bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teachers’ role model behavior and the quality of the student–teacher relationship as prerequisites for students’ attitudes toward peers with learning difficulties
Authors: Löper Marwin Felix , Hellmich Frank
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The introduction of inclusive education in primary schools has raised many questions about the impact of teachers’ role model behavior on the social participation of students with learning difficulties. Based on the “theory of social referencing,” this study examines whether students’ attitudes toward peers with learning difficulties are predicted by perceptions of their teachers’ role model behavior and the quality of the student–teacher relationship in the classroom.

Methods

A questionnaire was completed by N = 753 primary school students regarding their perceptions of the student–teacher relationship, their attitudes toward peers with learning difficulties, and their perceptions of teacher behavior toward students with learning difficulties.

Results

The results of a structural equation model indicate that students’ attitudes toward peers with learning difficulties can be explained significantly by their perceptions of teacher behavior and their perceptions of the quality of the student–teacher relationship in the classroom. The effect of students’ perceptions of teacher behavior on their attitudes toward peers with learning difficulties is mediated by their perceptions of the student– teacher relationship. Thus, students focus more on teacher behavior when they perceive a positive student–teacher relationship.

Discussion

Our findings emphasize the importance of teachers’ role model behavior in inclusive classrooms and offer opportunities to enhance the social participation of students with learning difficulties in inclusive primary school education.
Diagnosis rates, therapeutic characteristics, lifestyle, and cancer screening habits of patients with diabetes mellitus in a highly deprived region in Hungary: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Pártos Kata , Major David , Dósa Norbert , Fazekas-Pongor Vince , Tabak Adam G. , Ungvári Zoltán , Horváth Ildikó , Barta Ildikó , Pozsgai Éva , Bodnár Tamás , Fehér Gergely , Lenkey Zsófia , Fekete Mónika , Springó Zsolt
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Low socioeconomic status affects not only diagnosis rates and therapy of patients with diabetes mellitus but also their health behavior. Our primary goal was to examine diagnosis rates and therapy of individuals with diabetes living in Ormánság, one of the most deprived areas in Hungary and Europe. Our secondary goal was to examine the differences in lifestyle factors and cancer screening participation of patients with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes compared to healthy participants.

Methods

Our study is a cross-sectional analysis using data from the “Ormánság Health Program”. The “Ormánság Health Program” was launched to improve the health of individuals in a deprived region of Hungary. Participants in the program were coded as diagnosed diabetes based on diagnosis by a physician as a part of the program, self-reported diabetes status, and self-reported prescription of antidiabetic medication. Undiagnosed diabetes was defined as elevated blood glucose levels without self-reported diabetes and antidiabetic prescription. Diagnosis and therapeutic characteristics were presented descriptively. To examine lifestyle factors and screening participation, patients with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes were compared to healthy participants using linear regression or multinomial logistic regression models adjusted for sex and age.

Results

Our study population consisted of 246 individuals, and 17.9% had either diagnosed (n=33) or undiagnosed (n=11) diabetes. Metformin was prescribed in 75.8% (n=25) of diagnosed cases and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2) in 12.1% (n=4) of diagnosed patients. After adjustment, participants with diagnosed diabetes had more comorbidities (adjusted [aOR]: 3.50, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.34–9.18, p<0.05), consumed vegetables more often (aOR: 2.49, 95% CI: 1.07–5.78, p<0.05), but desserts less often (aOR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15–0.75, p<0.01) than healthy individuals. Patients with undiagnosed diabetes were not different in this regard from healthy participants. No significant differences were observed for cancer screening participation between groups.

Conclusions

To increase recognition of diabetes, targeted screening tests should be implemented in deprived regions, even among individuals without any comorbidities. Our study also indicates that diagnosis of diabetes is not only important for the timely initiation of therapy, but it can also motivate individuals in deprived areas to lead a healthier lifestyle.
Giftedness and atypical sexual differentiation: enhanced perceptual functioning through estrogen deficiency instead of androgen excess
Authors: Sakaguchi Kikue , Tawata Shintaro
Published: May 2024

Syndromic autism spectrum conditions (ASC), such as Klinefelter syndrome, also manifest hypogonadism. Compared to the popular Extreme Male Brain theory, the Enhanced Perceptual Functioning model explains the connection between ASC, savant traits, and giftedness more seamlessly, and their co-emergence with atypical sexual differentiation. Overexcitability of primary sensory inputs generates a relative enhancement of local to global processing of stimuli, hindering the abstraction of communication signals, in contrast to the extraordinary local information processing skills in some individuals. Weaker inhibitory function through gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors and the atypicality of synapse formation lead to this difference, and the formation of unique neural circuits that process external information. Additionally, deficiency in monitoring inner sensory information leads to alexithymia (inability to distinguish one’s own emotions), which can be caused by hypoactivity of estrogen and oxytocin in the interoceptive neural circuits, comprising the anterior insular and cingulate gyri. These areas are also part of the Salience Network, which switches between the Central Executive Network for external tasks and the Default Mode Network for self-referential mind wandering. Exploring the possibility that estrogen deficiency since early development interrupts GABA shift, causing sensory processing atypicality, it helps to evaluate the co-occurrence of ASC with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and schizophrenia based on phenotypic and physiological bases. It also provides clues for understanding the common underpinnings of these neurodevelopmental disorders and gifted populations.
Tryptophan in the mouse diet is essential for embryo implantation and decidualization
Authors: Chen Si-Ting , Ran Feng , Shi Wen-Wen , Liu Cheng-Kan , Wang Peng-Chao , Luo Hui-Na , Yang Zeng-Ming
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Nutritional deficiency occurs frequently during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tryptophan (Trp), an essential amino acid which is critical for protein synthesis, serves as the precursor for serotonin, melatonin, and kynurenine (Kyn). The imbalance between serotonin and kynurenine pathways in Trp metabolism is closely related to inflammation and depression. This study assessed the effects of Trp deficiency on mouse early pregnancy.

Methods

Embryo implantation and decidualization were analyzed after female mice had been fed diets containing 0.2% Trp (for the control group), 0.062% Trp (for the low Trp group) and 0% Trp (for the Trp-free group) for two months. The uteri of the mice were collected on days 4, 5, and 8 of pregnancy for further analysis.

Results

On day 8 of pregnancy, the number of implantation sites were found to be similar between the control and the low Trp groups. However, no implantation sites were detected in the Trp-free group. On day 5 of pregnancy, plane polarity- and decidualization-related molecules showed abnormal expression pattern in the Trp-free group. On day 4 of pregnancy, there was no significant difference in uterine receptivity molecules between the low-Trp group and the control group, but uterine receptivity was abnormal in the Trp-free group. At implantation sites of the Trp-free group, IDO and AHR levels were markedly elevated. This potentially increased levels of Kyn, 2-hydroxy estradiol, and 4-hydroxy estradiol to affect decidualization.

Conclusions

Trp-free diet may impair decidualization via the IDO-KYN-AHR pathway.
Causal relationships between blood metabolites and diabetic retinopathy: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yang Chongchao , Ma Yan , Yao Mudi , Jiang Qin , Xue Jinsong
Published: May 2024

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a microvascular complication of diabetes, severely affecting patients’ vision and even leading to blindness. The development of DR is influenced by metabolic disturbance and genetic factors, including gene polymorphisms. The research aimed to uncover the causal relationships between blood metabolites and DR.

Methods

The two-sample mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was employed to estimate the causality of blood metabolites on DR. The genetic variables for exposure were obtained from the genome-wide association study (GWAS) dataset of 486 blood metabolites, while the genetic predictors for outcomes including all-stage DR (All DR), non-proliferative DR (NPDR) and proliferative DR (PDR) were derived from the FinnGen database. The primary analysis employed inverse variance weighted (IVW) method, and supplementary analyses were performed using MR-Egger, weighted median (WM), simple mode and weighted mode methods. Additionally, MR-Egger intercept test, Cochran’s Q test, and leave-one-out analysis were also conducted to guarantee the accuracy and robustness of the results. Subsequently, we replicated the MR analysis using three additional datasets from the FinnGen database and conducted a meta-analysis to determine blood metabolites associated with DR. Finally, reverse MR analysis and metabolic pathway analysis were performed.

Results

The study identified 13 blood metabolites associated with All DR, 9 blood metabolites associated with NPDR and 12 blood metabolites associated with PDR. In summary, a total of 21 blood metabolites were identified as having potential causal relationships with DR. Additionally, we identified 4 metabolic pathways that are related to DR.

Conclusion

The research revealed a number of blood metabolites and metabolic pathways that are causally associated with DR, which holds significant importance for screening and prevention of DR. However, it is noteworthy that these causal relationships should be validated in larger cohorts and experiments.
Regional differences for the impacts of ecosystem services on farmers’ wellbeing: a case study of the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Chen Wenting , Liu Di , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Different land use patterns affect access to ecosystem services as well as differences in farmers’ well-being.

Methods: The Loess Plateau, which has a fragile ecological environment, was chosen as the study region. On the one hand, information on the importance and accessibility of ESs, as well as the subjective and objective well-being of farmers, was obtained through semistructured interviews and questionnaires. On the other hand, regional differences for the impact of ESs on the well-being of farmers were explored based on a structural equation model.

Results: The results indicated that the impact of ESs on farmers’ well-being was crucial for all three village types, but the extent of the impact varied, and the key ESs varied across villages. For hilly villages and gully villages, crops and firewood were the two common ES types that were important. However, water conservation was the key ES type for farmers in hilly villages, and pest control was the key ES type for farmers in gully villages. Fruits, water conservation and recreation were the key ES types in the river villages.

Discussion: A focus on the regional differences for the impacts of ESs on farmers’ well-being is meaningful for policy practice. We can contribute to farmers’ well-being by optimising land use allocation and land ecological control to improve their ES access in different regions, which is effective in differentiating and enhancing the sustainability of different regions.
Nestedness of benthic diatom metacommunity in relation to species niche width and environmental variables in a large near-natural catchment
Authors: Qi Xinxin , Liu Guohao , Chen Chuanwu , Wang Yixia , Wang Yaochun , Lin Zongwei , Wu Naicheng
Published: May 2024

Insight into the non-random distribution patterns of species in different regions is a foundational aim of research in community ecology and biogeography. The nestedness pattern, which investigates changes in species composition and abundance, has been widely used in numerous studies. However, studies on the nestedness of benthic diatoms are extremely rare, and consequently little has been mentioned of their assemblage mechanisms. To fill this gap, based on 168 benthic diatom species from 147 sampling sites in the Thousand Island Lake (TIL) catchment, we calculated their nestedness and niche width with the aim of i) analyzing the nestedness of benthic diatoms communities with different attachment abilities in TIL; ii) calculating niche width differences between nested and idiosyncratic species with different attachment abilities; iii) investigating the differences in alpha and beta diversity between nested and idiosyncratic sites; iv) examining whether environmental variables influencing the nestedness of benthic diatom communities are dependent on attachment ability. The results demonstrated a significant nestedness pattern in the benthic diatom metacommunity, and the sampling sites of low attachment species not only exhibited a nestedness pattern, but also with a lower nestedness value compared to the sampling sites of all species. Nested and idiosyncratic species differed in niche width, whereas differences between nested and idiosyncratic species of low attachment species were smaller. Additionally, significant differences in alpha and beta diversity were observed between nested and idiosyncratic sites. Furthermore, it was revealed that the nestedness of benthic diatom metacommunity in our study area were mostly influenced by local environmental variables. Our study contributes to the understanding of the significant nestedness observed in benthic diatom metacommunity in TIL, highlighting its relevance to biodiversity conservation efforts.
A multidisciplinary approach to describe population structure of Solea solea in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Corti Rachele , Piazza Elisabetta , Armelloni Enrico Nicola , Ferrari Alice , Geffen Audrey J. , Maes Gregory E. , Masnadi Francesco , Savojardo Castrense , Scarcella Giuseppe , Stagioni Marco , Tinti Fausto , Zemella Alex , Cariani Alessia
Published: May 2024

Investigating marine species population structure in a multidisciplinary framework can reveal signatures of potential local adaptation and the consequences for management and conservation. In this study we delineate the population structure of common sole (Solea solea) in the Mediterranean Sea using genomic and otolith data, based on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) markers, otolith shape and otolith trace element composition data. We correlated SNPs with environmental and spatial variables to evaluate the impact of the selected features on the actual population structure. Specifically, we used a seascape genetics approach with redundancy (RDA) and genetic-environmental association (GEA) analysis to identify loci potentially involved in local adaptation. Finally, putative functional annotation was investigated to detect genes associated with the detected patterns of neutral and adaptive genetic variation. Results from both genetic and otolith data suggested significant divergence among putative populations of common sole, confirming a clear separation between the Western and Eastern Mediterranean Sea, as well as a distinct genetic cluster corresponding to the Adriatic Sea. Evidence of fine-scale population structure in the Western Mediterranean Sea was observed at outlier loci level and further differentiation in the Adriatic. Longitude and salinity variation accounted for most of the wide and fine spatial structure. The GEA detected significant associated outlier loci potentially involved in local adaptation processes under highly structured differentiation. In the RDA both spatial distribution and environmental features could partially explain the genetic structure. Our study not only indicates that separation among Mediterranean sole population is led primarily by neutral processes because of low connectivity due to spatial segregation and limited dispersal, but it also suggests the presence of local adaptation. These results should be taken into account to support and optimize the assessment of stock units, including a review and possible redefinition of fishery management units.
Optimization of preparation techniques for high-temperature resistant waterborne phenolic-epoxy resin emulsion under low carbon background
Authors: Lu Yu , Gu Jing , Yuan Jinhe , Wu Lina , Wang Xinxin , Xu Xiaofang , Ye Fuqiang , He Libin
Published: May 2024

In light of escalating global climate change concerns and the pressing need to address industries with high carbon emissions and pollution, enhancing the preparation of phenol-formaldehyde epoxy resins has emerged as a critical research focus. This study seeks to fabricate waterborne phenol-formaldehyde epoxy resins with superior performance by investigating pivotal factors influencing their properties and refining preparation methods. Utilizing tetrabutylammonium bromide as a phase transfer catalyst, the phenol-formaldehyde epoxy resins are synthesized via a two-step alkalization process. Subsequent etherification reactions involve modifying the phenol-formaldehyde epoxy resins using cationic modifier diethanolamine (DEA) and anionic modifier sodium p-amino benzenesulfonate, resulting in waterborne phenol-formaldehyde epoxy resins. Subsequently, in situ synthesis is employed to produce nanoscale silica (SiO2) modified waterborne phenol-formaldehyde epoxy resins. The findings reveal that when the ratio of n1 to n2 falls within the range of 1/3.25 to 1/3, the emulsion displays a moderate particle size and maintains stable storage. Furthermore, an increase in DEA dosage leads to a particle size of less than 324 nm when the ratio of n1 to n2 exceeds 1/3, indicating stability. Moreover, optimal stability and prolonged storage lifespan are achieved when the nano SiO2 content is approximately 1.5%. This study contributes by synthesizing high-quality waterborne phenol-formaldehyde epoxy resin emulsions through optimized methods. The research findings offer a theoretical foundation for this domain and support the practical application of low-carbon and environmentally friendly concepts in the coatings industry.
Exploration of new models for primary dysmenorrhea treatment: low-power visible-light-activated photodynamic therapy and oral contraceptives
Authors: Wang Yue , Chen Jie , Zhang Zhiyuan , Ding Xuesong , Gan Jingwen , Guo Yingying , Liang Wanqi , Wang Yanfang , Deng Yan , Sun Aijun
Published: May 2024

Background

Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is one of the most common reasons that affect the life quality of women during childbearing age. This research aims to explore the efficacy and curative effect characteristics of oral contraceptives and low-power visible-light-activated photodynamic therapy (PDT). Besides investigating the possible mechanism of PDT, we expected to find a treatment model with better efficacy and fewer side effects.

Method

It was a multicenter, randomized, parallel-controlled study. Eligible participants were randomly assigned to three groups: placebo group, oral contraceptive (Marvelon) group, and the PDT group. They were treated continuously for three menstrual cycles and followed up for two cycles after treatment. The scores of the visual analog scale (VAS) and the concentration of pain-related small molecules in blood before and after treatment were recorded in each group, which can evaluate the therapeutic characteristics of different treatments.

Result

Both Marvelon and PDT were effective. The effect of Marvelon appears quickly which can significantly relieve symptoms at the beginning, while PDT shows a relatively slow role. There was no significant difference in the final efficacy two cycles after treatment. The therapeutic effect was achieved by reducing the concentrations of prostaglandin 2 (PGE2) and endothelin (ET) in the blood.

Conclusion

Marvelon and PDT are effective methods for the treatment of PD. The long-term efficacy of the two is similar, while the therapeutic characteristics and the side effects are different. Patients can choose the suitable way according to their individual needs.
Improving drinking water quality through proficiency testing—the impact of testing method and accreditation status on Escherichia coli detection by Canadian environmental testing laboratories
Authors: Sreya Mahfuza , Alam Md Saiful , Daula Sahibjot , Lee Caleb , Restelli Veronica , Middlebrook Ken , Noble Michael A. , Perrone Lucy A.
Published: May 2024

Water quality testing is crucial for protecting public health, especially considering the number of boil water advisories annually issued across Canada that impact daily life for residents in affected areas. To overcome these challenges, the development of drinking water safety plans and accessibility to regular testing using simple, rapid, and accurate materials are necessary. However, the significance of monitoring the accuracy of environmental microbiology testing laboratories cannot be overlooked. Participation in external quality assessment programs, such as those that include proficiency testing (PT), is a necessary risk management resource that ensures the effectiveness of these testing processes. Proficiency Testing Canada (PTC), in collaboration with the Canadian Microbiological Proficiency Testing (CMPT) program based at the University of British Columbia, have implemented a drinking-water microbiology PT program since 1996. Both PTC and CMPT are ISO/IEC 17043:2010-accredited EQA providers. The drinking water program provided PT challenges to subscribing testing laboratories twice per year. Each challenge consisted of four samples containing unknown concentrations of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Enterobacter spp. Results from participants were assessed for accuracy based on the method of testing. This cross-sectional study evaluated 150 rural and metropolitan testing sites across Canada between 2016 and 2022. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the impact of different testing methods and laboratory accreditation status on the proficiency scores. This approach enabled us to assess the association between multiple independent variables and the likelihood of achieving specific proficiency scores, providing insights into how testing methods and accreditation status affect overall performance. After adjusting for rural residence, testing time, and survey year, the membrane filtration method was positively associated with the likelihood of scoring satisfactory results compared to the enzyme-substrate method (OR: 1.75; CI: 1.37–2.24), as well as accreditation status (OR: 1.47; CI: 1.16–1.85). The potential for improvement in environmental laboratory testing performance through the implementation of regulated PT in drinking water safety plans is proposed, along with the need for reliable testing methods applicable to rapid drinking water microbiology testing.
Deep learning-based classification of the capillary ultrastructure in human skeletal muscles
Authors: Bigler Marius Reto , Baum Oliver
Published: May 2024

Background

Capillary ultrastructure in human skeletal muscles is dynamic and prone to alterations in response to many stimuli, e.g., systemic pathologies such as diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension. Using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, several studies have been conducted to quantify the capillary ultrastructure by means of morphometry. Deep learning techniques like convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are utilized to extract data-driven characteristics and to recognize patterns. Hence, the aim of this study was to train a CNN to identify morphometric patterns that differ between capillaries in muscle biopsies of healthy participants and patients with systemic pathologies for the purpose of hypothesis generation.

Methods

In this retrospective study we used 1810 electron micrographs from human skeletal muscle capillaries derived from 70 study participants which were classified as “healthy” controls or “patients“ in dependence of the absence or presence of a documented history of diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension or peripheral arterial disease. Using these micrographs, a pre-trained open-access CNN (ResNet101) was trained to discriminate between micrographs of capillaries of the two groups. The CNN with the highest diagnostic accuracies during training were subsequently compared with manual quantitative analysis of the capillary ultrastructure to distinguish between “healthy” controls and patients.

Results

Using classification into controls or patients as allocation reference, receiver-operating-characteristics (ROC)-analysis of manually obtained BM thickness showed the best diagnostic accuracy of all morphometric indicators (area under the ROC-curve (AUC): 0.657 ± 0.050). The best performing CNN demonstrated a diagnostic accuracy of 79% (sensitivity 93%, specificity 92%). DeLong-Test of the ROC-curves showed a significant difference (p < 0.001) between the AUC of the best performing CNN and the BM thickness. The underlying morphology responsible for the network prediction focuses mainly on debridement of pericytes.

Conclusion

The hypothesis-generating approach using pretrained CNN distinguishes between capillaries depicted on electron micrographs of “healthy” controls and participants with a systemic pathology more accurately than by commonly used morphometric analysis.
Wearable sensor devices can automatically identify the ON-OFF status of patients with Parkinson's disease through an interpretable machine learning model
Authors: Wu Xiaolong , Ma Lin , Wei Penghu , Shan Yongzhi , Chan Piu , Wang Kailiang , Zhao Guoguang
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Accurately and objectively quantifying the clinical features of Parkinson's disease (PD) is crucial for assisting in diagnosis and guiding the formulation of treatment plans. Therefore, based on the data on multi-site motor features, this study aimed to develop an interpretable machine learning (ML) model for classifying the “OFF” and “ON” status of patients with PD, as well as to explore the motor features that are most associated with changes in clinical symptoms.

Methods

We employed a support vector machine with a recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) algorithm to select promising motion features. Subsequently, 12 ML models were constructed based on these features, and we identified the model with the best classification performance. Then, we used the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) and the Local Interpretable Model agnostic Explanations (LIME) methods to explain the model and rank the importance of those motor features.

Results

A total of 96 patients were finally included in this study. The naive Bayes (NB) model had the highest classification performance (AUC = 0.956; sensitivity = 0.8947, 95% CI 0.6686–0.9870; accuracy = 0.8421, 95% CI 0.6875–0.9398). Based on the NB model, we analyzed the importance of eight motor features toward the classification results using the SHAP algorithm. The Gait: range of motion (RoM) Shank left (L) (degrees) [Mean] might be the most important motor feature for all classification horizons.

Conclusion

The symptoms of PD could be objectively quantified. By utilizing suitable motor features to construct ML models, it became possible to intelligently identify whether patients with PD were in the “ON” or “OFF” status. The variations in these motor features were significantly correlated with improvement rates in patients' quality of life. In the future, they might act as objective digital biomarkers to elucidate the changes in symptoms observed in patients with PD and might be used to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with PD.
Behavioral and pharmacological characterization of planarian nociception
Authors: Reho Guillaume , Menger Yannick , Goumon Yannick , Lelièvre Vincent , Cadiou Hervé
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Pain mostly arises because specialized cells called nociceptors detect harmful or potentially harmful stimuli. In lower animals with less convoluted nervous system, these responses are believed to be purely nociceptive. Amongst invertebrate animal models, planarians are becoming popular in a wide range of pharmacological and behavioral studies beyond the field of regeneration. Recent publications led the way on pain studies by focusing on nociceptive behaviors such as the ‘scrunching’ gait displayed under various noxious stimuli, as opposed to the ‘gliding’ gait planarians usually adopt in normal conditions.

Methods

In this study, we adapted commonly used nociceptive tests to further explore nociception in planarians of the species Girardia dorotocephala. By using behavioral analysis in open fields and place preferences, we managed to set up chemical, thermal and mechanical nociceptive tests. We also adapted RNA interference protocols and explored the effects of knocking down TRPA1 ion channels, one of the main effectors of chemically and thermally-induced nociceptive responses in vertebrates.

Results

Consequently, we demonstrated the reliability of the scrunching gait in this planarian species, which they displayed in a dose-dependent manner when exposed to the irritant AITC. We also showed that suppressing the expression of TRPA1 ion channels completely suppressed the scrunching gait, demonstrating the involvement of TRPA1 nociceptors in this nociceptive reaction. Besides, we also explored the effects of two common analgesics that both displayed strong antinociceptive properties. First, morphine reduced the chemically-induced nociceptive scrunching gaits by more than 20% and shifted the EC50 of the dose–response curve by approximately 10 μM. Secondly, the NSAID meloxicam drastically reduced chemically-induced scrunching by up to 60% and reduced heat avoidance in place preference tests.

Discussion

Thus, we managed to characterize both behavioral and pharmacological aspects of G. dorotocephala’s nociception, further developing the use of planarians as a replacement model in pain studies and more globally the study of invertebrate nociception.
Causal associations between dietary factors and colorectal cancer risk: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wu Zhimeng , Wang Xiangrui , Xin Binglong , Hu Ping , Yin Yan , He Shuixiang , Ren Mudan
Published: May 2024

Background

Previous epidemiological studies have found a link between colorectal cancer (CRC) and human dietary habits. However, the inherent limitations and inevitable confounding factors of the observational studies may lead to the inaccurate and doubtful results. The causality of dietary factors to CRC remains elusive.

Methods

We conducted two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses utilizing the data sets from the IEU Open GWAS project. The exposure datasets included alcoholic drinks per week, processed meat intake, beef intake, poultry intake, oily fish intake, non-oily fish intake, lamb/mutton intake, pork intake, cheese intake, bread intake, tea intake, coffee intake, cooked vegetable intake, cereal intake, fresh fruit intake, salad/raw vegetable intake, and dried fruit intake. In our MR analyses, the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was employed as the primary analytical approach. The weighted median, MR-Egger, weighted mode, and simple mode were also applied to quality control. Heterogeneity and pleiotropic analyses were implemented to replenish the accuracy of the results.

Results

MR consequences revealed that alcoholic drinks per week [odds ratio (OR): 1.565, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.068–2.293, p = 0.022], non-oily fish intake (OR: 0.286; 95% CI: 0.095–0.860; p = 0.026), fresh fruit intake (OR: 0.513; 95% CI: 0.273–0.964; p = 0.038), cereal intake (OR: 0.435; 95% CI: 0.253–0.476; p = 0.003) and dried fruit intake (OR: 0.522; 95% CI: 0.311–0.875; p = 0.014) was causally correlated with the risk of CRC. No other significant relationships were obtained. The sensitivity analyses proposed the absence of heterogeneity or pleiotropy, demonstrating the reliability of the MR results.

Conclusion

This study indicated that alcoholic drinks were associated with an increased risk of CRC, while non-oily fish intake, fresh fruit intake, cereal intake, and dried fruit were associated with a decreased risk of CRC. This study also indicated that other dietary factors included in this research were not associated with CRC. The current study is the first to establish the link between comprehensive diet-related factors and CRC at the genetic level, offering novel clues for interpreting the genetic etiology of CRC and replenishing new perspectives for the clinical practice of gastrointestinal disease prevention.
Association between dietary supplement use and mortality in cancer survivors with different body mass index and frailty status: a cohort study
Authors: Zhang Mengqi , Wang Jia , Li Xiaoxuan , Zhang Lihua , Zhang Yixuan , Wen Zengjin , Zhang Jiaqi , Fan Yuchen , Qiu Zhenkang
Published: May 2024

Background

The association between Body Mass Index (BMI), frailty index (FI), and dietary supplement in cancer survivors has been a subject of growing interest. This study investigates the relationship of BMI and FI with mortality in American cancer survivors and explores the impact of dietary supplement usage on different BMI and FI groups.

Methods

Three thousand nine hundred and thirty-two cancer patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database were included in the analyses. BMI, FI, and supplement usage were obtained through the NHANES structured survey and the 49-item FI tool. Weighted logistic and Cox proportional hazards models, Kaplan–Meier survival analyses, and propensity score matching (PSM) were used to elucidate the relationships between BMI, FI, dietary supplement, and mortality outcomes.

Results

The study found significant associations between higher BMI and increased frailty (Odds ratio [OR] = 1.04, 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.02–1.06). BMI < 25 kg/m2 and FI > 0.2 are associated with an increased mortality rate. Dietary supplement use can reduce all-cause and cancer mortality in cancer patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (Hazard ratio [HR] = 0.63, 95% CI, 0.47–0.84; HR = 0.48, 95% CI, 0.29–0.80) or FI ≤ 0.2 (HR = 0.77, 95% CI, 0.60–0.99; HR = 0.59, 95% CI, 0.39–0.89). In cancer patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 and FI ≤ 0.2, dietary supplement users had lower all-cause and cancer mortality (HR = 0.49, 95% CI, 0.30–0.79; HR = 0.25, 95% CI, 0.10–0.60).

Conclusion

The study revealed a negative correlation between BMI and the FI among the cancer patient cohort as well as their complex impact on mortality and highlighted the role of dietary supplement in cancer prognosis, indicating benefits for non-frail patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2.
HO-SsNF: heap optimizer-based self-systematized neural fuzzy approach for cervical cancer classification using pap smear images
Authors: Shanmugam Ashok , KVN Kavitha , Radhabai Prianka Ramachandran , Natarajan Senthilnathan , Imoize Agbotiname Lucky , Ojo Stephen , Nathaniel Thomas I.
Published: May 2024

Cervical cancer is a significant concern for women, necessitating early detection and precise treatment. Conventional cytological methods often fall short in early diagnosis. The proposed innovative Heap Optimizer-based Self-Systematized Neural Fuzzy (HO-SsNF) method offers a viable solution. It utilizes HO-based segmentation, extracting features via Gray-Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) and Local Binary Pattern (LBP). The proposed SsNF-based classifier achieves an impressive 99.6% accuracy in classifying cervical cancer cells, using the Herlev Pap Smear database. Comparative analyses underscore its superiority, establishing it as a valuable tool for precise cervical cancer detection. This algorithm has been seamlessly integrated into cervical cancer diagnosis centers, accessible through smartphone applications, with minimal resource demands. The resulting insights provide a foundation for advancing cancer prevention methods.
Radiofrequency ablation with or without transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma meeting Milan criteria: a focus on tumor progression and recurrence patterns
Authors: Xie Yong , Lyu Tianshi , Guan Haitao , Cao Shoujin , Song Li , Tong Xiaoqiang , Zou Yinghua , Wang Jian
Published: May 2024

Background/objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate tumor progression and recurrence patterns of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with or without transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that meets Milan criteria.

Methods

This retrospective study included consecutive HCC patients meeting Milan criteria who underwent percutaneous RFA with or without TACE as initial treatment at a tertiary academic center between December 2017 and 2022. Technical success rate, local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), progression-free survival (PFS) and recurrence patterns were recorded.

Results

A total of 135 HCC patients (109 male [80.7%]) with a mean age of 62 years and 147 target lesions were retrospectively enrolled. The technical success rate was 99.3%. The median LRFS was 60 months, and the cumulative 1-, 3-, and 5-year LRFS were 88.9%, 70.1%, and 30.0%, respectively. Additionally, the median PFS was 23 months, with cumulative 1-, 3-, and 5-year PFS of 74%, 30%, and 0%, respectively. Multivariate analysis confirmed that age > 60, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) (> 10), and albumin were associated with PFS (2.34, p = 0.004; 1.96, p = 0.021; 0.94, p = 0.007, respectively). Six recurrence patterns were identified: local tumor progression (LTP) alone (n = 15, 25.0%), intrahepatic distant recurrence (IDR) alone (n = 34, 56.7%), extrahepatic recurrence (ER) alone (n = 2, 3.3%), IDR + ER (n = 2, 3.3%), LTP + IDR (n = 5, 8.8%), and LTP + IDR + ER (n = 2, 3.3%). IDR occurred most frequently as a sign of good local treatment.

Conclusions

RFA in combination with TACE does not appear to provide an advantage over RFA alone in improving tumor progression in patients with HCC meeting the Milan criteria. However, further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and to determine the optimal treatment approach for this patient population.
Effect of physical activity education on shoulder girdle pain and muscle strength in participants with fibromyalgia: a pilot experimental study
Authors: Couëpel Bastien , Daneau Catherine , Tremblay Mathieu , Javelot Thomas , Abboud Jacques , Pagé Isabelle , Descarreaux Martin
Published: May 2024

Background

In patients with fibromyalgia, exercise and education are recommended to decrease pain level and improve pain management. The latest scientific evidence recommends to focus interventions on the upper limb. The aim of this pilot study was to compare the immediate effect of physical activity education vs. a control group on pain and muscle capacity in fibromyalgia patients.

Method

Fifty-six participants with fibromyalgia were randomized into an experimental group and a control group. The intervention consisted in watching a five-minute video that provided information about fibromyalgia, pain, kinesiophobia and physical activity. The control group watched a neutral five-minute video about beavers in Quebec. Following the video, participants performed a muscular fatigue task consisting of a repeated unilateral shoulder abduction task. At baseline and following the muscular fatigue task, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) in shoulder abduction was assessed as well as pain level and pressure pain threshold (PPT) in the upper limb. Electromyographic activity was also assessed for upper trapezius and middle deltoid muscles. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare the MVC, PPT, and pain level before and after the muscular fatigue task between groups.

Results

The experimental group showed a significantly lower increase in pain than the control group in the middle deltoid muscle (p = 0.002) when assessed by verbal pain rating scale. No significant interaction or main effect of Group and Time were observed for the pain level at the upper trapezius and elbow extensor muscles nor for any of the PPT measures. According to electromyographic data, the median frequency values indicate that neither group experienced muscle fatigue during the repeated contraction task.

Conclusions

The preliminary results suggest that a short physical activity education video positively influenced middle deltoid pain following repeated abduction in participants with fibromyalgia. Electromyographic analysis showed no evidence of objective muscle fatigue, suggesting that there might be a partial disconnection between the perception of muscle fatigue and the physiological biomarkers associated with muscle fatigue.
A case report of pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum: an extraordinary finding of subsystemic right ventricle
Authors: Luo Gang , Liu Ai , Sun Hongxiao , Wang Kuiliang , Pan Silin
Published: May 2024

Background

Massive tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is the most common feature of pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (PA/IVS), and mild or absent TR is observed in severe right ventricular (RV) dysplasia or RV-to-coronary fistulous connections, resulting in non-biventricular (BV) outcomes postnatally.

Case summary

We report a case of fetal severe pulmonary stenosis with IVS diagnosed at 26 weeks of gestation. The severity of RV hypoplasia did not worsen or reach indications for intrauterine intervention, while the jet velocity of TR decreased significantly during pregnancy. The fetus was definitely diagnosed with PA/IVS with mild RV dysplasia after birth. Unusually, the fetus did not experience severe TR and myocardial sinusoids, the TR jet velocity was maintained at 2.0 m/s, and the coronary artery was almost normal. The incapable RV cannot pump blood into pulmonary circulation after RV decompression from valvular perforation and balloon dilation. It may be an extraordinary finding of subsystemic RV.

Conclusion

PA/IVS is a heterogeneous disease with various degrees of RV dysplasia. Mild or no baseline TR is a reliable indicator with non-BV outcomes for fetal PA/IVS, even with acceptable dysplasia RV structures.
Point-of-care ultrasound in early diagnosis and monitoring of deep abscess in newborns: a case report of two cases
Authors: Du Bang , Xu Fengdan , Deng Biying , Zhong Baimao , Li Ning , He Xiaoguang
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study sought to analyze the value of point of care ultrasound (POCUS) in early diagnosis and monitoring of deep abscess in newborns.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of the clinical data of two newborns admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of our hospital and diagnosed with deep abscess of the newborn. Combined with literature analysis, the value of POCUS in early diagnosis and monitoring of deep abscess of the newborn was evaluated.

Results

The two newborns reported in this article were all admitted to NICU due to” “fever”. POCUS was used to assist in early diagnosis of “liver abscess” and “lung abscess”. Subsequently, POCUS was used to monitor lesion changes and adjust treatment plans. All patients were cured and discharged with a good prognosis.

Conclusions

Deep abscesses in newborns are very rare and often life-threatening, but apart from fever, they often have no specific clinical manifestations and are easily misdiagnosed or missed. POCUS, as a bedside auxiliary examination tool, has high accuracy, radiation free, non-invasive, and convenient, and has high diagnostic and monitoring value in early diagnosis and monitoring of deep abscess in newborns.
Natural product nobiletin-loaded Pickering emulsion stabilized by bovine serum albumin/carboxymethyl inulin complexes: preparation and digestive characteristics
Authors: Huang Guiying , Zhang Man , Feng Konglong , Xiao Jie , Huang Qingrong , Ho Chi-Tang , Liu Jun
Published: May 2024

To expand the application of nobiletin (NOB) in semi-solid functional foods, bovine serum albumin (BSA)/carboxymethyl inulin (CMI) complexes-stabilized Pickering emulsion (BCPE) (φoil = 60%, v/v) was fabricated, and the swallowing index and bioavailability of the NOB-loaded Pickering emulsion was evaluated. Confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM) images revealed that BSA/CMI complexes attached to the oil–water interface. NOB-loaded BCPE exhibited a viscoelastic and shear-thinning behavior. Fork drip test results suggested that the textural value of unloaded and NOB-loaded emulsions was International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Level 4, which could be swallowed directly without chewing. The in vitro lipolysis model suggested that NOB had a faster digestive profile and a higher bioaccessibility in the BCPE than in the oil suspension. The in vivo rat model revealed that the oral bioavailability of NOB was increased by 2.07 folds in BCPE compared to its bioavailability in unformulated oil. Moreover, BCPE led to a higher plasma concentration of the major demethylated metabolite of NOB (4′-demethylnobiletin) than the unformulated oil. Accordingly, BCPE enhanced the oral bioavailability of NOB by improving bioaccessibility, absorption, and biotransformation.
Existence of a ground-state solution for a quasilinear Schrödinger system
Authors: Zhang Xue , Zhang Jing
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we consider the following quasilinear Schrödinger system.−Δu+u+k2Δ|u|2u=2αα+β|u|α−2u|v|β,x∈RN,−Δv+v+k2Δ|v|2v=2βα+β|u|α|v|β−2v,x∈RN,

where k < 0 is a real constant, α > 1, β > 1, and α + β < 2*. We take advantage of the critical point theorem developed by Jeanjean (Proc. R. Soc. Edinburgh Sect A., 1999, 129: 787–809) and combine it with Pohožaev identity to obtain the existence of a ground-state solution, which is the non-trivial solution with the least possible energy.
De novo genome assembly and population genomics of a shrub tree Barthea barthei (Hance) krass provide insights into the adaptive color variations
Authors: Huang Weicheng , Xu Bin , Guo Wei , Huang Zecheng , Li Yongquan , Wu Wei
Published: May 2024

Flower color is a classic example of an ecologically important trait under selection in plants. Understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying shifts in flower color can provide key insights into ecological speciation. In this study, we investigated the genetic basis of flower color divergence in Barthea barthei, a shrub tree species exhibiting natural variation in flower color. We assembled a high-quality genome assembly for B. barthei with a contig N50 of 2.39 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 16.21 Mb. The assembly was annotated with 46,430 protein-coding genes and 1,560 non-coding RNAs. Genome synteny analysis revealed two recent tetraploidization events in B. barthei, estimated to have occurred at approximately 17 and 63 million years ago. These tetraploidization events resulted in massive duplicated gene content, with over 70% of genes retained in collinear blocks. Gene family members of the core regulators of the MBW complex were significantly expanded in B. barthei compared to Arabidopsis, suggesting that these duplications may have provided raw genetic material for the evolution of novel regulatory interactions and the diversification of anthocyanin pigmentation. Transcriptome profiling of B. barthei flowers revealed differential expression of 9 transcription factors related to anthocyanin biosynthesis between the two ecotypes. Six of these differentially expressed transcription factors were identified as high-confidence candidates for adaptive evolution based on positive selection signals. This study provides insights into the genetic basis of flower color divergence and the evolutionary mechanisms underlying ecological adaptation in plants.