzed.

Results

We found that the semen of 5-year-old bulls collected for the first time is of the best quality (p < 0.05). Despite the bull semen collected under the above conditions, low-quality sperm is still obtained from part of bulls due to individual differences. Interestingly, seminal plasma from normal semen is capable of improving low-quality semen motility. To identify the potential key factors in seminal plasma, the differences in miRNA and metabolite profiles between normal and low-quality seminal plasma were analyzed. We found that 59 miRNAs were differently expressed, including 38 up-regulated and 21 down-regulated miRNAs. Three hundred and ninety-one and 327 significantly different metabolites were identified from the positive and negative ion models, respectively. These multiple miRNAs and metabolites collectively contribute to the motility of sperm, subsequently, affect semen quality.

Discussion

Together, these results not only revealed the critical factors of seminal plasma improving sperm quality but also provided potential miRNA- or metabolite-based biomarkers to identify the high semen quality.
Development of modern immunization agent against bovine papillomavirus type 1 infection based on BPV1 L1 recombinant protein
Authors: Vrablikova Alena , Brezani Veronika , Psikal Ivan , Fraiberk Martin , Sebela Marek , Fojtikova Martina , Kulich Pavel , Hezova Renata , Masek Josef
Published: March 2023

Bovine papillomavirus type 1 L1 protein was produced in a baculovirus expression system and purified as virus-like particles (VLPs) by affinity chromatography using lectins. The morphological integrity of VLPs was confirmed by electron microscopy. Differences between the two detected variants were deciphered by mass spectrometry of peptides (MALDI-TOF). Mice were immunized with purified VLPs in doses of 10, 25, or 50 μg in combination with 1% saponin and 15% alhydrogel per dose as adjuvants. Analysis of the humoral immune response revealed increased levels of specific antibodies detected 3 weeks after the first immunization in all groups of animals. This was further significantly increased by the booster applied 3 weeks after the first dose, with the best immune response in a group of mice immunized by the largest dose of antigen. BPV1 L1 VLPs purified by affinity chromatography using lectins could be used for prophylactic immunization in veterinary medicine.
Development of a data-driven method for assessing health and welfare in the most common livestock species in Switzerland: The Smart Animal Health project
Authors: Thomann Beat , Würbel Hanno , Kuntzer Thibault , Umstätter Christina , Wechsler Beat , Meylan Mireille , Schüpbach-Regula Gertraud
Published: March 2023

Improving animal health and welfare in livestock systems depends on reliable proxies for assessment and monitoring. The aim of this project was to develop a novel method that relies on animal-based indicators and data-driven metrics for assessing health and welfare at farm level for the most common livestock species in Switzerland. Method development followed a uniform multi-stage process for each species. Scientific literature was systematically reviewed to identify potential health and welfare indicators for cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and poultry. Suitable indicators were applied in the field and compared with outcomes of the Welfare Quality® scores of a given farm. To identify farms at risk for violations of animal welfare regulations, several agricultural and animal health databases were interconnected and various supervised machine-learning techniques were applied to model the status of farms. Literature reviews identified a variety of indicators, some of which are well established, while others lack reliability or practicability, or still need further validation. Data quality and availability strongly varied among animal species, with most data available for dairy cows and pigs. Data-based indicators were almost exclusively limited to the categories “Animal health” and “Husbandry and feeding”. The assessment of “Appropriate behavior” and “Freedom from pain, suffering, harm and anxiety” depended largely on indicators that had to be assessed and monitored on-farm. The different machine-learning techniques used to identify farms for risk-based animal welfare inspections reached similar classification performances with sensitivities above 80%. Features with the highest predictive weights were: Participation in federal ecological and animal welfare programs, farm demographics and farmers' notification discipline for animal movements. A common method with individual sets of indicators for each species was developed. The results show that, depending on data availability for the individual animal categories, models based on proxy data can achieve high correlations with animal health and welfare assessed on-farm. Nevertheless, for sufficient validity, a combination of data-based indicators and on-farm assessments is currently required. For a broad implementation of the methods, alternatives to extensive manual on-farm assessments are needed, whereby smart farming technologies have great potential to support the assessment if the specific monitoring goals are defined.
Nonlinear Robust Fault-Tolerant Tracking Control of a Tri-Rotor UAV against Actuator’s Abnormal Behavior
Authors: Ma Wenlai , Hu Minghua , Hao Wei , Wang Haijun , Wang Peiyu
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a new nonlinear robust fault-tolerant tracking control method is proposed for a tri-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) under unknown abnormal actuator behaviors together with unknown external disturbances. The actuator anomalies are modeled as time-varying multiplicative parameters to improve the model accuracy. The control system is decoupled into two parts, including the inner-loop attitude control and the outer-loop position control. The radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) is utilized in the outer loop to estimate the actuator anomalies and external disturbances, and then the state feedback controller is employed for the position tracking of the UAV. Then, the robust integral of the signum of the error (RISE) controller is designed for the inner loop to compensate for actuator anomalies and external disturbances. The composite stability of the closed-loop system and the asymptotical tracking performance are proved via a Lyapunov-based stability analysis. Numerical simulations based on the proposed fault tolerant control (FTC) scheme as well as the comparison results with a sliding mode-based FTC method validate the effectiveness and better performance of the proposed control design.