bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual isolation of primary neurons and oligodendrocytes from guinea pig frontal cortex
Authors: Moloney Roisin A. , Pavy Carlton L. , Kahl Richard G. S. , Palliser Hannah K. , Hirst Jon J. , Shaw Julia C.
Published: January 2024

Primary cell culture is a technique that is widely used in neuroscience research to investigate mechanisms that underlie pathologies at a cellular level. Typically, mouse or rat tissue is used for this process; however, altricial rodent species have markedly different neurodevelopmental trajectories comparatively to humans. The use of guinea pig brain tissue presents a novel aspect to this routinely used cell culture method whilst also allowing for dual isolation of two major cell types from a physiologically relevant animal model for studying perinatal neurodevelopment. Primary neuronal and oligodendrocyte cell cultures were derived from fetal guinea pig's frontal cortex brain tissue collected at a gestational age of 62 days (GA62), which is a key time in the neuronal and oligodendrocyte development. The major advantage of this protocol is the ability to acquire both neuronal and oligodendrocyte cellular cultures from the frontal cortex of one fetal brain. Briefly, neuronal cells were grown in 12-well plates initially in a 24-h serum-rich medium to enhance neuronal survival before switching to a serum-free media formulation. Oligodendrocytes were first grown in cell culture flasks using a serum-rich medium that enabled the growth of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) on an astrocyte bed. Following confluency, the shake method of differential adhesion and separation was utilized via horizontally shaking the OPCs off the astrocyte bed overnight. Therefore, OPCs were plated in 12-well plates and were initially expanded in media supplemented with growth hormones, before switching to maturation media to progress the lineage to a mature phenotype. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed on both cell culture types to analyze key population markers, and the results were further validated using immunocytochemistry. Primary neurons displayed the mRNA expression of multiple neuronal markers, including those specific to GABAergic populations. These cells also positively stained for microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2; a dendritic marker specific to neurons) and NeuN (a marker of neuronal cell bodies). Primary oligodendrocytes expressed all investigated markers of the oligodendrocyte lineage, with a majority of the cells displaying an immature oligodendrocyte phenotype. This finding was further confirmed with positive oligodendrocyte transcription factor (OLIG2) staining, which serves as a marker for the overall oligodendrocyte population. This study demonstrates a novel method for isolating both neurons and oligodendrocytes from the guinea pig brain tissue. These isolated cells display key markers and gene expression that will allow for functional experiments to occur and may be particularly useful in studying neurodevelopmental conditions with perinatal origins.
De novo GABRA1 variants in childhood epilepsies and the molecular subregional effects
Authors: Liu Wen-Hui , Luo Sheng , Zhang Dong-Ming , Lin Zi-Sheng , Lan Song , Li Xin , Shi Yi-Wu , Su Tao , Yi Yong-Hong , Zhou Peng , Li Bing-Mei
Published: January 2024

Background

The GABRA1 gene, encoding the GABRAR subunit α1, plays vital roles in inhibitory neurons. Previously, the GABRA1 gene has been identified to be associated with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) and idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE). This study aims to explore the phenotypic spectrum of GABRA1 and molecular subregional effect analysis.

Methods

Trios-based whole-exome sequencing was performed in patients with epilepsy. Previously reported GABRA1 mutations were systematically reviewed to analyze the molecular subregional effects.

Results

De novo GABRA1 mutations were identified in six unrelated patients with heterogeneous epilepsy, including three missense mutations (p.His83Asn, p.Val207Phe, and p.Arg214Cys) and one frameshift mutation (p.Thr453Hisfs*47). The two missense mutations, p.His83Asn and p.Val207Phe, were predicted to decrease the protein stability but no hydrogen bond alteration, with which the two patients also presented with mild genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus and achieved seizure-free status by monotherapy. The missense variant p.Arg214Cys was predicted to decrease protein stability and destroy hydrogen bonds with surrounding residues, which was recurrently identified in three cases with severe DEE. The frameshift variant p.Thr453Hisfs*47 was located in the last fifth residue of the C-terminus and caused an extension of 47 amino acids, with which the patients presented with moderated epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone (GTCA) but achieved seizure-free status by four drugs. The four variants were not presented in gnomAD and were evaluated as “pathogenic/likely pathogenic” according to ACMG criteria. Analysis of all reported cases indicated that patients with mutations in the N-terminal extracellular region presented a significantly higher percentage of FS and DEE, and the patients with variants in the transmembrane region presented earlier seizure onset ages.

Significance

This study suggested that GABRA1 variants were potentially associated with a spectrum of epilepsies, including EFS+, DEE, and GTCA. Phenotypic severity may be associated with the damaging effect of variants. The molecular subregional effects help in understanding the underlying mechanism of phenotypic variation.
Automatic deep learning method for third lumbar selection and body composition evaluation on CT scans of cancer patients
Authors: Delrieu Lidia , Blanc Damien , Bouhamama Amine , Reyal Fabien , Pilleul Frank , Racine Victor , Hamy Anne Sophie , Crochet Hugo , Marchal Timothée , Heudel Pierre Etienne
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The importance of body composition and sarcopenia is well-recognized in cancer patient outcomes and treatment tolerance, yet routine evaluations are rare due to their time-intensive nature. While CT scans provide accurate measurements, they depend on manual processes. We developed and validated a deep learning algorithm to automatically select and segment abdominal muscles [SM], visceral fat [VAT], and subcutaneous fat [SAT] on CT scans.

Materials and Methods

A total of 352 CT scans were collected from two cancer centers. The detection of the third lumbar vertebra and three different body tissues (SM, VAT, and SAT) were annotated manually. The 5-fold cross-validation method was used to develop the algorithm and validate its performance on the training cohort. The results were validated on an external, independent group of CT scans.

Results

The algorithm for automatic L3 slice selection had a mean absolute error of 4 mm for the internal validation dataset and 5.5 mm for the external validation dataset. The median DICE similarity coefficient for body composition was 0.94 for SM, 0.93 for VAT, and 0.86 for SAT in the internal validation dataset, whereas it was 0.93 for SM, 0.93 for VAT, and 0.85 for SAT in the external validation dataset. There were high correlation scores with sarcopenia metrics in both internal and external validation datasets.

Conclusions

Our deep learning algorithm facilitates routine research use and could be integrated into electronic patient records, enhancing care through better monitoring and the incorporation of targeted supportive measures like exercise and nutrition.
Global research hotspots and trends in non-surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis over the past three decades: a bibliometric and visualization study
Authors: Xu Jie , Chen Meng , Wang Xin , Xu Lin , Luo Xiaobing
Published: January 2024

Background

In recent years, research on the non-surgical treatment of AIS has been increasingly conducted. To the best of our knowledge, this field doesn't yet have a comprehensive and structured pulse combing analysis. In order to provide inspiration and resources for subsequent researchers, we thus reviewed the literature studies on the non-surgical treatment of AIS from the previous thirty years and highlighted the hotspots and frontiers of research in this field.

Methods

Main using Citespace 6.1 software, the data from the core dataset of the WOS database pertaining to the non-surgical management of AIS from 1990 to 2022 was gathered, displayed, and analyzed.

Results

839 papers in all were included in the literature. With 215 papers, the USA came in first place. Chinese Univ Hong Kong ranked first with 32 papers. Research hotspots are adolescent idiopathic spondylitis, Schroth-based physiotherapy-specific exercise efficacy, curve development, Cobb angle, TLSO brace-based clinical efficacy, quality of life, reliability, health-related quality of life questionnaires, finite element biomechanical models, follow-up, and clinical guidelines.

Conclusion

There aren't many studies that compare the clinical effectiveness of various non-surgical treatments, and because of variations in inclusion eligibility standards and outcome measures, these studies cannot be directly compared. In addition, the inconsistency of existing growth potential and progression risk assessment systems further affects comparative studies of clinical efficacy; it is recommended to establish primary assessment indicators centered on patient treatment outcomes (including appearance, disability, pain, and quality of life), as well as standardized scoliosis progression risk assessment criteria.
Bioactivity and toxicity of coumarins from African medicinal plants
Authors: Anywar Godwin , Muhumuza Emmanuel
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Coumarins are naturally occuring metabolites from plants and a few micro-organisms. They have been widely used in the food and drug industry in their natural or synthetic forms. Numerous coumarins possess several biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcers, anti-tumour, anti-microbial, anti-coagulant. The aim of this study was to assess the bioactivity, and toxicity of coumarins from African medicinal plants.

Methods: We searched online databases and search engines such as PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science for key terms such as coumarins, toxicity, bioavailability, bioactivity with appropriate Boolean operators. Only full-length research articles published in English between 1956 to 2023 were reviewed.

Results: We recorded 22 coumarins from 15 plant species from Africa. Most of the plant species (33%) were from North Africa. These were followed by East Africa at 21%, then West, and Central Africa at 18.2% each. Most of the coumarins (21.3%) were isolated from the entire plant and the leaves (19.1%) and most of them (46.7%) had some antimicrobial activity. Five coumarins viz osthole, pseudocordatolide C & calanolide, chartreusin and esculetin had either antitumor or anticancer activity. Six coumarins had varying levels and types of toxicity ranging from inhibiting blood clotting as anticoagulants, to cytotoxic effects, causing hyperventilation, tremor, & photophobia, pulmonary haemorrhage, carcinogenic activity, severe neurotoxicity, hepato- and phototoxicity.

Conclusion: Several African medicinal plants are sources of various coumarins that possess several biological activities as well as toxicities. This calls for more research into their safety and efficacy because of their wide spread applications as therapeutic agents.
A bibliometric and visual analysis of the use of ustekinumab in Crohn’s disease using CiteSpace
Authors: Chen Yi , Zhang Jiaqi , Wu Junling , Zhang Hanwen , Luan Zhe , Zhao Zhizhuang , Li Congyong , Zhao Yiming , Zhang Hu , Wang Shufang , Sun Gang
Published: January 2024

Background: The novel biologic agent ustekinumab (UST), a monoclonal antibody against the p40 subunit of interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, has been applied in the treatment of Crohn’s disease (CD). With the development of relevant research, the clinical treatment and favorable prognosis of UST in CD have garnered considerable attention. However, there is a lack of reports that present the current status of UST-related studies in a comprehensive and objective manner. Consequently, this study aims to visually analyze the current status and clinical trends of UST-related research, identify leading researchers, and recognize deficiencies using bibliometrics and knowledge mapping, which might assist in understanding future research priorities in that specific field.

Methods: Published articles containing the use of UST in CD were retrieved from the Web of Science core collection database between 2008 and 2022. Then, the bibliometric analysis was performed, and a knowledge map was generated and visualized using the CiteSpace software.

Results: A total of 479 articles published between 2008 and 2022 were included in the bibliometric analysis. These publications were authored by 185 scholars from 51 countries or regions, among which the United States (38.3%), Canada (16.9%) and England (10.0%) were predominant in publishing. The keyword analysis indicated that UST has long been a popular biologic agent, and its clinical efficacy, safety, and indication for vulnerable populations in CD are popular research topics. The phrase “fecal calprotectin,” a biomarker reflecting the degree of disease activity and monitoring the therapeutic response, began to gain traction in 2020 and has continued to this day. Looking for UST-related biomarkers was gaining clinical attention.

Conclusion: The number of clinical studies involving the outcome of UST treatment in CD patients has increased, with the current research focusing on efficacy, safety, indications for vulnerable populations, therapeutic drug monitoring, and biomarkers. As an alternative drug after the failure of traditional immunosuppressive therapies or TNF-α antagonist therapy, UST is an effective and safe therapy in real-world refractory CD patients. UST will remain an active candidate for research in the treatment of CD.
Targeting p53 misfolding conundrum by stabilizing agents and their analogs in breast cancer therapy: a comprehensive computational analysis
Authors: Haq Burhan Ul , Qayoom Hina , Sofi Shazia , Jan Nusrat , Shabir Aisha , Ahmad Irshad , Ahmad Fuzail , Almilaibary Abdullah , Mir Manzoor A.
Published: January 2024

Cancer continues to be a major global public health concern and one of the foremost causes of death. Delays in the diagnosis and cure may cause an increase in advanced stage disease and mortality. The most common cancer found in women currently is breast carcinoma. Breast carcinoma has surpassed lung carcinoma and currently represents the chief type of cancer diagnosed (2.3 million new cases, which amount to 11.7% of all cancer cases). In addition, by 2040, the incidence will increase by more than 46% as per the estimates of GLOBOCAN. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a highly aggressive and invasive subtype of breast cancer, characterized by rapid progression, short response time to the available treatment, and poor clinical results. Thus, it is very crucial to develop novel diagnostic tools and therapeutics with good efficacy. A majority of cancers display malfunction along the p53 pathway. Moreover, p53 not only loses its function but is also prone to misfolding and aggregation, leading to formation of amyloid aggregates as well. Research is being carried out to find ways to restore the normal action and expression of p53. Here, we have explored PhiKan-083 for its possible stabilizing effect on p53 in order to address the problem with its misfolding. Thus, examining the analogs of PhiKan-083 that have a role in p53 stability will help update our understanding of cancer progression and may expedite the progress of new anticancer treatments. We anticipate that the drug molecules and their analogs targeting p53 aggregation may be used in combination with other anticancer compounds to solve the problem with p53 aggregation. In this study, by employing ADMET analysis, the compounds were screened, and we further examined the chosen compounds with the help of molecular docking. By using databases like UALCAN, TIMER, GEPIA, and PredictProtein, we investigated TP53’s expression pattern and prognostic relevance in various cancer settings.
Relatlimab: a novel drug targeting immune checkpoint LAG-3 in melanoma therapy
Authors: Su Jingjing , Fu Yiting , Cui Zitong , Abidin Zain , Yuan Jingsong , Zhang Xinmiao , Li Runmin , Zhao Chunzhen
Published: January 2024

Relatlimab is a type of human immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal blocking antibody. It is the world’s first Lymphocyte-Activation Gene-3 (LAG-3) inhibitor and the third immune checkpoint inhibitor with clinical application, following PD-1 and CTLA-4. Relatlimab can bind to the LAG-3 receptor which blocks the interaction between LAG-3 and its ligand to reduce LAG-3 pathway-mediated immunosuppression and promote T-cell proliferation, inducing tumor cell death. On 18 March 2022, the U.S. FDA approved the fixed-dose combination of relatlimab developed by Bristol Myers Squibb with nivolumab, under the brand name Opdualag for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma in adult and pediatric patients aged 12 and older. This study comprehensively describes the mechanism of action and clinical trials of relatlimab and a brief overview of immune checkpoint drugs currently used for the treatment of melanoma.
A review of defect mitigation strategies for UMG-Si wafers
Authors: Basnet Rabin , Macdonald Daniel
Published: January 2024

This review focuses on the challenges and potential pathways for utilizing upgraded metallurgical-grade silicon (UMG-Si) in the silicon photovoltaic industry. UMG-Si is an attractive low-cost alternative silicon feedstock, but its bulk quality is compromised due to the presence of defects and impurities. The review begins by identifying and discussing the various defects and impurities commonly found in UMG-Si wafers, drawing insights from a literature survey. The detrimental effects of these defects on solar cell performance are highlighted. Next, the review provides a summary of defect mitigation strategies that have been employed to improve the bulk quality of UMG-Si wafers. These strategies include tabula rasa, impurity gettering, and defect/impurity passivation through hydrogenation. The effectiveness of these strategies is evaluated by considering carrier lifetimes and comparing them with those of conventional silicon wafers. The review then examines the reported open-circuit voltages and efficiencies of solar cells based on UMG-Si wafers. A comparison is made between the performance of UMG-Si solar cells and those fabricated on conventional silicon. The impact of defect mitigation strategies on the performance of UMG-Si solar cells is discussed, emphasizing the improvements achieved through these strategies.
Conducting research with Indigenous Peoples in Canada: ethical and policy considerations
Authors: Morisano Dominique , Robinson Margaret , Rush Brian , Linklater Renee
Published: January 2024

The international context of Indigenous mental health and wellbeing has been shaped by a number of key works recognizing Indigenous rights. Despite international recognitions, the mental health and wellness of Indigenous Peoples continues to be negatively affected by policies that ignore Indigenous rights, that frame colonization as historical rather than ongoing, or that minimize the impact of assimilation. Research institutions have a responsibility to conduct ethical research; yet institutional guidelines, principles, and policies often serve Indigenous Peoples poorly by enveloping them into Western knowledge production. To counter epistemological domination, Indigenous Peoples assert their research sovereignty, which for the purposes of this paper we define as autonomous control over research conducted on Indigenous territory or involving Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous sovereignty might also be applied to research impacting the landscape and the web of animal and spiritual lives evoked in a phrase such as “all my relations.” This narrative review of material developed in the Canadian context examines the alignment with similar work in the international context to offer suggestions and a practice-based implementation tool to support Indigenous sovereignty in research related to wellness, mental health, and substance use. The compilation of key guidelines and principles in this article is only a start; addressing deeper issues requires a research paradigm shift.
Motivation crowding effects on the intention for continued use of gamified fitness apps: a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Huang Jialiang , Chen Jiang , Zhou Liyun
Published: January 2024

It has become an emerging idea for fitness apps to be gamified to intrinsically and extrinsically motivate user’s usage intention or behavior. For the long-term success of gamified fitness apps, understanding what and how various motivations affect continued use is critical. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies was used to explore two research questions concerning gamified fitness applications. Specifically, the research questions focused on understanding the impacts of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations on continued usage. Additionally, the study aimed to investigate whether extrinsic motivations enhance or diminish the influence of intrinsic motivations. Results from qualitative study identified three intrinsic motivations (self-development, self-control and hedonic motivation) and two extrinsic motivations (social recognition and financial reward) in gamified fitness apps. Results from quantitative study indicated that intrinsic motivations (formed by self-development, self-control and hedonic motivation), financial reward and social recognition could significantly improve intention for continued use; and further, both financial reward and social recognition could crowd-in intrinsic motivations. This research offers insights into the phenomenon of motivation crowding effects on the intention to continue using gamified fitness apps.
Fluid teams in the metaverse: exploring the (un)familiar
Authors: Jarvenpaa Sirkka L. , Keating Elizabeth
Published: January 2024

The metaverse is a new and evolving environment for fluid teams and their coordination in organizations. Fluid teams may have no prior familiarity with each other or working together. Yet fluid teams are known to benefit from a degree of familiarity–knowledge about teams, members, and working together–in team coordination and performance. The metaverse is unfamiliar territory that promises fluidity in contexts–seamless traversal between physical and virtual worlds. This fluidity in contexts has implications for familiarity in interaction, identity, and potentially time. We explore the opportunities and challenges that the metaverse presents in terms of (un)familiarity. Improved understandings of (un)familiarity may pave the way for new forms of fluid team experiences and uses.
Assessing cortical features in early stage ASD children
Authors: Napolitano Antonio , Guerrera Silvia , Lucignani Martina , Parrillo Chiara , Baldassari Giulia , Bottino Francesca , Moltoni Giulia , Espagnet Maria Camilla Rossi , Talamanca Lorenzo Figà , Valeri Giovanni , Vicari Stefano
Published: January 2024

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder largely investigated in the neurologic field. Recently, neuroimaging studies have been conducted in order to investigate cerebral morphologic alterations in ASD patients, demonstrating an atypical brain development before the clinical manifestations of the disorder. Cortical Thickness (CT) and Local Gyrification Index (LGI) distribution for ASD children were investigated in this study, with the aim to evaluate possible relationship between brain measures and individual characteristics (i.e., IQ and verbal ability). 3D T1-w sequences from 129 ASD and 58 age-matched Healthy Controls (HC) were acquired and processed in order to assess CT and LGI for each subject. Intergroup differences between ASD and HC were investigated, including analyses of 2 ASD subgroups, split according to patient verbal ability and IQ. When compared to HC, ASD showed increased CT and LGI within several brain areas, both as an overall group and as verbal ability an IQ subgroups. Moreover, when comparing language characteristics of the ASD subjects, those patients with verbal ability exhibit significant CT and LGI increase was found within the occipital lobe of right hemisphere. No significant results occurred when comparing ASD patients according to their IQ value. These results support the hypothesis of abnormal brain maturation in ASD since early childhood with differences among clinical subgroups suggesting different anatomical substrates underlying an aberrant connectivity.
Chinese translation and validation of the Near-Death Experience Content scale
Authors: Li Yan , Chen Yan , Martial Charlotte , Shen Mingquan , Cassol Héléna , Yu Jing , Zhou Xingyue , Ni Chengcheng , Li Meiqi , Hu Nantu , Gosseries Olivia , Laureys Steven , Di Haibo
Published: January 2024

Introduction

In recent years, a growing number of near-death experience (NDE) testimonies have been collected worldwide due to an increasing interest in research on this phenomenon. China has many patients who survive life-threatening situations, leaving over much data on NDEs to be collected for research. In the historical context of Eastern civilization, many mentally controlled practices in China can also lead to “NDEs-like” (e.g., meditation). This study aimed (1) to translate and validate the recently developed Near-Death Experience Content (NDE-C) scale into Chinese and (2) to quantify and identify NDEs and NDEs-like in China with this new Chinese version of the NDE-C scale.

Methods

Here, we presented the work that had been performed to translate the NDE-C scale into Chinese and validated this version on 79 NDE testimonies.

Results

Brislin’s back-translation model was performed to translate a Chinese version of the NDE-C scale and internal consistency (the Cronbach’s α value for the total group = 0.846) as well as the confirmatory factor analysis was conducted.

Discussion

Currently, the Chinese version of the NDE-C scale is ready for use in research practice in the context of Eastern culture, to screen people who have experienced an NDEs(-like) and to quantify their subjective experience, promoting further NDEs-related research in China.
Prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation in the general public during the fifth wave of COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong
Authors: Lo Heidi Ka Ying , Chan Joe Kwun Nam , Wong Corine Sau Man , Wong Gabbie Hou Sem , Lei Janet Hiu Ching , So Yuen Kiu , Fung Vivian Shi Cheng , Chu Ryan Sai Ting , Ling Rachel , Chung Albert Kar Kin , Lee Krystal Chi Kei , Cheng Calvin Pak Wing , Chan Wai Chi , Chang Wing Chung
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Literature reveals increased suicidal ideation in the general population during pandemic. However, few COVID-19 studies comprehensively assessed factors associated with suicidal ideation, and mixed findings were observed. We aimed to examine prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation in general public during the peak of fifth COVID-19 wave in Hong Kong based on a broad array of relevant measures.

Methods

This survey assessed 14,709 community-dwelling adults during March 15–April 3, 2022. Comprehensive assessment was administered including socio-demographics, pre-existing mental/physical morbidity, mental-health symptoms, resilience, loneliness, coping strategies, and pandemic-related factors. Presence of suicidal ideation was evaluated by ratings of item 9 on Patient-Health-Questionnaire-9.

Results

A total of 2,249 (15.3%) participants exhibited suicidal ideation. Multivariable-regression analysis found that being single and unemployed, pre-existing mental disorder, more severe depressive and anxiety symptoms, higher levels of loneliness and engagement in avoidant coping were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Conversely, attaining tertiary educational level or above, greater resilience and adopting problem-focused coping were associated with lower likelihood of suicidal ideation. Although univariate-analyses revealed that a number of pandemic-related factors were linked to suicidal ideation, none remained significant in the multivariable model.

Conclusion

A significant proportion of people experienced suicidal ideation during the peak of fifth COVID-19 wave. Risk and protective factors identified would facilitate early identification of high-risk individuals and provision of targeted interventions to minimize suicidal ideation and risk of self-harm. Caution should be exercised due to study limitations of a cross-sectional design which precluded establishing causality among variables, and reliance on self-reported data.
A paradoxical switch: the implications of excitatory GABAergic signaling in neurological disorders
Authors: McArdle Colin J. , Arnone Alana A. , Heaney Chelcie F. , Raab-Graham Kimberly F.
Published: January 2024

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. In the mature brain, inhibitory GABAergic signaling is critical in maintaining neuronal homeostasis and vital human behaviors such as cognition, emotion, and motivation. While classically known to inhibit neuronal function under physiological conditions, previous research indicates a paradoxical switch from inhibitory to excitatory GABAergic signaling that is implicated in several neurological disorders. Various mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to the excitatory switch such as chloride ion dyshomeostasis, alterations in inhibitory receptor expression, and modifications in GABAergic synaptic plasticity. Of note, the hypothesized mechanisms underlying excitatory GABAergic signaling are highlighted in a number of neurodevelopmental, substance use, stress, and neurodegenerative disorders. Herein, we present an updated review discussing the presence of excitatory GABAergic signaling in various neurological disorders, and their potential contributions towards disease pathology.
Changes of intuition in paranoid personality disorder
Authors: Jacobs Kerrin Artemis
Published: January 2024

Wherever psychopathology operates with the concept of (disorders of) the self and personality, it can address the role of the intuitive access we have toward ourselves, others, and the world. This study discusses the concept of oikeiôsis. It examines its role in explaining paranoia as a change in intuitive self-and-world relatedness. In the first step, symptomatic features of paranoid personality disorder are sketched, with a focus on the explanatory role of attentional and interpretative biases, which correlate with significant changes in intuitive processing. In the second step, the prototypical phenomenality of feelings of unfamiliarity and mistrust are discussed against the backdrop of changes of oikeiôsis in paranoid personality disorder. In the third step, the main therapeutic challenge in treating paranoid personality disorder—building a trustful relationship—is explored. It is concluded that the notion of oikeiôsis resonates particularly with introspection-based therapeutic approaches.
Friluftsliv literacy—a contribution to physical literacy for health throughout the life course
Authors: Sæther Eivind , Lyngstad Idar
Published: January 2024

This article illuminates and discusses the concept “friluftsliv literacy” in relation to physical literacy for health throughout the life course. A literal translation into English of “friluftsliv” would be “free-air life” – or “outdoor life.” We obtained stories and interview data from older adult people who could help us by providing insights into friluftsliv literacy through a number of life phases. The research questions were: What can describe friluftsliv literacy from the perspective of experienced friluftsliv practitioners and generate understandings of friluftsliv literacy from childhood to old age, and how can friluftsliv literacy contribute to the conceptualization of physical literacy for health throughout the life course? We designed the study according to a constructionist research tradition and followed six analytical phases of reflexive thematic analysis of the interview data. We developed four themes from the data material and argue that friluftsliv literacy includes an existential phenomenological and idealist dimension in the way it offers a view on the active subject in friluftsliv through the various life phases and promotes nature experiences through the whole life. Moreover, friluftsliv literacy promotes “pure” friluftsliv experiences based on internal motivation and desire, voluntariness, and freedom. We also argue that throughout the life course friluftsliv literacy promotes important social values, especially within family contexts, social values that enhance the quality of life. Friluftsliv literacy also includes a pragmatic dimension and contributes to the conceptualization of physical literacy for health in the way that it promotes people learning to like friluftsliv at a young age, an attitude that can then be nurtured and maintained throughout one’s entire life by practising friluftsliv and adapting to individual capacities and life phases.
Association between systemic immune-inflammatory index and diabetes mellitus: mediation analysis involving obesity indicators in the NHANES
Authors: Chen Yongze , Huang Ruixian , Mai Zhenhua , Chen Hao , Zhang Jingjing , Zhao Le , Yang Zihua , Yu Haibing , Kong Danli , Ding Yuanlin
Published: January 2024

Background

Inflammation and obesity have been widely recognized to play a key role in Diabetes mellitus (DM), and there exists a complex interplay between them. We aimed to clarify the relationship between inflammation and DM, as well as the mediating role of obesity in the relationship.

Methods

Based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2018. Univariate analyses of continuous and categorical variables were performed using t-test, linear regression, and χ2 test, respectively. Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between Systemic Immune-Inflammatory Index (SII) or natural logarithm (Ln)-SII and DM in three different models. Mediation analysis was used to determine whether four obesity indicators, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), visceral adiposity index (VAI) and lipid accumulation product index (LAP), mediated the relationship between SII and DM.

Results

A total of 9,301 participants were included, and the levels of SII and obesity indicators (BMI, WC, LAP, and VAI) were higher in individuals with DM (p < 0.001). In all three models, SII and Ln-SII demonstrated a positive correlation with the risk of DM and a significant dose–response relationship was found (p-trend <0.05). Furthermore, BMI and WC were associated with SII and the risk of DM in all three models (p < 0.001). Mediation analysis showed that BMI and WC mediated the relationship between SII with DM, as well as Ln-SII and DM, with respective mediation proportions of 9.34% and 12.14% for SII and 10.23% and 13.67% for Ln-SII (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that increased SII levels were associated with a higher risk of DM, and BMI and WC played a critical mediating role in the relationship between SII and DM.
Simulating cardiac signals on 3D human models for photoplethysmography development
Authors: Wang Danyi , Chahl Javaan
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Image-based heart rate estimation technology offers a contactless approach to healthcare monitoring that could improve the lives of millions of people. In order to comprehensively test or optimize image-based heart rate extraction methods, the dataset should contain a large number of factors such as body motion, lighting conditions, and physiological states. However, collecting high-quality datasets with complete parameters is a huge challenge.

Methods: In this paper, we introduce a bionic human model based on a three-dimensional (3D) representation of the human body. By integrating synthetic cardiac signal and body involuntary motion into the 3D model, five well-known traditional and four deep learning iPPG (imaging photoplethysmography) extraction methods are used to test the rendered videos.

Results: To compare with different situations in the real world, four common scenarios (stillness, expression/talking, light source changes, and physical activity) are created on each 3D human. The 3D human can be built with any appearance and different skin tones. A high degree of agreement is achieved between the signals extracted from videos with the synthetic human and videos with a real human-the performance advantages and disadvantages of the selected iPPG methods are consistent for both real and 3D humans.

Discussion: This technology has the capability to generate synthetic humans within various scenarios, utilizing precisely controlled parameters and disturbances. Furthermore, it holds considerable potential for testing and optimizing image-based vital signs methods in challenging situations where real people with reliable ground truth measurements are difficult to obtain, such as in drone rescue.
Cultivating a greener plate: understanding consumer choices in the plant-based meat revolution for sustainable diets
Authors: Erfanian Sahar , Qin Shengze , Waseem Liaqat Ali , Dayo Muneer Ahmed
Published: January 2024

The implementation of sustainable food systems on a global scale is of utmost importance in order to effectively achieve sustainable diet goals on a world level. Plant-based meat alternatives offer potential replacements for meals derived from animals and serve as a means to transition toward more environmentally sustainable dietary choices. Therefore, in the quest for sustainable diets, comprehending consumer behavior and preferences within the context of the plant-based meat revolution is crucial. The current study is planned to examine the factors that influence the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives among Chinese people. For this purpose, data collected from 610 individuals through an online survey was analyzed using the partial least square structural equation model. The findings reveal that consumer perceptions, particularly regarding taste, nutrition values, and texture, were found to have a significant impact on the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives. Effective promotional strategies, availability, and accessibility also play a vital role in influencing consumer preferences for plant-based meat alternatives. The outcomes regarding the significance of health perception and environmental concern in transforming consumer preferences for plant-based meat alternatives are also highlighted. Consumers prioritize plant-based meat alternatives due to their perceived health benefits and favorable environmental impact. Moreover, consumer satisfaction, rooted in meeting or exceeding expectations, signifies the mediating role in the relationship between consumer perceptions and the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives, which boosts the plant-based meat alternatives’ acceptance. Furthermore, the findings underline the mediating role of environmental attitude in the relationship between environmental concerns and plant-based meat alternatives’ acceptance, emphasizing the importance of sustainable dietary choices. In general, these findings provide valuable insights into the promotion of sustainable dietary choices, the alignment of consumer behavior with environmentally conscious decisions, and transforming the food systems in light of changing consumer behavior and ecological concerns.
Specification Mining Based on the Ordering Points to Identify the Clustering Structure Clustering Algorithm and Model Checking
Authors: Fan Yiming , Wang Meng
Published: January 2024

Software specifications are of great importance to improve the quality of software. To automatically mine specifications from software systems, some specification mining approaches based on finite-state automatons have been proposed. However, these approaches are inaccurate when dealing with large-scale systems. In order to improve the accuracy of mined specifications, we propose a specification mining approach based on the ordering points to identify the clustering structure clustering algorithm and model checking. In the approach, the neural network model is first used to produce the feature values of states in the traces of the program. Then, according to the feature values, finite-state automatons are generated based on the ordering points to identify the clustering structure clustering algorithm. Further, the finite-state automaton with the highest F-measure is selected. To improve the quality of the finite-state automatons, we refine it based on model checking. The proposed approach was implemented in a tool named MCLSM and experiments, including 13 target classes, were conducted to evaluate its effectiveness. The experimental results show that the average F-measure of finite-state automatons generated by our method reaches 92.19%, which is higher than most related tools.
Optimizing the Total Spikelets Increased Grain Yield in Rice
Authors: Liu Kun , Zhang Kaixi , Zhang Yu , Cui Jiarong , Li Zhikang , Huang Jian , Li Shouguo , Zhang Jingli , Deng Shan , Zhang Yiying , Huang Jingyan , Ren Li , Chu Yunxia , Zhao Hong , Chen Hairong
Published: January 2024

Maximizing rice yield potential has always been the focus of high-yield rice cultivation research. For high-yield rice cultivation and breeding, more research into the link between yield and yield components is essential. In this experiment, 38 rice varieties with different yield types and 185 rice varieties as materials were chosen. The relationships between yield and yield components were studied. The regulation effects of total nitrogen application rate (TNAR) on yield and yield components were observed. The results showed that (1) the grain yield of high-yield varieties was 189.3−195.6%, 76.1−77.7%, and 27.0−28.7% higher than that of super-low-yield, low-yield, and medium-yield varieties, respectively. Compared with rice varieties with other yield types, rice varieties with high-yield type have a higher total number of spikelets. (2) The spikelet number per panicle and total number of spikelets were significantly positively linked with grain yield, but significantly negatively correlated with filled grains and grain weight. (3) With an increase in TNAR (0−340 kg ha−1), the panicles, spikelet number per panicle, and total spikelets of rice varieties with different yield types increased gradually, and the filled grains and grain weight decreased gradually. The higher the TNAR, the more obvious the decrease in filled grains and grain weight. The grain yield of rice varieties with different yield types was the highest under the TNAR at 250 kg ha−1. The main factor contributing to its high yield was the substantial increase in total spikelets. The above results showed that increasing the spikelet number per panicle and total spikelets played a material role in improving rice yield.
Survey of Mycobacterium spp. in Eurasian Badgers (Meles meles) in Central Italy
Authors: Tieri Elga Ersilia , Marino Lucio , Zilli Katiuscia , Pompilii Cinzia , Di Teodoro Giovanni , Cocco Antonio , Ruberto Addolorato , Toro Michela , Mastrodomenico Maria Teresa , Salucci Stefania , De Massis Fabrizio
Published: January 2024

A survey to determine the presence of Mycobacterium spp. in the Abruzzo and Molise regions was conducted by testing samples from 124 badgers found dead or road-killed during the 2013–2021 period. Head lymph nodes were collected from all carcasses, as well as mediastinal lymph nodes from 20 of them, for bacteriological and molecular tests; tissues were inoculated onto a set of solid egg-based Lowenstein–Jensen media and in a liquid culture system (BACTEC) and were analyzed by polymerase chain reactions (PCRs). Organs and lymph nodes from 31 carcasses were collected for histological tests. During post-mortem examinations, macroscopic lesions consistent with a Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections were not detected. Mycobacteria were isolated from four animals (3.22%). M. avium subsp. avium was isolated by head lymph nodes from two badgers (1.61%), M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis (0.80%) from one, and Mycobacterium spp. from another (0.80%). The significance of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in wildlife hosts in the absence of clinical signs and gross pathology has yet to be assessed. The most critical aspect came from isolates belonging to the Mycobacterium avium complex infection in wildlife due to the possible interference with tuberculin skin tests in cattle.
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor and Oxidative Stress in Tendon Degeneration: A Molecular Perspective
Authors: Shahid Hamzah , Morya Vivek Kumar , Oh Ji-Ung , Kim Jae-Hyung , Noh Kyu-Cheol
Published: January 2024

Tendinopathy is a debilitating condition marked by degenerative changes in the tendons. Its complex pathophysiology involves intrinsic, extrinsic, and physiological factors. While its intrinsic and extrinsic factors have been extensively studied, the role of physiological factors, such as hypoxia and oxidative stress, remains largely unexplored. This review article delves into the contribution of hypoxia-associated genes and oxidative-stress-related factors to tendon degeneration, offering insights into potential therapeutic strategies. The unique aspect of this study lies in its pathway-based evidence, which sheds light on how these factors can be targeted to enhance overall tendon health.
Integration of Active Clothing with a Personal Cooling System within the NGIoT Architecture for the Improved Comfort of Construction Workers
Authors: Dąbrowska Anna , Kobus Monika , Sowiński Piotr , Starzak Łukasz , Pękosławski Bartosz
Published: January 2024

Intense physical activity and high ambient temperature cause construction workers to be exposed to an increased risk of overheating, especially in the summer season. Personal cooling systems have great potential to support workers’ thermoregulation and reduce this risk. In particular, solutions based on the thermoelectric effect can provide high cooling effectiveness and ergonomics at the same time. In this paper, a newly developed active clothing solution with flexible thermoelectric modules intended for outdoor activities is presented. The active clothing was subjected to utility tests on a treadmill under laboratory conditions with the participation of potential end users. A comparison of results from cooled and uncooled places indicated a reduction in local skin temperature of as much as 2.7 °C. Moreover, a gradual decrease in temperature in the uncooled place during the experiment was observed. Based on the positive results from this evaluation, the personal cooling system was integrated into active clothing within the ASSIST-IoT NGIoT reference architecture. This allows contextual and personalized adjustment of the cooling power to be provided using AI techniques and, additionally, by using data from a weather station and a smartwatch. Training procedures and models for the AI system are proposed, with special attention paid to the privacy aspect.