bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of ATP6V0D2 in breast cancer: associations with prognosis, immune characteristics, and TNBC progression
Authors: Zhang Jingyu , Yang Lixian , Xu Bin , Ji Haibo , Liu Shuo , Wang Xiaohan , Li Xiaolong , Wang Quanle , Song Zhenchuan
Published: November 2024

Objective

Researches have identified ATPase H+ transporting V0 subunit d2 (ATP6V0D2) as a significant factor in various cancers. However, its prognostic value in breast cancer (BRCA) and its biological role in BRCA cells remain unclear.

Methods

In this research, we examined the varying expression levels of ATP6V0D2 in both BRCA and normal breast tissue by utilizing information derived from databases including the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), along with clinical samples. Survival studies were carried out to investigate the link between ATP6V0D2 levels and prognosis in BRCA patients. A series of enrichment analyses identified possible pathways associated with the differentially expressed genes in BRCA. The relationships among ATP6V0D2 expression, immune characteristics, and gene mutation were evaluated using Spearman’s test. Finally, the expression of ATP6V0D2 was identified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) alongside western blot analysis. Additionally, Cell Counting kit-8 (CCK-8), Colony formation, Transwell, Scratch healing, and Mouse xenograft tumor assays were conducted to assessed the impact of ATP6V0D2 knockdown on the biological functions in TNBC.

Results

ATP6V0D2 exhibited high expression in a range of cancers and correlated with unfavorable prognosis in BRCA. Functional enrichment analyses revealed enrichment of extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and the signaling pathway of tumor growth factor-beta in the high ATP6V0D2 expression group. Additionally, ATP6V0D2 was closely associated with immune checkpoints. Its expression positively associated with the infiltration levels of macrophage and neutrophil, but inversely with CD8+ T and plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Mutation analysis revealed that PIK3CA, linked to decreased OS, exhibited a higher mutation rate in the ATP6V0D2 high expression group. Furthermore, ATP6V0D2 knockdown inhibited TNBC cells invasion, migration, and proliferation abilities.

Conclusion

ATP6V0D2 acts as a promising indicator for both diagnosis and prediction of outcomes in breast cancer and could potentially be a novel therapeutic target for BRCA.
Chen’s peiyuan tang and premature ovarian failure: unveiling the mechanisms through network pharmacology
Authors: Yang Xiao , Mao Yi-Ming , Yao Chong , Song Ding-ming , He Yi-bo , Shen Wei
Published: November 2024

Background

Chen’s Peiyuan Tang (CSPYT) is a compound herbal formula that has shown the potential to enhance ovarian function and reduce autophagy in ovarian granulosa cells, which plays a crucial role in follicular development and maturation. The application of Chinese herbal medicine offers a promising alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Methods

This study explores CSPYT’s therapeutic mechanisms in treating POF, focusing on its modulation of autophagy through network pharmacology and transcriptomics-based analysis, predicting potential interactions and pathways. KGN cell line and rat ovarian granulosa cells were used for in vitro experiment. 4-Hydroperoxy cyclophosphamide(4-HC) stimulation was carried out for establishing the POF cell model. Q-PCR, Western Blot, Transmission electron microscopy to detect the results.

Results

According to the drug and disease database, the common targets of Chen’s Peiyuan Tang and premature ovarian failure were screened, combined with autophagy gene targets and transcriptome analysis, and finally 8 intersection targets were obtained, namely CDKN1B, MAPK3, PRKCD, CDKN1A, MAPK1, RAF1, BIRC5, CTSB. Enrichment analysis of 8 genes found that they were closely related to the animal autophagy pathway. Construct PPI network diagram. CytoScape 3.9.1 builds CSPYT Drug Target-POF Disease Target-Autophagy Gene Network Diagram. Based on the PPI network diagram and CytoScape 3.9.1 analysis results, it is estimated that MAPK1 and MAPK3 are the key targets of CSPYT in the treatment of POF. The eight final intersection targets were docked with the corresponding active pharmaceutical ingredients. The one that docked most closely with the MAPK family was naringenin. In cell experiment verification, it was confirmed that Chen’s Peiyuan Tang can inhibit the MAPK signaling pathway, significantly reduce the number of autophagosomes, and reduce autophagy damage in ovarian granulosa cells.

Discussion

CSPYT can inhibit the MAPK signaling pathway, prevent autophagy overexpression and restore ovarian granulosa cell function, effectively alleviating the disease pressure of POF.
Overexpression of endothelial S1pr2 promotes blood–brain barrier disruption via JNK/c-Jun/MMP-9 pathway after traumatic brain injury in both in vivo and in vitro models
Authors: Cheng Hongbo , Men Yijiao , An Yaqing , Yu Jiegang , Zhang Gengshen , Li Jiaming , Wang Xiaoliang , Sun Guozhu , Wu Yang
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB) is associated with poor outcomes of TBI patients. Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1pr2), a member of the G protein-coupled receptor family, is involved in endothelial activation and the regulation of vascular integrity. We hypothesized that the inhibition of S1pr2 may alleviate BBB disruption and explored potential underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

Lesion volumes were assessed utilizing Nissl staining; neurological outcomes were evaluated through a battery of neurobehavioral assessments; phenotype-associated proteins were scrutinized via Western blot analysis; levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), neuronal apoptosis, and S1pr2 expression were determined using immunofluorescence staining. The impact of S1pr2 inhibition after TBI and its underlying mechanism were elucidated using the selective S1pr2 inhibitor JTE-013, the JNK phosphorylation inhibitor SP600125, and cellular models. Chip-qPCR was employed to further elucidate the binding sites of the transcription factor c-Jun.

Results

The expression of S1pr2 significantly increased following TBI in mice. Pharmacological inhibition of S1pr2 alleviated secondary injury with reduced lesion volume, ROS generation, cerebral oedema, neurological deficits, and neuronal apoptosis; BBB disruption was also mitigated, accompanied by reduced degradation of tight junction proteins and decreased induction of matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) post-TBI. Mechanistically, TBI induces an increase in S1pr2 specifically in endothelial cells, leading to the promotion of MMP-9 transactivation by enhancing JNK/c-Jun signaling. This results in the degradation of tight junction proteins and increased BBB permeability. Through in vitro and in vivo Chip-qPCR experiments, we verified that AP-1a and AP-1b of MMP-9 promoter function as binding sites for phosphorylated c-Jun.

Conclusion

Our findings identify a previously undisclosed role of S1pr2 in the pathophysiology of TBI. The S1pr2 inhibition presents a novel approach to alleviate BBB disruption after TBI through regulating the JNK/c-Jun/MMP-9 pathway.
Genotoxic and antigenotoxic medicinal plant extracts and their main phytochemicals: “A review”
Authors: Al-Naqeb Ghanya , Kalmpourtzidou Aliki , Giampieri Francesca , De Giuseppe Rachele , Cena Hellas
Published: November 2024

Many medicinal plant extracts have been proven to have significant health benefits. In contrast, research has shown that some medicinal plant extracts can be toxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, or carcinogenic. Therefore, evaluation of the genotoxicity effects of plant extracts that are used as traditional medicine is essential to ensure they are safe for use and in the search for new medication. This review summarizes 52 published studies on the genotoxicity of 28 plant extracts used in traditional medicine. A brief overview of the selected plant extracts, including, for example, their medicinal uses, pharmacological effects, and primary identified compounds, as well as plant parts used, the extraction method, genotoxic assay, and phytochemicals responsible for genotoxicity effect were provided. The genotoxicity effect of selected plant extracts in most of the reviewed articles was based on the experimental conditions. Among different reviewed studies, A total of 6 plant extracts showed no genotoxic effect, other 14 plant extracts showed either genotoxic or mutagenic effect and 14 plant extracts showed anti-genotoxic effect against different genotoxic induced agents. In addition, 4 plant extracts showed both genotoxic and non-genotoxic effects and 6 plant extracts showed both genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects. While some suggestions on the responsible compounds of the genotoxicity effects were proposed, the proposed responsible phytochemicals were not individually tested for the genotoxicity potential to confirm the findings. In addition, the mechanisms by which most plant extracts exert their genotoxicity effect remain unidentified. Therefore, more research on the genotoxicity of medicinal plant extracts and their genotoxicity mechanisms is required.
O304 alleviates abdominal aortic aneurysm formation via AMPK/mTOR/MMP pathway activation
Authors: Sun Daohan , Du Yaming
Published: November 2024

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture is a significant cause of mortality in the elderly population. Despite experimental models identifying promising pharmacological therapies, there is still a lack of pharmacological interventions for AAA prior to surgery. This study aims to evaluate the regulatory role of the novel adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) agonist O304 in AAA formation and explore its underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

We evaluated the expression of AMPK signaling pathway components and contractile vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC)-related genes in AAA samples from mice using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). We evaluate the TGF-β expression by western blotting and RT-qPCR and TGF-β concentration in blood by ELISA. We developed an in vitro model of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced VSMC phenotypic switching. After treatment with O304, we analyzed the expression of contractile genes and proteins in VSMCs by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. We also evaluated the expression of AMPK signaling pathway components and matrix metalloproteinases by western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis. We established a mouse model of AAA to evaluate the impact of O304 on aneurysm diameter and blood pressure, analyzed VSMC phenotypic switching through immunofluorescence analysis, and assessed the regulatory effects of O304 on AMPK signaling in the mouse model of AAA by Western blotting.

Results

AMPK signaling pathway components and contractile genes in VSMCs were downregulated in mouse AAA samples, underscoring the crucial role of AMPK signaling in VSMC phenotypic switching. In the TGF-β-induced model of VSMC phenotypic switching, O304 activated AMPK signaling and prevented VSMC phenotypic switching from the contractile to the synthetic phenotype. Moreover, O304 significantly activated AMPK signaling, increased the proportion of contractile VSMCs, and reduced AAA formation and blood pressure in the mouse model of AAA.

Conclusion

During AAA development, VSMCs transitioned from the contractile to the proliferative phenotype, a process that has previously been associated with AMPK pathway inhibition. O304, an AMPK agonist, activated the AMPK pathway, preventing VSMC phenotypic switching and inhibiting AAA formation. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting the AMPK pathway in AAA.
The role of artificial intelligence in drug screening, drug design, and clinical trials
Authors: Wu Yuyuan , Ma Lijing , Li Xinyi , Yang Jingpeng , Rao Xinyu , Hu Yiru , Xi Jingyi , Tao Lin , Wang Jianjun , Du Lailing , Chen Gongxing , Liu Shuiping
Published: November 2024

The role of computational tools in drug discovery and development is becoming increasingly important due to the rapid development of computing power and advancements in computational chemistry and biology, improving research efficiency and reducing the costs and potential risks of preclinical and clinical trials. Machine learning, especially deep learning, a subfield of artificial intelligence (AI), has demonstrated significant advantages in drug discovery and development, including high-throughput and virtual screening, ab initio design of drug molecules, and solving difficult organic syntheses. This review summarizes AI technologies used in drug discovery and development, including their roles in drug screening, design, and solving the challenges of clinical trials. Finally, it discusses the challenges of drug discovery and development based on AI technologies, as well as potential future directions.
Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation plays a role in relieving cancer pain
Authors: Zhang Wen-Jun , Chen Dingyi
Published: November 2024

Tumors can invade, compress, and damage nerves, leading to persistent pain and seriously affecting the quality of life of patients. However, their treatment is challenging. Sensitization of peripheral receptors, abnormal activity of primary sensory neurons, activation of glial cells, enhanced inflammatory responses, and sensory information transmission contribute towards cancer pain. Therefore, considerable attention has been paid to exploring prospective methods to inhibit the occurrence of these factors and relieve cancer pain. Studies on different types of pains have revealed that the transplantation of functionally active cells into the host has the pharmacological effect of producing analgesia. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can act as small active pumps to reduce the expression of pain-related molecules and produce analgesic effects. Moreover, MSCs can establish complex communication networks with non-tumor and cancer cells in the microenvironment, interact with each other, and can be used as destinations for inflammation and tumor sites, affecting their potential for invasion and metastasis. This emphasizes the key role of MSCs in cancer and pain management. The pain relief mechanisms of MSCs include neuronutrition, neural protection, neural network reconstruction, immune regulation, and improvement of the inflammatory microenvironment around the nerve injury. All of these are beneficial for the recovery of injured or stimulated nerves and the reconstruction of neural function, and play a role in relieving pain. The pain treatment strategy of cell transplantation is to repair injured nerves and produce analgesic pharmacological properties that are different from those of painkillers and other physiotherapies. Although the therapeutic role of MSCs in cancer and pain is in its early stages, the therapeutic value of MSCs for cancer pain has great prospects. Therefore, in this study, we explored the possible mechanism between MSCs and cancer pain, the potential therapeutic role of therapeutic cells in cancer pain, and some problems and challenges.
Toward the role of social agency in explaining the personalization effect
Authors: Lindhaus Maike , Bolin Julia S. , Weßeling Laura , Oest Luisa , Dutke Stephan
Published: November 2024

Personalizing written learning materials has been shown to enhance learning compared to conventional text. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of social agency in explaining the personalization effect. For this purpose, a theory-based scale for measuring social agency was designed including four facets: conversational character, sympathy and emotional connection, explanatory effect, and task involvement. The results of two experiments with N1 = 66 university and N2 = 77 high-school students showed that personalized written learning materials compared to non-personalized learning materials were rated higher on the first and partly on the second facet of social agency. However, the personalized materials did not increase learning outcome measures. Consistently, no differences in the task involvement between persons learning with personalized and non-personalized materials were found. Results show that personalization in conversational style alone does not lead to an improvement in learning performance unless other factors intensify task involvement.
Did social isolation affect anxiety and sleep quality of elite soccer players during the COVID-19 lockdown? Comparisons to training before distancing in the pandemic and outlook for mental health
Authors: da Cruz Whyllerton Mayron , Coimbra Danilo Reis , Vilarino Guilherme Torres , dos Santos Amândio Manuel Cupido , da Silva Vernon Furtado , Mancone Stefania , Falese Lavinia , Diotaiuti Pierluigi , Andrade Alexandro
Published: November 2024

Objective

To analyze the anxiety levels and sleep quality of elite soccer athletes in training pre-pandemic and during the lockdown caused by COVID-19.

Method

This is an exploratory study with a longitudinal design carried out with elite soccer athletes from two Brazilian soccer clubs. Data collection took place in person pre-pandemic (training) and online (during lockdown) between February and May 2020. The instruments used to assess sleep, daytime sleepiness, and anxiety were the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Daytime Sleepiness Scale-(ESS-BR), and Competitive Anxiety Scale (SCAT). For data analysis, descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, maximum and minimum) and non-parametric inferential statistics were used, establishing a significance of p < 0.05.

Results

In total, 76 male soccer athletes participated in the study. A significant increase was observed in anxiety levels in confinement compared to pre-pandemic training (p = 0.017; g = 0.83), and sleepiness significantly reduced in training compared to baseline levels (p = 0.007; g = 0.48). The athletes demonstrated good sleep quality and the pandemic did not significantly alter daytime sleepiness compared to training and baseline.

Conclusion

From the results it can be concluded that elite soccer athletes presented alterations in anxiety levels compared to training during confinement, however, no effects of confinement were observed on sleep quality and sleepiness. New studies are needed to analyze the long-term consequences of the pandemic and the relationships between anxiety and sleep in training and competition in athletes.
Cardiovascular disease prediction model based on patient behavior patterns in the context of deep learning: a time-series data analysis perspective
Authors: Wang Yubo , Rao Chengfeng , Cheng Qinghua , Yang Jiahao
Published: November 2024

To address the limitations of traditional cardiovascular disease prediction models in capturing dynamic changes and personalized differences in patients, we propose a novel LGAP model based on time-series data analysis. This model integrates Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, Graph Neural Networks (GNN), and Multi-Head Attention mechanisms. By combining patients' time-series data (such as medical records, physical parameters, and activity data) with relationship graph data, the model effectively identifies patient behavior patterns and their interrelationships, thereby improving the accuracy and generalization of cardiovascular disease risk prediction. Experimental results show that LGAP outperforms traditional models on datasets such as PhysioNet and NHANES, particularly in prediction accuracy and personalized health management. The introduction of LGAP offers a new approach to enhancing the precision of cardiovascular disease prediction and the development of customized patient care plans.
Barriers impeding research data sharing on chronic disease prevention among the older adults in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Mosha Neema Florence Vincent , Ngulube Patrick
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases, are a growing public health concern in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) among the older population. The current review aimed to identify the main barriers that impede researchers from sharing research data on the prevention of chronic diseases in older adults living in LMICs). The review included both older women and men from these countries.

Methods

Studies were selected from 11 databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Taylor and Francis, Biomedical Central, BioOne, CINAHL, EBSCOHost, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online, and Google Scholar, were then transferred to CADIMA, an online tool for screening purposes, and a total of 1,305,316 studies were identified through a robust search strategy. CADIMA also ensured the quality of all studies in this review. The sampling techniques were performed by selecting and screening studies per this review’s eligibility criteria. Ultimately, 13 studies were found to meet these criteria. A PRISMA flow chart was used to map out the number of studies that were identified, included, and excluded.

Results

Five main barriers were consistently highlighted, including a lack of necessary resources (9, 69%), dealing with complex and sensitive research data (2,15%), lack of policies, procedures, guidelines (5,38%), medical big data processing and integration (2,15%), and inadequate ethical considerations, legal compliance, and privacy protection (6,46%). Discussion: By shedding light on these obstacles, researchers can develop strategies to overcome the identified barriers and address areas requiring further investigation. The registration details of this review can be found under PROSPERO 2023 CRD42023437385, underscoring the importance of this review in advancing our collective understanding of chronic disease prevention among older adults worldwide.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023437385, available at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023437385.
Human papillomavirus self-sampling versus provider-sampling in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review of accuracy, acceptability, cost, uptake, and equity
Authors: Otieno Jenifer Akoth , Were Lisa , Nyanchoka Moriasi , Olwanda Easter , Mulaku Mercy , Sem Xiaohui , Kohli Mikashmi , Markby Jessica , Muriuki Angela , Ochodo Eleanor
Published: November 2024

Introduction

HPV self-sampling is a relatively new, cost-effective and widely accepted method, however, uptake in LMICs remains limited. We aimed to map out the evidence and identify gaps in accuracy, acceptability, cost, equity and uptake of self-sampling vs. provider-sampling in LMICs.

Methods

We searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Global Index Medicus, from 1946 to July 2023. Inclusion criteria entailed studies focusing on self-sampling alone or compared to provider-sampling for HPV testing and reporting on at least one outcome of interest (accuracy, acceptability, cost, equity, or uptake). Two authors independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts, resolving disagreements through discussion. Data was extracted by one reviewer independently, with quality checks by senior authors, and results were synthesised narratively.

Results

Our search yielded 3,739 records, with 124 studies conducted on 164,165 women aged 15–88 years between 2000 and 2023 included. Most studies were from the African region (n = 61, 49.2%). Designs included cross-sectional (n = 90, 81.1%), randomised (n = 5, 4.5%), modelling (n = 4, 3.6%), micro-costing (n = 2, 1.8%), and non-randomised crossover (n = 1, 0.9%) studies. Outcomes included; acceptability (n = 79, 63.7%), accuracy (n = 51, 41.1%), cost (n = 7, 5.6%), and uptake (n = 7, 5.6%). Most studies reported that participants preferred self-sampling, with only a few studies (n = 7, 8.9%) studies favouring provider-sampling. The sensitivity and specificity of self-sampling ranged from 37.5–96.8% and 41.6–100.0%, respectively. One study directly compared the sensitivity and specificity of dry self-collected vs. wet provider-collected sample transportation. Laboratory costs were similar, but overall costs were lower for self-sampling. Uptake was higher for self-sampling in five of the seven studies. Most studies (n = 106) mentioned equity factors like age (n = 69, 65.1%), education (n = 68, 64.2%) and place of residence (n = 59, 55.6%) but no analysis of their impact was provided.

Conclusion

HPV self-sampling is acceptable and cost-effective but, evidence of its accuracy shows varying sensitivity and specificity. Evidence on the accuracy of dry self-collected vs. wet provider-collected sample transportation is limited. Research evaluating HPV self-sampling’s accuracy, including comparisons of transportation modes, uptake, the impact of equity factors in LMICs and comparisons with high-income countries is essential to inform cervical cancer screening uptake.

Systematic review registration

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/34TUY.
Rural–urban differences in the association between home-based community care services satisfaction and mental health status among older adults in Zhejiang Province, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ying Yuchen , Dong Lifang , Zhang Li , Kong Fanqian , Yang Jiani , Huang Xiaoling
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aims to examine the association between home-based community care services (HBCCS) and mental health in older adults and specifically analyzes rural–urban differences in the association.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 852 older adults from Zhejiang Province, China. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), University of California Los Angeles 3-item Loneliness Scale (UCLA-3), and the Mental Health (MH) component score of the 36-item Short Form (SF-36) were used to measure self-reported mental health status. Four categories of community care services were examined: daily, medical, social and recreational, and spiritual comfort. Satisfaction with community care services was assessed using self-reported measures. We used a multiple linear regression model.

Results

Satisfaction with daily care services, social and recreational services, and spiritual comfort services in rural older adults was significantly higher than in urban older adults (p = 0.016, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). Rural older adults reported lower scores on the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and UCLA-3 than urban older adults (p < 0.001, p = 0.003, p = 0.001, respectively) and had significantly higher scores on the SF-36 MH than urban older adults (p < 0.001). Among urban older adults, medical care services satisfaction was negatively related to the PHQ-9 and UCLA-3 scores (β = −0.296, p = 0.004; β = −0.447, p = 0.009, respectively). A lower UCLA-3 score was associated with higher levels of satisfaction with social and recreational services and with spiritual comfort services (β = −0.426, p = 0.010; β = −0.523, p = 0.002, respectively). A higher level of spiritual comfort services satisfaction was associated with a lower SF-36 MH score (β = 0.646, p < 0.001). Among rural older adults, medical care services satisfaction was negatively related to the GAD-7 score (β = −0.327, p = 0.028).

Conclusion

Home-based community care services satisfaction was positively associated with older adults’ mental health status in Zhejiang Province. More attention should be paid to maintaining relevant satisfaction with HBCCS to ensure positive mental health among rural and urban older adults.
Development and validation of a risk prediction model for dyslipidemia in community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults in China: a nationwide survey
Authors: Jiang Hailong , Geng Xiaoting , Shi Jie , Zhang Chi , Li Chang , Gai Ying , Mei Jia , Li Shuying
Published: November 2024

Background

The incidence of dyslipidemia as a risk factor for many serious diseases is increasing year by year. This study aimed to construct and visualize a risk prediction model for dyslipidemia in middle-aged and older adults.

Method

The subjects of our study are derived from CHARLS. Participants were allocated to training and validation groups in a 7:3 ratio at random. To identify potential predictors of dyslipidemia, we employed univariate analysis, lasso regression, and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses. A nomogram was constructed based on logistic regression results, and a ROC curve was used to evaluate its predictive performance. The accuracy and discriminatory capability were assessed using calibration curve analysis, while the net clinical benefit rate was evaluated through decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Our study included a total of 12,589 participants, of which 1,514 were detected with dyslipidemia syndrome. Model construction: Based on the results of the logistic regression analysis of the training set, six variables were selected to construct the model, which were ranked in order of importance as comorbid hypertension, comorbid diabetes, waistline, comorbid digestive disease, place of abode, and comorbid liver disease. The ROC curve results indicated that the prediction model exhibited moderate discriminatory ability (AUC > 0.7). Additionally, the calibration curve confirmed the model's strong predictive accuracy. The decision curve analysis (DCA) illustrated a positive net benefit associated with the prediction model.

Conclusions

The prediction model of dyslipidemia risk in middle-aged and older adults constructed in this study has good efficacy and helps to screen high-risk groups.
Effects of high intensity interval training and moderate intensity continuous training on enjoyment and affective responses in overweight or obese people: a meta-analysis
Authors: Luo Yang , Zhang Junshuai , Jia Haichang , Mu Xintong , Huang Jing
Published: November 2024

Background

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) have demonstrated significant potential for enhancing physical and mental health. However, their respective effects on enjoyment and affective responses remain contentious.

Objective

The objective of this meta-analysis is to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of HIIT and MICT on enjoyment and affective responses in overweight or obese people, and to find the most appropriate exercise mode for overweight or obese people.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. A comprehensive search was performed across databases including Cochrane, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science, with a cutoff date of August 2024. Data extraction and organization were carried out using Excel, and Review manager was used to evaluate the quality of the literature and to analyze and process the data. The Stata was used to test publication bias.

Results

A total of 16 articles were included in the literature, and a total of 537 participants met the inclusion criteria, including 213 participants in HIIT, 183 participants in MICT, 84 participants in alternating HIIT and MICT, and 57 participants in other forms of intervention (self-selected intensity exercise, very-high-intensity interval exercise, repetitive sprint training, and blank control). All study participants were between the ages of 18–70 years old, and the duration of the intervention ranged from 1 to 16 weeks. Enjoyment and affective effects of HIIT and MICT were analyzed using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale, Feeling Scale and Felt Arousal Scale.

Conclusion

Both HIIT and MICT can bring about similar enjoyable and positive affective responses in overweight and obese people, HIIT caused participants to experience higher enjoyment and similar affect responses compared to MICT.
Large wetlands representation in SWAT+: the case of the Pantanal in the Paraguay River Basin
Authors: Barresi Armoa Osvaldo Luis , Arnold Jeffrey G. , Bieger Katrin , Sauvage Sabine , Sánchez-Pérez José Miguel
Published: November 2024

The Paraguay River Basin forms part of the La Plata River Basin in South America. Its streamflow is significantly attenuated by a high evapotranspiration rate, very gentle slopes and the presence of a vast wetland known as the Pantanal. Modeling the hydrology of watersheds in which the flood pulse is affected by the presence of large floodplains can pose issues for hydrological models that do not account for spatial complexity and simplify water routing using linear assumptions. The new version of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool, known as SWAT+, routes water using variations of the kinematic wave model. However, with the inclusion of connectivity and Landscape Units, SWAT+ provides more flexibility in terms of representing the hydrologic fluxes in the watershed. The main objective of this study is to use the concept of Landscape Units and connectivity to represent the water exchanges between uplands, floodplains and channels. We developed code routines to (1) temporally retain surface and subsurface water coming from the upland into the floodplain, by assuming a reservoir-like floodplain behavior, and (2) represent overbank flow, aiming to fully simulate the interactions between channels and floodplains. The model was calibrated based on monthly discharge for the period 1990 to 2020. The simulated average annual water storage in the floodplains of the Paraguay River is ~108.81 mm accounting for 56.5% of the total annual discharge at the outlet. Furthermore, ~61% of the total annual surface runoff in the Paraguay River Basin flows through the floodplains. Results indicate that the model is able to capture the hydrologic regime in the Paraguay River representing an improvement of SWAT+.
Understanding the presence of military priests conducting military soul care in the Swedish armed forces: a medical sociological perspective
Authors: Grimell Jan
Published: November 2024

In the 20th century, military medicine and psychiatry emerged as dominant paradigms in Western military contexts, shaping practices across recruitment, selection, training, screening, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. This approach paralleled trends in broader Western society, where it has faced criticism for medicalizing social, psychological, spiritual, and existential issues, often applying methods ill-suited to address certain forms of suffering. Despite this shift, alternative approaches embodied by military priests have maintained a meaningful role in the Swedish armed forces, in a country often, if somewhat misleadingly, regarded as one of the world’s most secularized. This article aims to elucidate the foundations, concepts, distinctiveness, and contributions of military soul care—militär själavård in Swedish—as practiced by military priests, or fältpräster, within the Swedish military context. Unlike chaplains (ordained and others) in other Swedish settings (e.g., hospitals, prisons, schools, airports, police) or military chaplains internationally, Swedish military priests operate within a unique mandate and purpose. Military soul care aims to build resilience to crises and wartime conditions, strengthening individuals’ will to defend and fight. The framework encompasses military soul care and counseling, advisory roles, education, ceremonies (including field sermons, prayers, memorials), and support for commanders in times of crisis. While military medicine and psychiatry continue to hold normative authority in a Swedish military society, there is a growing recognition that military personnel require more than physical conditioning to build mental resilience. Enduring the complex stresses of warfare demands approaches that transcend medical perspectives, addressing the human condition within a cultural and symbolic context. This article highlights key historical, societal, military, and ecclesiastical perspectives essential for understanding why this distinctive approach to military soul care has emerged in Sweden.
A Fault-Tolerant Control Strategy for Distributed Drive Electric Vehicles Based on Model Reference Adaptive Control
Authors: Zhou Zhigang , Zhang Guanghua , Chen Meizhong
Published: November 2024

This study addresses the issue of compromised performance and stability in distributed drive electric vehicles during high-speed operation in the event of motor failure. A fault-tolerant control strategy for distributed drive electric vehicles is proposed, based on model reference adaptive control (MRAC). First, a seven-degree-of-freedom vehicle dynamics reference model is established, from which the output torque of each wheel during stable operation is determined. Secondly, based on the compensation principle that maintains constant longitudinal speed and total torque before and after the fault, the output torque of the remaining wheels is determined to ensure normal vehicle operation in the event of a single motor failure. To improve torque distribution accuracy, an MRAC controller that takes into account the output hysteresis of the motor is designed. The transfer functions of both the reference model and the actual model are derived. Using Lyapunov’s second method, the adaptation rate of the MRAC system is formulated, ensuring that the state of the actual model converges to that of the reference model, thereby achieving adaptive regulation of system parameters and global stability. Finally, simulation experiments are conducted under high-speed dual-lane conditions. The results indicate that, in the case of a single motor failure with constant vehicle speed, the yaw rate and lateral displacement of the vehicle’s center of mass decrease, thereby validating the effectiveness of the proposed fault-tolerant control strategy.
Environmental Sustainability in Hotels: A Review of the Relevance and Contributions of Assessment Tools and Techniques
Authors: Makoondlall-Chadee Toshima , Bokhoree Chandradeo
Published: November 2024

The hospitality industry is a major segment of tourism, which is, in turn, a main economic contributor for many destinations. Sustainable tourism practices are promoted worldwide by international organizations like the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) to assist different countries. Various frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), and environmental indices and management systems such as ISO 14001 are common assessment tools for environmental sustainability. This research reviews the relevance of incorporating environmental and socio-economic factors within hotel operations that may lead to improved transparency and operational effectiveness while guaranteeing adherence to sustainability within the hotel business. Accordingly, a systematic review of environmental sustainability assessments in hotels was carried out. A comprehensive analysis of research articles published between January 2000 and January 2023 by reputed databases ranging from Google Scholar, Scopus, and others, were used to conduct the literature review. A total of 38 papers were examined adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards, and it is worth noting that a significant increase in interest emerged in 2018, especially in Europe and Asia. The review reiterated the relevance and need to use relevant assessment methods and tools that aid in implementing sustainable development strategies to promote tourism-dependent economies, which can serve as a guiding note for varied tourism destinations. It additionally provides valuable knowledge for future directions, whilst improving research methods and incorporating innovative technologies. These advancements are essential as they may guide policy decisions to protect the environment within the hospitality industry.
Spatial, Vertical, and Temporal Soil Water Content Variability Affected by Low-Pressure Drip Irrigation in Sandy Loam Soil: A Soil Bin Experimental Study
Authors: Ali Mohammod , Haque Md Asrakul , Ali Md Razob , Rahman Md Aminur , Jin Hongbin , Jang Young Yoon , Chung Sun-Ok
Published: November 2024

Drip irrigation pressure is considered a key parameter for controlling and designing the drip irrigation system in sandy soils. Understanding soil water content (SWC) movements under varying pressures can enhance water use efficiency and support sustainable irrigation strategies for crops in arid regions. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of irrigation pressure on the spatial, vertical, and temporal variability of SWC in sandy loam soil using surface drip irrigation. Experiments were carried out in a soil bin located in a greenhouse. SWC sensors were placed at depths 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 cm to monitor SWC variability under low, medium, and high drip irrigation pressures (25, 50, and 75 kPa) at a constant emitter flow rate of 3 L/h. A pressure controller was used to regulate drip irrigation pressure, while microcontrollers communicated with SWC sensors, collected experimental data, and automatically recorded the outputs. At low irrigation pressure, water content began to increase at 0.53 h and saturated at 3.5 h, with both values being significantly lower at medium and high pressures. The results indicated that lower pressures led to significant variability in water movement at shallow depths (10 to 30 cm), becoming uniform at deeper layers but requiring longer irrigation times. Competitively higher pressures showed uniform water distribution and retention statistically throughout the soil profiles with shorter irrigation times. The variation in water distribution resulting in non-uniform coverage across the irrigated area demonstrates how pressure changes affect the flow rate of the emitter. The results provide information maps with soil water data that can be adjusted with irrigation pressure to maximize water use efficiency in sandy loam soils, aiding farmers in better irrigation scheduling for different crops using surface drip irrigation techniques in arid environments.
Heat Stress Resistance in Chlorella vulgaris Enhanced by Hydrolyzed Whey Proteins
Authors: Brück Wolfram Manuel , Alfonso Esteban , Rienth Markus , Andlauer Wilfried
Published: November 2024

Plant biologists have long used various model organisms, such as Arabidopsis thaliana, to study biological processes. The emergence of algal model organisms in recent years greatly facilitated plant research due to their compact genomes with a very low level of functional redundancy and their physiological properties. Here, the green microalga Chlorella vulgaris has been used as a model organism to study the effect of whey hydrolysates against heat stress in vascular plants. Cell density in culture, as well as chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations, were monitored during an initial growth phase, followed by a heat stress phase and a subsequent recovery phase. Results showed that whey hydrolysates promoted the recovery of heat-stressed C. vulgaris and showed improved growth rates and generation times after heat stress compared to cells grown in BG-11 only. Similarly, the production of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and total carotenoids was improved in comparison to cells grown only in BG-11. The results may aid the development of novel biostimulants that protect crops from climate change due to higher throughput and shorter study times compared to traditional plant models.
Screening, Identification, and Characterization of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacterium Strains from Alpine Grassland as Biocontrol Agents Against Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Yao Xinni , Lan Xiaojun , Jin Yanli , Li Chunjie
Published: November 2024

Wilt and root rot diseases caused by Fusarium species can severely affect herbage plants, resulting in significant losses. Currently, the research and application of biological control methods targeting Fusarium-related diseases in herbage plants are limited. In this study, 11 plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) strains previously screened from alpine grassland were tested to assess their inhibitory effects on Fusarium oxysporum and their ability to produce siderophores, protease, cellulase, and amylase. Meanwhile, their plant growth-promoting properties, such as nitrogenase activity, phosphate dissolution, and IAA production, were determined. The results showed that the tested PGPR strains exhibited diverse functionalities. Nine PGPR strains demonstrated antagonistic effects on colony diameter against Fusarium oxysporum, with Bacillus subtilis gt11 showing the strongest inhibition, followed by Bacillus velezensis gt1 and Bacillus subtilis gtr1, with inhibition rates of 73.57%, 69.13%, and 67.94%, respectively. The test PGPR strains mainly comprised three genera: Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Acinetobacter. Pseudomonas was the dominant genus. The PGPR strains displayed diverse inhibitory mechanisms. Bacillus velezensis gt1, Pseudomonas subtilis gt11, Bacillus subtilis gtr1, and Pseudomonas tritici gt6 exhibited high levels of siderophore, protease, cellulase, and amylase production, potentially inhibiting Fusarium oxysporum by degrading its cell wall through these enzyme activities. The majority of the tested PGPR strains have the characteristic of producing multiple enzymes. Considering the plant growth-promoting characteristics of nitrogenase activity (38.13–505.70 nmol C2H4/vial), phosphate solubilization (inorganophosphates ranging from 41.18 to 91.65 μg·mL−1; organophosphates ranging from 5.21 to 31.17 μg·mL−l), and IAA secretion (9.27–48.95 μg·mL−1), Bacillus subtilis gt11, Bacillus velezensis gt1, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus gt14, and Bacillus subtilis gtr1 show potential for development into biofertilizers or biocontrol agents.
Faba Bean Extracts Allelopathically Inhibited Seed Germination and Promoted Seedling Growth of Maize
Authors: Li Bo , Zhou Enqiang , Zhou Yao , Wang Xuejun , Wang Kaihua
Published: November 2024

Allelopathic interactions between crops in an intercropping system can directly affect crop yields. Faba beans may release allelochemicals to the cropping system. However, the allelopathic effects in the faba bean–maize relay intercropping system are still unclear. Maize seeds and seedlings were treated with a 50 mL of 100 g L−1 faba bean leaf extract (L1), 150 g L−1 faba bean leaf extract (L2), 100 g L−1 faba bean stem extract (S1), or 150 g L−1 faba bean stem extract (S2) and sterile water (CK) to study the allelopathic effects of faba bean extracts on maize seed germination and seedling growth. The α-amylase activities, antioxidant enzyme activities, phytohormones and allelochemical content in maize seeds were determined to evaluate the allelopathic effects of faba bean extracts on maize seed germination. The agronomic traits, photosynthetic parameters and nutrient absorption characteristics of maize seedlings were determined to explore the allelopathic effects of faba bean extracts on maize seedling growth. High-concentration (150 g L−1) faba bean stem extracts released allelochemicals, such as 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, hydrocinnamic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, and benzoic acid. These allelochemicals entered the interior of maize seeds and increased the abscisic acid, salicylic acid and indole-3-acetic acid content in maize seeds but decreased the aminocyclopropane carboxylic acid in maize seeds. High-concentration (150 g L−1) faba bean stem extracts increased the superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activity and decreased the α-amylase activity in maize seeds at germination (36 h). Faba bean extracts released nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus and increased nitrogen content, phosphorus content, potassium content and photosynthesis of maize seedling. In summary, faba bean extracts released allelochemicals that inhibited the germination of maize seeds but released nutrients and promoted the growth and development of maize seedlings. The research results provide a basis for improving the Faba bean–maize relay strip intercropping.